Pumpkin Scones

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that brings the warmth of autumn right into your kitchen, these Pumpkin Scones are just what you need! They’re light, fluffy, and bursting with that delightful pumpkin flavor we all crave. This recipe is a favorite in my home because it’s not only quick to whip up but also perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight snack or a special addition to your weekend brunch.

What makes these scones truly special is the drizzle of light vanilla glaze that adds just the right touch of sweetness. Imagine enjoying one (or two!) fresh out of the oven with a cup of tea or coffee. It’s pure bliss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can have these Pumpkin Scones ready in under an hour, making them perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous baking sessions.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves scones! They’re soft, flavorful, and easy to customize, so you can please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These scones freeze beautifully, so you can bake a batch ahead of time and enjoy them whenever you like.
• Delicious Flavor: With warm spices like cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice, each bite feels like a hug on a chilly day.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. You can enjoy them plain or with your favorite toppings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Pumpkin Scones is simple because they use wholesome ingredients that you likely already have at home. Gather these goodies, and let’s get baking!

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
– 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 best things about this Pumpkin Scones recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!

• Add Chocolate Chips: Toss in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for a delicious contrast to the pumpkin flavor.
• Mix in Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans will add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
• Change the Spices: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
• Glaze Alternatives: Instead of vanilla glaze, try drizzling with maple syrup for an extra touch of fall sweetness.

How to Make Pumpkin Scones

Step 1: Whisk Together 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 important because it ensures that all those lovely spices are distributed throughout the dough.

Step 2: Cut in the Butter

Add the diced butter to your dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or two forks (you can even use a food processor if you prefer), cut the butter into the mixture until it resembles crumbly bits no larger than pea-sized. This creates those flaky layers we love in scones!

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time to fold in the good stuff! Add the pumpkin purée, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Gently stir with a spatula until no dry streaks remain. Be careful not to over-mix; we want our scones tender and fluffy!

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Turn your mixture out onto a floured surface. Fold it over itself gently until it holds together as a ball (don’t worry if it feels sticky). Pat it down into an 8-inch circle and slice into eight equal wedges using a knife or bench scraper.

Step 5: Chill Before Baking

Transfer those wedges onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Pop them in the freezer for about 15 minutes while your oven preheats to 425°F. This helps them rise beautifully while baking!

Step 6: Brush & Bake

Just before baking, lightly brush each scone with buttermilk to give them that golden finish as they bake. Slide them into your hot oven and bake for about 13–15 minutes until they’re lightly golden on top.

Step 7: Glaze & Serve

Once cooled slightly on a wire rack, whisk together your glaze ingredients until smooth. Brush or drizzle this sweet topping over your scones and serve warm! Enjoy every bite of these delightful Pumpkin Scones!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Scones

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

• Use cold ingredients: Starting with very cold butter and buttermilk helps create those flaky layers we all love in scones. The cold temperature prevents the butter from melting too quickly, allowing it to steam during baking.

• Don’t over-mix: Gently stirring the dough until just combined preserves the tenderness of the scones. Over-mixing can lead to dense, tough scones rather than light and fluffy ones.

• Chill the dough: Freezing the shaped scones for 15 minutes before baking helps them maintain their shape in the oven. This little step can make a big difference in achieving that perfect rise.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices! A pinch of ginger or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile of your scones, giving them a unique twist that you’ll enjoy even more.

• Store properly: To keep your scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep them longer, consider freezing them and reheating as needed.

How to Serve Pumpkin Scones

Serving pumpkin scones is all about creating a cozy atmosphere that complements their warm flavors. Here are some ideas to help you present this delicious treat beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of your scones for a delightful crunch and added richness.
• Cinnamon sugar: Dusting a little cinnamon sugar over the glaze gives your scones an extra sparkle and an inviting aroma.
• Fresh herbs: A few sprigs of rosemary or thyme make a lovely contrast against the sweetness of pumpkin, adding both flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Spiced chai tea: A warm cup of spiced chai pairs wonderfully with pumpkin scones, enhancing their cozy flavors while providing a caffeine kick.
• Apple cider: Serve alongside hot apple cider for a quintessential autumn experience that balances sweetness with just the right amount of spice.
• Creamy yogurt: A side of plain or vanilla yogurt adds creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the soft texture of the scones, making for a satisfying breakfast or snack.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits like pears and apples provides brightness and freshness that complements the rich flavors of pumpkin.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your delicious pumpkin scones! Enjoy every bite and celebrate those cozy moments.

Make Ahead and Storage

This pumpkin scones recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and enjoy their delightful flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your scones:

Storing Leftovers

• Store 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.
• If you want to maintain their texture, consider placing parchment paper between layers.

Freezing

• Allow baked 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. Just be sure to label the bag with the date!

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, microwave individual scones on high for about 20-30 seconds.
• Enjoy warm with your favorite spread or just as they are!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making pumpkin scones:

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

Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and puree the fresh pumpkin until smooth before using it as a substitute. This will give your scones that lovely pumpkin flavor.

What makes these pumpkin scones so special?

These pumpkin scones are special because they combine cozy autumn spices with the richness of pumpkin, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I make pumpkin scones ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it or freeze it for later baking. This makes it easy to enjoy freshly baked scones whenever you like!

How do I get my pumpkin scones fluffy?

To ensure fluffy scones, avoid over-mixing the dough after adding wet ingredients. Gently fold until just combined, and ensure your baking powder is fresh for a good rise.

What can I serve with pumpkin scones?

These delicious pumpkin scones pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee! You could also enjoy them with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite jam.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these scrumptious pumpkin scones as much as I do! Their warm, inviting flavors are perfect for cozy mornings or gatherings with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices or toppings that you love! Happy baking!