Pumpkin Scones

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to welcome the cozy fall season, these Pumpkin Scones are just what you need! They are soft, flavorful, and topped with a creamy frosting that adds the perfect finishing touch. I love making these scones for busy mornings because they’re quick to whip up and absolutely delicious. Whether it’s a family gathering, a brunch with friends, or just a little indulgence for yourself, these scones will surely bring joy to any occasion.

As the leaves change colors and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like enjoying freshly baked Pumpkin Scones with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a seasonal favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These Pumpkin Scones come together in just 35 minutes! Perfect for when you’re short on time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves these sweet treats! They’re great for kids and adults alike.
• Flexible Recipe: Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients—there’s room for creativity!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast or dessert, these scones fit right in.
• Delicious Flavor: The warm spices and rich pumpkin make for an irresistible combination.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these delightful Pumpkin Scones. You might already have many of these items in your pantry!

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

For the Frosting

• 2 Tablespoon butter
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon maple flavoring
• dash salt

For the Pumpkin Spice Drizzle

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Swap the Chocolate Chips: Use white chocolate chips or dried cranberries instead for a different taste.
• Make Them Mini: Shape smaller scones if you prefer bite-sized treats; just adjust baking time accordingly.
• Change Up the Spices: Experiment with other spices like cardamom or allspice to make it your own.

How to Make Pumpkin Scones

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your scones bake evenly and develop that lovely golden color we all love.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Mixing dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the dough.

Step 3: Cut in Butter

Next, cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter until it resembles small peas. This step is key—it creates those tender layers in each scone that make them so light and fluffy.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together pure pumpkin, milk, and egg until smooth. This mixture brings moisture and rich flavor to our scone dough.

Step 5: Fold Together

Slowly fold the pumpkin mixture into your dry ingredients until combined. If you’re adding chocolate chips now is the time! You want everything just mixed without overworking the dough.

Step 6: Form Dough

Transfer your dough onto a floured surface. Knead gently about five or six times until smooth—this helps develop gluten but be careful not to over-knead!

Step 7: Shape & Cut

Flatten dough into a circle about half an inch thick. Using a pizza cutter, cut into eight triangle shapes. This gives them that classic scone look!

Step 8: Bake

Place your scones on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell amazing as they bake!

Enjoy every bite of these warm Pumpkin Scones—they’re sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Scones

Making the perfect pumpkin scones can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking success!

• Use cold butter: Cold butter is key for creating flaky scones. It helps to form air pockets in the dough during baking, giving your scones that light and fluffy texture we all love.

• Don’t overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they come together. Overmixing can lead to tough scones instead of tender ones, so treat the dough gently!

• Adjust flour as needed: If your dough feels too sticky, don’t hesitate to add a little more flour. A soft dough is essential, but it should still be manageable when you knead it.

• Chill before baking: For even better results, consider chilling the shaped scones in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape and enhances their texture.

• Experiment with spices: While this recipe features classic fall spices, feel free to adjust them according to your taste or try adding other flavors like cardamom for a unique twist!

How to Serve Pumpkin Scones

Presenting your pumpkin scones can turn a simple dish into a delightful experience. Whether it’s for a cozy breakfast or an inviting afternoon tea, these serving ideas will surely impress!

Garnishes

• Drizzle of maple syrup: A light drizzle of maple syrup not only adds sweetness but also enhances the autumn flavor profile of your scones.
• Sprinkle of cinnamon sugar: Combine equal parts cinnamon and sugar and sprinkle it over the top just before serving for a sweet touch that complements the pumpkin.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with a dollop of whipped coconut cream—a perfect creamy contrast to the scone’s texture.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like apples and pears balances out the richness of the scones while providing freshness.
• Herbal tea: Pair your pumpkin scones with a warm cup of herbal tea such as chamomile or chai. The soothing flavors will elevate your snack time experience.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a delicious side that adds creaminess and crunch—perfect along with pumpkin goodness.
• Pumpkin soup: For an extra cozy meal, serve alongside a warm bowl of pumpkin soup. Its creamy texture and savory notes complement the sweetness of the scones beautifully.

Enjoy these delightful pumpkin scones any way you choose! They’re sure to bring warmth and joy to your fall gatherings or quiet mornings at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Scones are perfect for meal prep! They can be made ahead of time and stored, making them a convenient treat for busy mornings or an effortless dessert for gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store your cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the scones to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• For a quick option, you can microwave a scone on high for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come to mind as you dive into making these delightful Pumpkin Scones!

Can I make these Pumpkin Scones without chocolate chips?

Absolutely! The chocolate chips are optional. You can omit them or replace them with nuts or dried fruits for a different flavor twist.

How do I ensure my Pumpkin Scones are fluffy?

Make sure not to overmix the dough. Fold the wet and dry ingredients gently until just combined to keep your scones light and fluffy!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes! If you’re using fresh pumpkin, make sure to cook and puree it until smooth before measuring out 1 cup for the recipe.

What can I serve with Pumpkin Scones?

These scones pair wonderfully with tea or coffee. You can also enjoy them with a dollop of cream cheese frosting or a drizzle of maple syrup.

How long do these Pumpkin Scones last?

When stored properly, they will stay fresh at room temperature for two days or in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Pumpkin Scones as much as I do! Whether you’re savoring them with your morning coffee or sharing them with friends, they’re sure to bring warmth and comfort to your day. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors—this recipe is truly special! Happy baking!