Pumpkin Scones

If you’re looking for the perfect treat to welcome the cozy vibes of fall, look no further than these Pumpkin Scones! They are soft, flavorful, and just the right amount of sweet. Whether it’s for a lazy Saturday morning brunch or a festive gathering with friends, these scones are sure to warm hearts and fill bellies. Plus, who can resist a little cream cheese frosting on top? Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it a staple in your kitchen!

These Pumpkin Scones are not only delicious but also easy to whip up. They are perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you’ll have freshly baked scones in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the warm spices and sweet flavors.
• Perfect for any occasion: These scones shine at breakfast, dessert, or even as an afternoon snack.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time and store them for those busy mornings!
• Deliciously comforting: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a cozy flavor that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! You’ll be pleased to know that they are simple and wholesome. Here’s what you’ll need to bring these delightful Pumpkin Scones to life:

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 into pieces)
• 1 cup pure pumpkin
• 4 Tablespoon milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

For the Cream Cheese 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

One of the best parts about baking is how flexible recipes can be! Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices such as cardamom or allspice for a unique twist.
• Go fruity: Add dried cranberries or raisins to bring in a burst of sweetness.
• Glaze instead of frosting: For a lighter option, drizzle some glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over your scones.

How to Make Pumpkin Scones

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 400 degrees. This ensures that your scones bake evenly and come out deliciously golden.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Mixing these dry ingredients well creates the base flavor profile for your scones.

Step 3: Cut in Butter

Now it’s time to add in the cold butter. Use a pastry cutter to cut in the butter until it resembles pea-sized pieces. This step is crucial for achieving that tender scone texture we all love!

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the pure pumpkin, milk, and egg until smooth. This mixture will add moisture and richness to your dough.

Step 5: Fold It All Together

Slowly fold the pumpkin mixture into your dry ingredients until combined. If you’re adding chocolate chips (and who wouldn’t want some?), now’s the time! Don’t worry if it seems sticky; that’s part of its charm!

Step 6: Knead Gently

Turn your dough out onto a floured surface. Knead it gently about 5-6 times until smooth. Flatten it into a round circle about ½ inch thick—this will help ensure they bake evenly.

Step 7: Cut into Wedges

Using a pizza cutter (or knife), cut your circle into 8 triangle-shaped scones. This way they’re easy to share!

Step 8: Bake Away!

Place your scones on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper and pop them in the oven for about 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Now that you’ve made these delightful Pumpkin Scones, enjoy them fresh out of the oven or let them cool before adding that scrumptious cream cheese frosting! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Scones

Making the perfect pumpkin scones is all about attention to detail and a bit of love in the kitchen. Here are some pro tips to ensure your scones turn out delightful every time:

• Use cold ingredients: Keeping your butter and milk cold helps create a flaky texture. Cold butter, when mixed with flour, creates steam as it melts during baking, resulting in light, airy scones.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Gently folding the pumpkin mixture into the dry ingredients prevents gluten from developing too much, which can lead to tough scones. Aim for a soft dough that holds together without excessive kneading.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste! Adding a pinch more cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the fall flavor and make your scones even more aromatic.

• Chill before baking: If you have time, chilling the shaped scones for about 15 minutes before baking can help them hold their shape better and bake more evenly.

• Check doneness carefully: Ovens can vary significantly in temperature. Keep an eye on your scones towards the end of the baking time; they should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

How to Serve Pumpkin Scones

These delicious pumpkin scones are not just tasty—they’re also incredibly versatile! Here are some fun ideas on how to present them:

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy contrast that elevates each bite.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: Dusting some cinnamon sugar on top before baking gives a delightful crunch and sweetness.
• Chopped nuts: Adding crushed pecans or walnuts on top before baking provides an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits like apples and pears complements the spiced flavors of the scones beautifully.
• Herbal tea: Pairing these scones with a warm cup of herbal tea creates a cozy afternoon treat that’s perfect for chilly days.
• Yogurt parfait: Serve alongside layers of yogurt, granola, and berries for a healthy twist that balances out the sweetness of the scones.
• Cheese platter: Offering a selection of soft cheeses can create an interesting flavor profile when paired with your pumpkin scones, making for a delightful brunch experience.

Enjoy these pumpkin scones as part of your fall festivities or cozy mornings at home. They’re sure to become a beloved addition to your recipe collection!

Make Ahead and Storage

These delightful Pumpkin Scones are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week, whether as a quick breakfast or a sweet treat with your afternoon tea.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the scones to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each cooled scone individually in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped scones in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat frozen scones in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• If reheating from room temperature, simply bake at the same temperature for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these Pumpkin Scones:

Can I make Pumpkin Scones without butter?

Absolutely! You can substitute butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. The scones will still turn out delicious!

How do I ensure my Pumpkin Scones are moist?

Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling. Also, don’t overmix the dough; just combine until it forms a soft ball!

What can I add to Pumpkin Scones for extra flavor?

Feel free to mix in nuts like walnuts or pecans, or dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins for added texture and taste.

How should I serve Pumpkin Scones?

These Pumpkin Scones are delightful on their own, but you can also serve them with cream cheese frosting, maple syrup drizzle, or even a dollop of whipped coconut cream!

Are Pumpkin Scones suitable for breakfast?

Yes! These scones make an excellent breakfast option, especially when paired with coffee or tea. Enjoy them warm for a cozy start to your day.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin Scones as much as I do! They embody the warmth and flavors of fall and make any moment feel special. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or saving some for later, these scones are sure to bring joy to your table. Happy baking!