Pumpkin Scones

If you’re looking for a cozy treat to brighten your fall days, these Pumpkin Scones are just what you need! The comforting flavors of pumpkin and warm spices come together beautifully in this easy recipe. Whether you’re whipping them up for a busy weekday breakfast or sharing them at a family gathering, they never fail to bring smiles. Plus, the cream cheese frosting takes them to another level of deliciousness that everyone will adore.

These scones are soft and tender, with just the right amount of sweetness. They’re also super simple to make, so you can enjoy freshly baked goodness in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delightful scones ready to enjoy.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves warm scones! They make the perfect treat for kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them in advance and store them for busy mornings or surprise guests.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a comforting taste that screams fall!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need to create these delightful Pumpkin Scones!

For the Scones

• 2 1/2 cup flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (firmly packed)
• 1 Tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ginger
• 1/2 cup cold butter (cut)
• 1 cup pure pumpkin
• 4 Tablespoon milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

For the Frosting

• 2 Tablespoon butter
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon maple flavoring
• dash salt

For the Topping

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 Tablespoon milk
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 Tablespoon milk
• 1 Tablespoon pure pumpkin puree
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger

Variations

This Pumpkin Scones recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your preferences!

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Try different spices: Experiment with cardamom or allspice for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
• Make it vegan: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of an egg.

How to Make Pumpkin Scones

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees. This ensures that your scones bake evenly and rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. By mixing these dry ingredients first, you allow the baking powder and spices to distribute evenly throughout the dough.

Step 3: Cut in Butter

Next, cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter until it’s mixed in and resembles pea-sized crumbs. This step is crucial because small pieces of butter help create flaky layers in your scones.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the pure pumpkin, milk, and egg. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your scone dough.

Step 5: Fold Together

Slowly fold the pumpkin mixture into the dry ingredients until it forms a soft dough ball. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle in more flour until it reaches that perfect consistency.

Step 6: Shape Your Dough

Turn out the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently about five or six times until smooth. Then flatten it into a round circle about ½ inch thick.

Step 7: Cut into Triangles

Using a pizza cutter or knife, cut your dough circle into eight triangle-shaped pieces. This makes it easy to separate them before baking.

Step 8: Bake

Place your scones on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. You’ll know they’re done when they smell amazing!

Now that you’ve made these scrumptious Pumpkin Scones, you’re ready to add a little sweetness with cream cheese frosting or enjoy them plain—either way is absolutely delightful!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Scones

Making the perfect pumpkin scones is all about technique and a little love in the kitchen. Here are some tips to ensure your scones turn out wonderfully every time!

• Use cold ingredients: Keeping your butter and other dairy products cold helps create a flaky texture. This is key to achieving that light and fluffy scone we all love.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough scones. Just fold your ingredients until combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps!

• Chill the dough: If you have time, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld together and enhances the texture.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your preferences! A little extra nutmeg or ginger can add a delightful kick that makes these scones uniquely yours.

• Experiment with add-ins: While chocolate chips are delicious, you can also consider adding nuts, dried cranberries, or even sunflower seeds for added texture and flavor.

How to Serve Pumpkin Scones

Presenting your pumpkin scones in an inviting way can elevate their appeal! Here are some delightful ideas for serving them at your next gathering or cozy breakfast at home.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A dash of cinnamon on top right before serving enhances the warm, spiced aroma of the scones.
• Fresh herbs: Garnish with a sprig of rosemary or thyme for an unexpected herbal contrast that beautifully complements the pumpkin flavor.

Side Dishes

• Warm apple cider: This classic fall beverage pairs perfectly with pumpkin scones, bringing out their spicy notes.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a refreshing side that balances the richness of the scones.
• Fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like pears, apples, and pomegranates adds freshness and brightness to your plate.
• Herbal tea: Serve with a cup of soothing herbal tea such as chamomile or chai for a comforting afternoon treat.

Enjoy these pumpkin scones with loved ones or savor them during quiet moments—either way, they promise warmth and delight!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Scones are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their deliciousness throughout the week! Whether you’re making them for breakfast or an afternoon treat, knowing how to store and reheat them will keep them fresh and delightful.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the scones to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap each cooled scone tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped scones in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months—just label with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• If they are at room temperature, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Scones:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and puree your fresh pumpkin well before using it in the recipe for best results.

How do I make my Pumpkin Scones fluffier?

For fluffier scones, be careful not to overmix the dough. The key is to gently combine the wet and dry ingredients just until mixed.

What can I add to my Pumpkin Scones?

You can customize your Pumpkin Scones by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even dried fruits such as cranberries. Chocolate chips also make a delightful addition!

How should I serve Pumpkin Scones?

These scones are delightful on their own or topped with cream cheese frosting. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee!

Can I make these Pumpkin Scones gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup to create a delicious gluten-free version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Pumpkin Scones as much as I do! They’re not only scrumptious but also bring a cozy autumn vibe into your kitchen. Feel free to get creative with variations, and don’t forget to share them with loved ones—they’re sure to be a hit! Happy baking!