Pumpkin Scones

If you’re looking for a cozy and delicious treat to enjoy this fall, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! These Pumpkin Scones are not only easy to whip up, but they also fill your kitchen with the warm spices of autumn. Imagine biting into a tender scone that captures all the best pumpkin flavors, drizzled with a light vanilla glaze. It’s truly a hug in food form!

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, enjoying a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea, or need a quick snack for busy weeknights, these scones fit right in. They’re delightful for breakfast or as an afternoon pick-me-up. Trust me; you’ll want to keep this Pumpkin Scones recipe close at hand.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these scones ready in no time.
• Cozy Flavors: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg makes each bite feel like a warm embrace.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves scones! These are perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them ahead of time and enjoy them fresh out of the oven whenever you please.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them on their own or topped with your favorite spread; they’re delightful either way!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delightful Pumpkin Scones, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need!

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! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add nuts or chocolate chips: Toss in some chopped walnuts or dark chocolate chips for an extra treat!
• Make it spicier: Add more spices like ginger or cardamom to enhance the flavor profile.
• Swap the glaze: Instead of vanilla glaze, try a maple syrup drizzle for a different sweet touch.
• Use different flours: Experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free blends to suit your needs.

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. This step ensures that your dry ingredients are mixed well so that every bite is flavorful.

Step 2: Cut in the Butter

Add the diced butter and use a pastry cutter or two forks (or even a food processor) to cut the butter into the dry ingredients. You want the mixture to be crumbly with pea-sized chunks of butter. This creates flaky layers in your scones.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, add in the pumpkin purée, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Use a spatula to quickly stir until no dry streaks remain. Be gentle—over-mixing can lead to tough scones!

Step 4: Shape Your Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and fold it over itself just until it holds together. Pat it down into an 8-inch circle and slice into 8 wedges. Don’t worry if it’s sticky; that’s normal!

Step 5: Freeze Before Baking

Transfer your wedges onto a parchment-covered baking sheet—make sure they have space between them! Pop them in the freezer for about 15 minutes while preheating your oven to 425°F. This helps create those lovely flaky layers.

Step 6: Bake Your Scones

Brush each wedge lightly with buttermilk before baking them for about 13-15 minutes until they’re golden on top. The aroma will fill your kitchen!

Step 7: Glaze and Enjoy!

Once cooled slightly on a wire rack, whisk together your glaze ingredients and drizzle it over the scones. Now they’re ready to be enjoyed—perfect with coffee or tea!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Scones

Making pumpkin scones can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help ensure your scones turn out perfectly every time!

• Use cold ingredients: Starting with very cold butter and buttermilk helps create a flaky texture. The cold fat generates steam as the scones bake, resulting in that nice rise and tender crumb.

• Don’t over-mix the dough: Mixing just until combined is key to keeping your scones light and fluffy. Over-mixing can lead to dense scones, so be gentle!

• Chill before baking: Freezing the shaped scones for about 15 minutes before baking helps maintain their shape and allows for better texture. This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly golden top.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to play around with spices like nutmeg or ginger to customize your flavor profile. Each spice adds a unique twist to the classic pumpkin flavor.

• Brush with buttermilk: A light brushing of buttermilk before baking not only adds moisture but also creates a lovely golden color on the tops of your scones.

How to Serve Pumpkin Scones

Presenting your pumpkin scones beautifully can enhance the overall experience for you and your guests. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkling chopped nuts on top of the glaze adds a delightful crunch and complements the soft texture of the scone.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar can bring an extra layer of warmth and sweetness that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
• Fresh herbs: A few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary can introduce an aromatic contrast that enhances the cozy flavors of the scone.

Side Dishes

• Spiced apple cider: This warm drink makes for a perfect pairing, as its sweet and spicy notes complement the pumpkin flavors wonderfully.
• Creamy yogurt parfait: Layered with granola and seasonal fruits, this refreshing dish balances out the rich flavors of the scones while adding a lovely presentation.
• Maple syrup drizzle: Offering maple syrup on the side lets everyone enjoy their scones with an additional touch of sweetness that harmonizes beautifully.
• Herbal tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea provides a comforting beverage option that pairs well with the warm spices in your pumpkin scones.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll impress everyone at your next gathering! Enjoy your cozy baking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

These pumpkin scones are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the cozy flavors of fall any time you crave them!

Storing Leftovers

• Place cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer them softer, consider placing a slice of bread in the container to help retain moisture.

Freezing

• Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat scones in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave each scone for 10-15 seconds if you’re short on time.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making pumpkin scones.

Can I make Pumpkin Scones without buttermilk?

Absolutely! You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk or a dairy-free alternative. Just add a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice to your milk and let it sit for a few minutes to achieve a similar tangy flavor.

How do I ensure my Pumpkin Scones are fluffy?

To keep your pumpkin scones light and fluffy, avoid over-mixing the dough. Mix just until combined and handle the dough gently when shaping it.

What variations can I try with Pumpkin Scones?

You can experiment by adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits like cranberries. Each addition brings its own delightful twist!

How long do Pumpkin Scones last?

When stored properly, pumpkin scones will last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to 3 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking these warm and inviting pumpkin scones! They’re not just delicious; they’re a wonderful way to embrace the flavors of autumn and share moments with loved ones. Enjoy every bite and feel free to try different variations that suit your taste. Happy baking!