Follow these clear steps to create your delicious scones:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well blended.
3. Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the milk and vanilla extract. Mix well.
5. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Add Optional Mix-ins: If desired, gently fold in any add-ins such as chocolate chips or dried fruit.
7. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick.
8. Cut into Wedges: Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 wedges and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are lightly golden.
10. Cool: Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

These easy instructions make scone baking fun and approachable, ensuring you achieve delicious results with minimal fuss.