Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well combined.

Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract (if using). Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.

Gently fold in the mixed dried fruit until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. You can also roll the dough out if you prefer. Cut the circle into wedges (like a pizza) or use a round cutter for individual scones.

Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one. If desired, brush the tops with milk or egg wash for a golden finish.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top and cooked through.

Remove the scones from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy with butter, jam, or clotted cream!