Pumpkin Scones

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that wraps you in the warm flavors of fall, these Pumpkin Scones are just what you need. They are wonderfully simple to whip up and bring that delightful pumpkin spice aroma into your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, enjoying a quiet afternoon with tea, or just treating yourself after a busy day, these scones are sure to be a hit.

What makes this recipe even more special is how versatile it is. You can enjoy them fresh from the oven or save some for later. Trust me, once you take a bite of these fluffy scones drizzled with vanilla glaze, you’ll understand why they’ve become one of my all-time favorites.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These pumpkin scones come together in no time—perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous gatherings.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of cinnamon and pumpkin spice creates an irresistible flavor that screams autumn.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good scone! They’re great for kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake fresh scones when you’re ready.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment! Add nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips for a fun twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these scones is part of the fun! You’ll find that they’re simple and wholesome staples that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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

One of the things I love about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize these pumpkin scones to suit your taste. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Incorporate dried fruit: Try adding raisins or cranberries for a sweet surprise in every bite.
• Experiment with spices: Swap out pumpkin pie spice for other favorites like nutmeg or cardamom to change up the flavor profile.
• Make them savory: For a unique twist, add cheese and herbs instead of sweetness!

How to Make Pumpkin Scones

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined. This step ensures that all those lovely spices are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 2: Cut in Butter

Add the diced butter to your dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or two forks (or even a food processor if you’re feeling fancy) to cut the butter into the dry ingredients. You’re aiming for crumbly bits where the butter resembles pea-sized chunks; this will give your scones their flaky texture.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time to add the pumpkin purée, buttermilk (or milk), and vanilla extract. Gently stir everything together with a spatula until just combined—it’s essential not to over-mix here! Overworking can lead to tough scones instead of light and fluffy ones.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Transfer your dough onto a floured surface. Gently fold it over on itself a few times; it should hold together but remain slightly sticky. Pat it down into an 8-inch circle and slice it into eight wedges with a sharp knife.

Step 5: Chill Before Baking

Place the wedges onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Pop the baking sheet into the freezer for about 15 minutes while you heat your oven to 425°F—this will help keep your scones nice and flaky during baking.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Brush each scone lightly with buttermilk before moving them to bake in the preheated oven. Let them bake for about 13-15 minutes until they turn lightly golden on top. Once done, transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly.

Step 7: Drizzle with Glaze

To finish off these delicious pumpkin scones, whisk together powdered sugar with buttermilk and vanilla until smooth. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar until you achieve your desired consistency. Drizzle or brush this delightful glaze over your cooled scones—then sit back and enjoy!

These Pumpkin Scones are sure to become a favorite tradition in your home! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Scones

Making pumpkin scones can be a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll be sure to impress your friends and family!

• Use cold butter: The colder your butter, the flakier your scones will be. This helps create those delightful layers that we all love in a good scone.

• Don’t over-mix the dough: Gently stirring until just combined prevents tough scones. Overworking the dough can activate the gluten in the flour, leading to dense results.

• Chill the dough: Placing the shaped scones in the freezer for 15 minutes before baking enhances their texture and helps them maintain their shape while baking.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add personal touches by including different spices like nutmeg or ginger. This can elevate the flavor profile and make your scones uniquely yours!

• Brush with buttermilk: A light brushing of buttermilk on top before baking gives your scones a beautiful golden color and an appealing shine.

How to Serve Pumpkin Scones

These pumpkin scones are perfect for a cozy afternoon gathering or a delightful breakfast treat. Present them on a lovely platter alongside complementary items for an inviting touch.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze for added crunch and flavor.
• Cinnamon sugar: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar adds sweetness and enhances the pumpkin spice flavor.
• Fresh herbs: A few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme can add an aromatic contrast that brightens up the dish.

Side Dishes

• Chai tea: The warm spices in chai tea pair beautifully with pumpkin flavors, making it a comforting beverage choice.
• Apple cider: A glass of warm apple cider complements the autumnal vibe perfectly, enhancing the cozy experience.
• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like pears, apples, or berries adds freshness and balances the richness of the scones.
• Yogurt parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit offers a creamy contrast to the scones, making for a well-rounded meal.

Enjoy crafting these delicious pumpkin scones! Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or savoring them solo with your morning coffee, they are sure to bring warmth and joy to your day.

Make Ahead and Storage

These pumpkin scones are perfect for meal prep, making them a delightful treat to have on hand throughout the week. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack, you can easily store or freeze them to keep the flavors fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for about a week.

Freezing

• Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Place the wrapped scones in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, simply bake the scones at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• If reheating from room temperature, just pop them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes for that freshly baked taste.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some frequently asked questions about these delicious pumpkin scones.

Can I substitute pumpkin purée with something else in my Pumpkin Scones?

Yes! If you don’t have pumpkin purée on hand, you can use other pureed vegetables like butternut squash or sweet potato as a substitute. Just ensure they’re well-pureed and have a similar consistency to pumpkin purée.

What makes these Pumpkin Scones special?

This recipe stands out because it combines warm spices with cozy pumpkin flavors, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for fall. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and topped with a light vanilla glaze that elevates their flavor!

How do I make my Pumpkin Scones fluffier?

To achieve fluffier scones, be careful not to overmix the dough. Mix just until combined, and ensure your baking powder is fresh. The cold butter also contributes to a flaky texture—so don’t skip that step!

How should I serve Pumpkin Scones?

These pumpkin scones can be enjoyed plain or drizzled with the light vanilla glaze provided in the recipe. Pair them with your favorite tea or coffee for a lovely breakfast or afternoon snack.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful pumpkin scones as much as I do! They’re not just tasty but also fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas that scream cozy autumn vibes. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this scrumptious recipe. Happy baking!