Pumpkin Scones

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Pumpkin Scones

This pumpkin scones recipe is a delightful way to celebrate the season. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, these scones are incredibly easy to whip up and are drizzled with a light vanilla glaze. The cozy pumpkin flavors make them a standout treat for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual coffee dates.

Pumpkin Scones
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
  • Deliciously Cozy: The blend of pumpkin and spices creates a warm, comforting flavor that embodies the essence of autumn.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these scones on their own, with coffee, or as part of a brunch spread; they fit any occasion.
  • Customizable Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite spices or mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for a personalized touch.
  • Impressive Presentation: Drizzled with a light vanilla glaze, these scones look as good as they taste, making them perfect for entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your pumpkin scones, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Pastry cutter (or forks)
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

  • Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows for easy mixing of all your ingredients without spilling.
  • Pastry cutter: This tool helps achieve the right crumbly texture by cutting cold butter into the dry ingredients efficiently.
  • Baking sheet: Ensures even baking and browning of your scones when lined with parchment paper.

Ingredients

This pumpkin scones recipe is quick and easy to make, drizzled with a light vanilla glaze, and full of the best cozy pumpkin flavors.

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

Glaze Ingredients

  • 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

How to Make Pumpkin Scones

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until evenly combined.

Step 2: Cut in Butter

Add the diced butter and use a pastry cutter or two forks (or a food processor) to cut the butter evenly into the dry ingredients until the mixture is crumbly with pea-sized chunks of butter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add in the pumpkin purée, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Use a spatula to gently stir until no dry streaks remain. Avoid over-mixing to keep your scones tender.

Step 4: Form Dough

Turn the mixture onto a flour-dusted surface. Fold the dough over itself until it holds together. Pat it down flat into an 8-inch circle. Slice into 8 equal wedges using a large knife or bench scraper.

Step 5: Chill Scones

Transfer the wedges to a parchment-covered baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart. Freeze for about 15 minutes while heating your oven to 425°F.

Step 6: Bake Scones

Brush each scone’s top with buttermilk. Bake for 13-15 minutes until lightly golden on top. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool.

Step 7: Prepare Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the glaze ingredients until smooth. Adjust consistency with more powdered sugar if needed. Brush or drizzle over cooled scones before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pumpkin Scones

Pumpkin scones are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack, there are plenty of ways to enhance your experience.

With Coffee

  • Pair with a warm cup of coffee for a cozy morning routine.
  • A latte or cappuccino complements the flavors beautifully.

With Tea

  • Enjoy with a soothing herbal or chai tea to balance the sweetness.
  • The spices in both drinks harmonize well.

Drizzled with Glaze

  • Add extra glaze on top for an indulgent finish.
  • This sweet touch enhances the pumpkin flavor even more.

Topped with Butter

  • Spread a little butter on a warm scone for added richness.
  • Use flavored butter like cinnamon or honey for variety.

Alongside Fresh Fruit

  • Serve with slices of apple or pear for a refreshing contrast.
  • The natural sweetness of fruit pairs well with the scones.

With Whipped Cream

  • Top each scone with a dollop of whipped cream for extra decadence.
  • Consider adding a sprinkle of nutmeg on top for flair.
Pumpkin

How to Perfect Pumpkin Scones

To achieve the best pumpkin scones, keep these tips in mind. They will help you create light, fluffy, and flavorful treats every time.

  • Use cold butter: Cold butter helps create flakiness in the scone. Dice it before adding to the dry ingredients.
  • Don’t overmix: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to keep the scones tender. Overmixing can lead to tough scones.
  • Chill before baking: Chilling the dough helps maintain shape and enhances texture during baking. Freeze shaped scones for about 15 minutes before oven time.
  • Brush with buttermilk: Brushing the tops with buttermilk gives them a beautiful golden color and adds moisture.
  • Experiment with spices: Feel free to add more spices like ginger or cardamom for additional flavor depth.
  • Store properly: Keep cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days for maximum freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Scones

Pumpkin scones can be a standalone delight, but they also pair well with various side dishes that complement their flavor profile. Here are some great options:

  1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brightens up your plate and adds freshness.
  2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast to the scone’s texture.
  3. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or cream cheese provide a savory balance to sweet scones.
  4. Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche offers protein and complements the sweetness of pumpkin nicely.
  5. Granola Bars: These tasty bars can be served alongside your scone as an energy boost throughout your day.
  6. Autumn Soup: A warm bowl of butternut squash soup pairs perfectly as a comforting side dish during chilly months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin scones can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

  • Boldly measuring ingredients: Always measure your flour and sugar accurately. Too much flour can make the scones dense. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method for best results.
  • Boldly over-mixing the dough: Be gentle when combining the wet and dry ingredients. Over-mixing can lead to tough scones. Mix just until combined to maintain a light texture.
  • Boldly skipping the chill time: Don’t skip chilling the dough before baking. This helps the scones rise properly and results in a flakier texture. A quick 15-minute chill in the freezer is recommended.
  • Boldly neglecting oven preheating: Always preheat your oven to 425°F before baking. This ensures even cooking and that your scones rise properly right from the start.
  • Boldly ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold butter is crucial for flaky scones. Make sure your butter is very cold, as this helps create steam during baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store pumpkin scones in an airtight container.
  • They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
  • Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Pumpkin Scones

  • Allow scones to cool completely before freezing.
  • Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
  • They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Scones

  • Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place scones on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
  • Bold Microwave: Heat one scone at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
  • Bold Stovetop: Warm in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making pumpkin scones.

How do I make my Pumpkin Scones lighter?

To keep your pumpkin scones light, avoid over-mixing the dough when you combine wet and dry ingredients. This will help maintain their fluffy texture.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pumpkin Scones?

Yes! You can replace regular milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. You might also substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar for a different flavor.

What can I add to my Pumpkin Scones?

Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for added flavor and texture. Spices like nutmeg or ginger work well too!

How do I store leftover Pumpkin Scones?

Store leftover pumpkin scones in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for up to three days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make these Pumpkin Scones ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it. Just slice it into wedges, freeze them raw, then bake directly from frozen when you’re ready!

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin scones are perfect for cozy fall mornings or as an afternoon treat. Their delightful flavors are sure to impress family and friends alike. Feel free to customize them with various spices or add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts! Enjoy making this delicious recipe!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Pumpkin Scones

Pumpkin Scones


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 8 scones 1x

Description

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these irresistible pumpkin scones drizzled in a creamy vanilla glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, this easy-to-follow recipe takes just 45 minutes from start to finish. The combination of warm spices and pumpkin creates a comforting delight that will impress friends and family alike. Customize them with your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for a personal touch. Enjoy these scrumptious scones with coffee, tea, or as part of your holiday spread!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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 cold salted butter, diced
  • 3/4 cup pumpkin purée
  • 1/3 cup buttermilk (plus extra for brushing)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the glaze: 1/2 cup powdered sugar, buttermilk, and vanilla

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
  3. Cut in cold butter until crumbly with pea-sized chunks.
  4. Stir in pumpkin purée, buttermilk, and vanilla gently until combined.
  5. Turn dough onto a floured surface; pat into an 8-inch circle and cut into wedges.
  6. Freeze wedges for 15 minutes before baking.
  7. Bake scones for 13–15 minutes until golden; cool on a wire rack.
  8. Prepare glaze by whisking ingredients together; drizzle over cooled scones.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 scone (60g)
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

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