Pumpkin Scones
If you’re looking for the perfect treat to warm your heart and home this autumn, these Pumpkin Scones are just what you need! Soft, fluffy, and infused with cozy pumpkin flavors, they make a delightful addition to any breakfast table or afternoon tea. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee, these scones bring a little bit of magic to every occasion.
What makes this pumpkin scones recipe especially special is its combination of simplicity and deliciousness. With just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up a batch that’s sure to impress everyone around you. Trust me when I say that once you try these scones, they will become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can have these pumpkin scones ready in just 45 minutes! Perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
- Deliciously Cozy Flavor: The warmth of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice brings all the comfort of fall in every bite.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet flavor and soft texture—ideal for sharing!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake them ahead of time, freeze them, and enjoy freshly baked scones whenever the craving strikes!
- Customizable Glaze: The light vanilla glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness that you can adjust to your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these scrumptious pumpkin scones, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 cup very cold salted butter,* diced or grated
- 3/4 cup pumpkin purée
- 1/3 cup buttermilk (or milk), plus extra for brushing
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 to 3 teaspoons buttermilk (or milk)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ginger or cardamom
Variations
This pumpkin scones recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or additions based on your preferences:
- Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
- Spice it Up: Mix in some chopped fresh ginger for an added zing!
- Chocolate Chips: Fold in dark chocolate chips for a sweet twist on traditional flavors.
- Dried Fruit: Add dried cranberries or raisins for a burst of fruity sweetness.
How to Make Pumpkin Scones
Step 1: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and fine sea salt until everything is evenly combined. This step is crucial because it helps distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the flour mixture.
Step 2: Cut in the Butter
Add the diced butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or two forks (or even a food processor if you prefer) to cut the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with no pieces larger than pea-sized. This technique ensures your scones will be light and flaky!
Step 3: Mix in Pumpkin & Liquids
Next up, add in the pumpkin purée, buttermilk (or milk), and vanilla extract. Using a spatula, gently stir until no dry streaks remain—be careful not to over-mix as this could make your scones tough.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Turn out the sticky dough onto a floured surface. Fold it over itself gently a few times until it holds together well enough to form a ball. Pat it down flat into an 8-inch circle before slicing it into 8 equal wedges using a large knife or bench scraper.
Step 5: Freeze & Prepare for Baking
Transfer your wedges onto a parchment-covered baking sheet while keeping them at least 2 inches apart. Pop them into the freezer for about 15 minutes as you preheat your oven to 425°F. Chilling helps keep their shape while baking!
Step 6: Brush & Bake
Briefly brush each scone with buttermilk before placing them into the oven. Bake for about 13–15 minutes until they’re lightly golden on top and cooked through. Once done, let them cool on a wire rack—it’s hard to resist their tempting aroma!
Step 7: Drizzle with Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar with buttermilk (or milk) and vanilla extract until smooth. If it’s too thin, simply add more powdered sugar until reaching your desired consistency. Once your scones have cooled slightly, brush or drizzle this delightful glaze over them—and voila! Ready to serve and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Scones
Making pumpkin scones can be a delightful experience, and a few handy tips can take your baking to the next level!
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Use cold ingredients: Keeping your butter and buttermilk very cold helps create a flaky texture in the scones. Warm ingredients can lead to denser scones that don’t rise as well.
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Don’t over-mix the dough: Gently combine the ingredients just until no dry streaks remain. Over-mixing can develop gluten, which may result in tough scones instead of the light, tender texture we desire.
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Chill the dough: Allowing your shaped scones to chill in the freezer for about 15 minutes before baking helps them hold their shape and creates a better rise in the oven.
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Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite warm spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, for an extra flavor kick. This can make your pumpkin scones uniquely yours and tailored to your taste preferences.
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Brush with buttermilk before baking: A light brush of buttermilk on top of each scone helps achieve that beautiful golden color while adding moisture right where you want it!
How to Serve Pumpkin Scones
These pumpkin scones are not only delicious on their own but can be beautifully presented to impress family and friends! Here are some ideas on how to serve this cozy treat.
Garnishes
- Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Cinnamon sugar: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar adds sweetness and a lovely hint of spice.
- Fresh herbs: A sprig of rosemary or thyme can provide a surprising herbal element that complements the sweetness of pumpkin beautifully.
Side Dishes
- Hot apple cider: The warm spices in apple cider create a comforting beverage pairing that enhances the fall flavors of your scones.
- Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like pears, apples, and pomegranates brightens up your plate, adding freshness alongside the richness of the scones.
- Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy side dish that offers a nice contrast to the soft texture of the pumpkin scones.
- Coffee or chai latte: A warm cup of coffee or spiced chai makes for an ideal accompaniment, enhancing the overall cozy experience.
Enjoy your homemade pumpkin scones with these delightful garnishes and side dishes for a truly enjoyable treat!
Make Ahead and Storage
This pumpkin scones recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making them a delightful treat whenever you need a cozy snack or breakfast option.
Storing Leftovers
- Store cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator where they’ll last about a week.
Freezing
- Freeze unbaked scone wedges on a parchment-lined baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Alternatively, freeze baked scones in an airtight container for the same duration. Just ensure they are fully cooled before freezing.
Reheating
- Reheat frozen baked scones directly from the freezer in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through.
- For unbaked frozen scones, bake straight from the freezer, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about making pumpkin scones.
Can I use whole wheat flour for pumpkin scones?
Yes! You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Just note that this may change the texture slightly.
What makes this pumpkin scones recipe special?
This pumpkin scones recipe stands out due to its rich spices and delightful vanilla glaze, creating a comforting flavor that perfectly captures autumn’s essence.
How do I make my pumpkin scones more flavorful?
To boost the flavor of your pumpkin scones, consider adding nuts or dried fruit. Additionally, experimenting with spices like nutmeg or ginger can elevate their taste!
Can I make these pumpkin scones vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use non-dairy milk instead of buttermilk to create delicious vegan pumpkin scones.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making these delightful pumpkin scones as much as I do! With their warm spices and sweet glaze, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether it’s for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a cozy gathering with friends, these scones are perfect for any occasion. Happy baking!
Pumpkin Scones
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the warmth of autumn with these delightful Pumpkin Scones! Soft, fluffy, and infused with the cozy flavors of pumpkin and warm spices, they are a perfect addition to any breakfast table or afternoon tea. These scones are quick and easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy mornings or unexpected guests. The gentle sweetness paired with a light vanilla glaze creates a comforting treat that everyone will love. Plus, they’re versatile—feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for personal touches. Once you try these pumpkin scones, they’ll surely become a beloved staple in your home!
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 cup very cold salted butter, diced
- 3/4 cup pumpkin purée
- 1/3 cup buttermilk (or milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- 1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- 2. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- 3. Stir in pumpkin purée, buttermilk, and vanilla until just combined.
- 4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface; gently shape into an 8-inch circle and cut into wedges.
- 5. Freeze for 15 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- 6. Brush with buttermilk and bake at 425°F for 13–15 minutes until golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone (80g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
