Pumpkin Scones

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of fall, these Pumpkin Scones are just the ticket! They’re fluffy, flavorful, and come together in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, they make a delightful breakfast or an afternoon snack that everyone will love. Plus, the light vanilla glaze adds just the right touch of sweetness to these already scrumptious scones.

Every bite of these Pumpkin Scones is like a hug in pastry form. Whether you’re sipping coffee on a chilly morning or sharing them with friends at a cozy gathering, they bring a little slice of autumn to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for those busy days when you want something delicious without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore the soft texture and pumpkin spice flavor—these scones are sure to please everyone!
• Flexible Ingredients: Use what you have on hand! You can easily swap out spices or add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These scones freeze beautifully. Make a batch ahead of time, and enjoy fresh-baked goodness whenever the craving strikes.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices and pumpkin creates a comforting taste that’s perfect for autumn but enjoyable year-round!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For these delicious Pumpkin Scones, you’ll need simple and wholesome ingredients you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything to create this delightful treat!

Dry 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 teaspoon fine sea salt

Wet Ingredients

• 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

For the Glaze

• 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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or additions to make it your own.

• Add Some Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Try different spices such as nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist on the classic flavor profile.
• Chocolate Lovers Delight: Mix in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
• Fruity Twist: Add dried cranberries or raisins for a pop of sweetness and chewiness in each bite.

How to Make Pumpkin Scones

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until evenly combined. This is where all those lovely flavors start to come together!

Step 2: Cut in Butter

Add the diced cold butter into your dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or two forks (or even a food processor), cut the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized chunks. This step ensures your scones will be tender and flaky!

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time to add in the pumpkin purée, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Gently stir with a spatula until there are no dry streaks left. Be careful not to over-mix; we want our scones light and fluffy.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and fold it over itself gently until it holds together—don’t worry if it’s slightly sticky! Pat it into an 8-inch circle and slice into 8 equal wedges using a sharp knife.

Step 5: Chill Before Baking

Transfer your wedges onto a parchment-covered baking sheet with at least 2 inches between each one. Pop them into the freezer for about 15 minutes while preheating your oven to 425°F. This helps them rise beautifully!

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Brush the tops of each scone with buttermilk before baking them for about 13-15 minutes. They should be lightly golden on top when done! Transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly.

Step 7: Drizzle That Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together your glaze ingredients until smooth. Once your scones have cooled just enough (but still warm!), drizzle or brush that sweet glaze over the top. Serve them up warm and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Scones

Baking pumpkin scones can be a delightful experience, and a few tips can elevate them to perfection!

• Use chilled ingredients: Starting with cold butter and buttermilk helps create a flaky texture in your scones. The cold fat creates steam as it bakes, leading to that perfect rise.

• Don’t over-mix the dough: Gently mixing until just combined ensures your scones are tender. Overworking the dough can lead to tough scones, which we want to avoid!

• Try different spices: While this recipe includes cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice, experimenting with nutmeg or cardamom can add unique flavors that enhance the overall taste.

• Freeze before baking: Chilling the cut scone wedges before baking helps maintain their shape and allows for better texture. It’s a little extra step that yields great results!

• Store properly: To keep your scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for later enjoyment!

How to Serve Pumpkin Scones

Serving pumpkin scones is all about presentation and creating a cozy atmosphere. Here are some ideas to make your dish even more inviting!

Garnishes

• Cinnamon Sugar: A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top adds sweetness and warmth, enhancing the fall flavors.
• Chopped Nuts: Walnuts or pecans offer a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft texture of the scone.
• Fresh Herbs: A sprig of rosemary or thyme can add a surprising twist and beautiful color contrast.

Side Dishes

• Spiced Chai Latte: This warm beverage complements the pumpkin flavors perfectly, creating a cozy pairing for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
• Apple Slices with Almond Butter: Fresh apple slices bring a crisp contrast to the softness of the scone while almond butter adds creaminess and healthy fats.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and cranberries for a refreshing side that balances the richness of the scones.
• Creamy Pumpkin Soup: For a heartier meal, serve alongside a bowl of creamy pumpkin soup. The flavors will harmonize beautifully, making it an ideal autumnal feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

These pumpkin scones are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance, store them, or even freeze them for later. Enjoying fresh scones throughout the week has never been easier!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the scones to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2 days.

Freezing

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

Reheating

• For best results, thaw the scones overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for 15-20 seconds, but this may make them a bit softer.

FAQs

If you’re wondering more about pumpkin scones, here are some common questions:

Can I use canned pumpkin purée for my Pumpkin Scones?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin purée is a convenient option that works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure it’s pure pumpkin with no added ingredients.

What makes these Pumpkin Scones so special?

These pumpkin scones are not only quick and easy to make, but they also feature cozy fall flavors with a delightful vanilla glaze. They’re perfect for any autumn gathering or just a cozy morning at home.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Scones are done baking?

Your pumpkin scones are done when they turn lightly golden on top and spring back slightly when touched. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean as well.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delicious pumpkin scones as much as I do! The warm spices and comforting flavors truly capture the essence of fall. Don’t hesitate to share your baking experience or any variations you try; I’d love to hear all about it! Happy baking and enjoy every bite of this cozy treat!