Follow these easy steps to create your authentic English scones that are sure to delight:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in Butter: Add the chilled, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, whole milk, and vanilla extract until well mixed.
5. Make the Dough: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir with a spatula until a soft dough forms. If adding dried fruits or cheese, fold them in at this stage.
6. Shape the Scones: Lightly flour a clean surface and turn out the dough. Pat it into a 1-inch thick circle. Use a sharp knife or a round cutter to cut out scones, re-forming and re-rolling the dough as needed to maximize your yield.
7. Transfer to Baking Sheet: Place the cut scones onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top.
9. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly on the baking sheet. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

These straightforward steps will help you create perfectly baked authentic English scones that are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside.