As the days grow shorter and a crispness fills the air, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven, replete with the warm, inviting aroma of baking. Nothing welcomes fall like Easy Pumpkin Scones with Pumpkin Glaze, a delightful twist on a classic breakfast treat. These scones are not only a breeze to whip up, but they also offer the perfect balance of sweet pumpkin goodness and comforting spices, making them a wonderful companion for your morning coffee or afternoon tea. Moist on the inside yet crisp on the outside, they’re the ideal indulgence to savor during this festive season. Curious to learn how to create this seasonal delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why choose pumpkin scones?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, and spices creates a delightful blend that captures the essence of fall. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these scones can be whipped up in no time. Perfect Pairing: Enjoy them warm with a cup of coffee or tea, making every breakfast cozy. Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings or a special treat, they are sure to impress family and friends. Make Ahead: You can freeze the scones before baking, ensuring fresh delights are always at hand. Treat yourself to these delectable Pumpkin Scones this fall!
Pumpkin Scones Ingredients
For the Scones
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure; can substitute with gluten-free flour for a different texture.
• Baking powder – Essential leavening agent; ensure freshness for the best rise.
• Fine sea salt – Balances the sweetness; table salt can be used as an alternative.
• Baking soda – Adds additional leavening to help the scones rise.
• Ground cinnamon – Imparts warm spiciness; pumpkin pie spice can enhance the flavor profile.
• Ground ginger – Provides warmth and a bit of zest to the scones.
• Ground nutmeg – Elevates the pumpkin flavor, adding depth.
• Ground cloves – Offers a rich and complex taste.
• Light brown sugar – Contributes sweetness and moisture; granulated sugar can be a substitute.
• Unsalted butter (cold and cubed) – Ensures flakiness; keeping it cold is key; coconut oil can replace it for a vegan option.
• Canned pumpkin puree – Adds moisture and delicious pumpkin flavor; you can use homemade puree too.
• Buttermilk or heavy cream – This adds richness; regular milk works in a pinch.
• Large eggs – Provides structure and moisture; consider an egg substitute for a vegan scone.
For the Glaze
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens the glaze; it’s a must for that sweet finish.
• Milk – Helps achieve your desired glaze consistency, easy to adjust as needed.
• Cinnamon (for glaze) – Adds an additional layer of flavor to the icing, tying in the scone’s spice profile.
Try these Pumpkin Scones for a delightful fall treat that will warm your heart and home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Pumpkin Scones with Pumpkin Glaze
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves. This blend will create the perfect foundation for your Pumpkin Scones, ensuring an aromatic and flavorful kick as you start your recipe.
Step 2: Cut in Butter
Next, take ½ cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter and use a pastry blender to cut it into the dry mixture. Continue blending until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces. This technique will create the desirable flakiness in your scones, essential for that soft and tender inside — an inviting feature of your flavorful Pumpkin Scones.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate glass bowl, whisk together 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, ½ cup of buttermilk, and 1 large egg until smooth. This mixture adds moistness and richness, enhancing the scone’s texture. Pour this delicious blend into the well created in your dry ingredients, ensuring a thorough incorporation with a gentle hand to avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Form the Dough
Transfer your slightly sticky dough to a floured surface, being careful not to overwork it. Pat the dough into a rectangle about 1-inch thick and then fold it like a letter; repeat this folding process two more times. This technique will help develop layers in your Easy Pumpkin Scones, contributing to an airy, flaky texture that is a delight to bite into.
Step 5: Shape and Cut
Using a sharp knife, cut the folded dough into rounds or wedges, depending on your preference for the scone shape. Place the cut pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them some space to rise during baking. This step ensures even baking and allows the scones to develop their golden, crisp exterior.
Step 6: Freeze Before Baking
To maximize flakiness, freeze the shaped scones for about 15 minutes while you preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This chilling step helps the scones maintain their shape as they bake, resulting in a wonderfully structured Easy Pumpkin Scone you and your family will love.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
After freezing, remove the scones from the freezer and brush the tops with an egg wash made from the remaining egg mixed with a tablespoon of water for that perfect golden sheen. Bake them in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will fill with a delightful aroma, hinting at the goodness of your Pumpkin Scones.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
While your scones are baking, mix together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree, a splash of milk, and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon in a bowl until smooth. Adjust the milk to reach your desired glaze consistency, creating a sweet finish to drizzle over your beautiful Easy Pumpkin Scones.
Step 9: Glaze and Serve
Once the scones have cooled for a few minutes, generously drizzle the pumpkin glaze over the warm scones. This sweet touch elevates the flavors and adds a lovely finishing shine. Serve these delightful Pumpkin Scones warm alongside your favorite coffee or tea for a perfect fall-inspired treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Scones are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough and shape the scones up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the formed scones with plastic wrap and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked scones for up to 1 month. Just be sure to space them out on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra 2 minutes to the baking time for perfect, fresh scones just like homemade. Enjoy your cozy mornings with these delectable treats!
Pumpkin Scones: Delicious Customization Ideas
Feel free to get creative with these Pumpkin Scones and tailor them to your taste preferences!
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Spice Twist: Add pumpkin pie spice instead of just cinnamon for a deeper flavor or a dash of cardamom for an exotic touch. The fragrant spices will enhance the cozy atmosphere in your kitchen.
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Nutty Addition: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts to give your scones a delightful crunch and an extra boost of flavor. The nutty texture pairs perfectly with the soft scone crumb.
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Vegan-Friendly: Swap out butter for coconut oil and use almond milk or another plant-based milk to accommodate a vegan diet. You won’t miss the dairy one bit!
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Chocolate Delight: Add mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite. This twist will make your Pumpkin Scones even more irresistible during those chilly fall mornings.
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Fruit-Filled: Incorporate some dried cranberries or raisins to add a chewy texture and a hint of sweetness. They blend beautifully with the pumpkin spice flavor.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make these scones accessible for those with dietary restrictions while still keeping that delectable texture.
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Lower Sugar Variant: Substitute some sugar with applesauce for a lower-calorie option that still retains moisture and flavor. You may even like the fruity twist it adds!
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Savory Version: For a unique twist, consider adding cheddar cheese and fresh herbs like chives. This savory take is lovely for brunch or as an accompaniment to soups.
Feel free to explore all these variations and give your Pumpkin Scones a personal touch. Whether you like them sweet or savory, experimenting is part of the fun! You can always experiment with other flavors and textures, too. If you decide to take your taste buds on an adventure, don’t forget to try our delicious Classic Pumpkin Pie with a Flaky Homemade Crust as a festive dessert option!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Scones
Fridge: Store your Pumpkin Scones in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a cozy breakfast or snack.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy scones later, freeze the unbaked shaped scones for up to 1 month. Just remember to add an extra 2 minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to bake!
Reheating: To warm up previously baked scones, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5–7 minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Wrapping: For optimal freshness, individually wrap each scone in plastic wrap before freezing. This prevents freezer burn and preserves their delightful pumpkin flavor.
What to Serve with Easy Pumpkin Scones with Pumpkin Glaze
Pair these delightful scones with a few carefully chosen accompaniments that enhance their deliciousness and elevate your breakfast experience.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture balances the scone’s sweetness, creating a comforting plate for a festive brunch.
- Maple Bacon: Sweet and savory bacon adds depth and pairs beautifully with the scone’s warm spices; it’s a breakfast classic!
- Spiced Apple Cider: Warm apple cider, infused with cinnamon and cloves, complements the pumpkin flavor while enveloping your senses in fall’s embrace.
- Whipped Cream Cheese: A velvety spread brings a luscious tang to every bite, balancing the sweetness of the scone with creamy goodness.
- Mixed Berry Salad: Fresh berries provide a bright, tangy contrast to the pumpkin warmth, making each mouthful a delightful taste adventure.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or peppermint tea offers a calming contrast to the scone’s warmth, enhancing your cozy experience.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Lean into the fall vibe with this iconic coffee drink, which plays up the scone’s flavors and makes every sip a celebration.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Offering a chewy texture with bursts of sweetness, they make a playful dessert to follow your scone breakfast.
- Cinnamon Roll Casserole: A warm, gooey cinnamon roll dish adds a rich flavor contrast that plays well with the pumpkin spice in the scones.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Scones
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Chill Your Butter: Keep the butter extremely cold before cutting it into the dry ingredients. This ensures a flaky texture in your Pumpkin Scones.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough scones instead of tender, flaky ones.
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Freezing Options: If you’d like to make these scones ahead of time, freeze the shaped scones before baking. Just add an extra 2 minutes to the baking time.
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Egg Wash for Shine: Brushing the tops of the scones with an egg wash gives them a beautiful golden color after baking. Don’t skip this step for that perfect finish!
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Measure Accurately: Using a kitchen scale for measurements, especially for flour, will yield the best results. This ensures your Pumpkin Scones have the perfect texture every time.
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Customize Your Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom for unique flavors. Personalize your Pumpkin Scones to make them truly yours!
Pumpkin Scones Recipe FAQs
What kind of pumpkins are best for making scones?
Absolutely! For perfect Pumpkin Scones, use canned pumpkin puree made from sugar pumpkins (also referred to as pie pumpkins). They are sweeter and less watery compared to regular pumpkins, giving your scones that rich, delicious flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own puree from roasted sugar pumpkins, just make sure to drain any excess liquid!
How should I store my Pumpkin Scones, and for how long?
To keep your Pumpkin Scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need them to last longer, you can refrigerate them, but make sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
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Can I freeze the unbaked Pumpkin Scones?
Very! To freeze unbaked scones, shape them and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 1 hour until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time!
What if my scone dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels sticky after mixing, this might be due to environmental factors like humidity. Simply add a little more flour, about a tablespoon at a time, until the dough is manageable enough to pat into a rectangle. Remember, it’s crucial not to overmix; this ensures your scones stay tender and flaky!
Are these Pumpkin Scones suitable for those with nut allergies?
Yes! The ingredients listed for these Pumpkin Scones are nut-free, so they should be suitable for most nut allergies. However, always double-check labels on packaged ingredients such as baking powder and buttermilk. For a vegan option, you can replace the eggs with a suitable substitute like flaxseed meal mixed with water.
Can I make these Pumpkin Scones gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum to mimic the structure that gluten provides. You’ll still achieve those tender and flaky Pumpkin Scones that everyone loves!
Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin Scones with Sweet Pumpkin Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, fine sea salt, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves.
- Cut in cold, cubed butter into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, buttermilk, and egg until smooth. Pour into the well of dry ingredients and mix gently.
- On a floured surface, pat the sticky dough into a rectangle about 1-inch thick and fold it like a letter, repeat two more times.
- Shape the dough into rounds or wedges and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze the shaped scones for about 15 minutes while preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Brush tops with an egg wash and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
- Mix together powdered sugar, pumpkin puree, a splash of milk, and cinnamon in a bowl until smooth to make the glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over warm scones and serve with coffee or tea.
