Pumpkin Scones

If you’re looking for the perfect cozy treat to warm up your autumn afternoons, these Pumpkin Scones are just what you need! With that delightful blend of pumpkin spice and a drizzle of sweet vanilla glaze, they bring all the comforting flavors of fall right to your kitchen. This recipe is not only quick and easy to whip up, but it’s also great for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea or serve them at brunch, these scones are sure to become a favorite in your home.

What makes this recipe special is how simple it is! You don’t need any fancy tools or techniques—just a mixing bowl and some basic ingredients. So grab your apron and let’s dive into making these delicious Pumpkin Scones together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 45 minutes, making it a perfect choice for those busy days.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin purée and warm spices creates a scone that’s bursting with cozy autumn flavors.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves these scones! They’re a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert, these scones fit any time of day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delightful Pumpkin Scones, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; you probably have most of them in your pantry already!

For the Scones

• 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

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 Pumpkin Scones recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors or toppings.

• Add Chocolate Chips: Toss in some dairy-free chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cloves for added warmth.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for some extra texture.
• Glaze Alternatives: Swap the vanilla glaze for a maple syrup drizzle for a unique flavor.

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 everything is evenly combined. This step is crucial as it ensures that all those delicious spices are distributed throughout your scone mixture.

Step 2: Incorporate the Butter

Add the diced butter into the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Aim for pea-sized chunks; this will help create that flaky texture we love in scones!

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, fold in the pumpkin purée, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Use a spatula to gently mix everything together until no dry streaks remain. Be careful not to over-mix; we want tender scones!

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Turn your dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently fold it over on itself until it comes together as a ball (don’t worry if it’s slightly sticky). Pat it down into an 8-inch circle and slice into 8 wedges using a sharp knife.

Step 5: Chill Before Baking

Transfer those lovely wedges to a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they have room to grow. Pop them in the freezer while preheating your oven to 425°F. Chilling helps them rise beautifully during baking!

Step 6: Brush and Bake

After about 15 minutes in the freezer, brush each scone with buttermilk before placing them in the oven. Bake for 13-15 minutes until they’re golden on top. Your kitchen will smell amazing during this time!

Step 7: Glaze and Enjoy!

Once cooled slightly on a wire rack, whisk together your glaze ingredients until smooth. Drizzle it over your warm scones and voila! Serve them up warm and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Scones

Making pumpkin scones can be a delightful experience, especially when you have some handy tips to ensure they turn out perfectly!

• Use cold ingredients: Start with very cold butter and buttermilk. This helps create a flaky texture in the scones, making them light and airy.

• Don’t over-mix the dough: Gently mix until just combined to avoid tough scones. Over-mixing develops gluten, which can lead to dense scones instead of the tender ones we desire.

• Chill before baking: Freezing the cut scones for a short time before baking helps them maintain their shape and rise nicely in the oven.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preference. Adding extra ginger or cardamom can give an exciting twist to the classic flavor.

• Check for doneness: Keep an eye on your scones while they bake. Ovens can vary, so checking at the minimum time ensures they won’t overbake and lose that soft interior.

How to Serve Pumpkin Scones

These pumpkin scones are not only delicious but also versatile in how you present them. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast or an afternoon treat, there are plenty of ways to make them shine!

Garnishes

• Drizzle of glaze: A simple drizzle of the vanilla glaze adds sweetness and a beautiful finish.
• Sprinkle of cinnamon: A light dusting of ground cinnamon enhances the autumn flavors.
• Chopped nuts: Adding chopped walnuts or pecans gives a crunchy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the soft scone.

Side Dishes

• Warm apple cider: The natural sweetness and spice from apple cider complement the pumpkin flavor beautifully, creating a comforting beverage pairing.
• Herbal tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea, such as chai or chamomile, balances out the richness of the scones while providing warmth.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad brings brightness to your table and cuts through the richness of the scones with its acidity.
• Yogurt with honey: Creamy yogurt topped with a drizzle of honey offers a delightful contrast in texture and adds a tangy note that pairs well with sweet pastries.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your pumpkin scones will not only taste amazing but also look incredible on any table. Enjoy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These pumpkin scones are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve their deliciousness.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator where they’ll last up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the scones to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Frozen scones can last up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re well sealed!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat scones in an oven set to 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• You can also microwave them for about 15-20 seconds, but be cautious as they can become chewy if overheated.

FAQs

Have questions? Here are some common ones about this delightful recipe!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned in pumpkin scones?

Absolutely! Just ensure you cook and purée the pumpkin until smooth. This will give your scones that lovely pumpkin flavor.

How do I make my pumpkin scones more flavorful?

To amp up the flavor, consider adding extra spices like nutmeg or ginger. A sprinkle of pecans or walnuts can also add a wonderful crunch!

What should I serve with pumpkin scones?

These delightful treats pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or even a cozy spiced chai. Enjoy them as a breakfast option or a sweet afternoon snack!

Can I customize the glaze for my pumpkin scones?

Yes! Feel free to mix in different flavors like maple syrup or almond extract into the glaze for a fun twist.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these cozy pumpkin scones! They’re not just a treat; they’re a warm hug on a plate, perfect for those chilly autumn mornings. Enjoy sharing (or keeping!) these delightful bites, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors that resonate with you. Happy baking!