Pumpkin Scones

This pumpkin scones recipe is perfect for cozy mornings or festive gatherings. The delightful blend of pumpkin flavors and warm spices creates a comforting treat that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. Plus, they are drizzled with a light vanilla glaze that adds just the right touch of sweetness. Whether you’re serving them at brunch, enjoying them as an afternoon snack, or sharing with friends on a chilly day, Pumpkin Scones are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These scones can be made in about 45 minutes, perfect for busy mornings.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon will envelop your kitchen in a cozy aroma.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with your preferred gluten-free blend for a delightful variation.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking these delicious pumpkin scones, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Pastry cutter (or forks)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all the dry ingredients evenly.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the dry ingredients, ensuring they mix well without clumps.
• Pastry cutter: This tool makes it easy to cut butter into the flour mixture, creating the perfect crumbly texture.

Ingredients

This pumpkin scones recipe is quick and easy to make, drizzled with a light vanilla glaze, and full of the best cozy pumpkin flavors.

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

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 evenly combined.

Step 2: Cut in Butter

Add the diced butter. Use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until crumbly. Make sure the butter pieces are no larger than pea-sized.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Stir in the pumpkin purée, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Use a spatula to gently mix until no dry streaks remain. Avoid over-mixing for tender scones.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Turn out the dough onto a floured surface. Fold it over itself several times until it holds together. Pat into an 8-inch circle. Slice into 8 equal wedges using a large knife.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the wedges to a parchment-lined baking sheet with at least 2 inches between each piece. Freeze for about 15 minutes while preheating your oven to 425°F.

Step 6: Bake

Brush the tops of each scone with buttermilk. Bake in the preheated oven for 13-15 minutes until lightly golden and cooked through. Cool on a wire rack.

Step 7: Glaze Your Scones

In a small bowl, whisk together glaze ingredients until smooth. If too thin, add more powdered sugar. Once cooled slightly, drizzle or brush over each scone before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pumpkin Scones

Pumpkin scones are deliciously versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack, these scones bring warmth and flavor to any occasion.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair your pumpkin scones with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon break.

As a Breakfast Treat

• Top with butter or cream cheese and serve alongside fresh fruit for a filling breakfast option.

Drizzled with Glaze

• Enhance the flavor by drizzling a light vanilla glaze on top for an added touch of sweetness.

With Whipped Cream

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

Accompanied by Spiced Apple Compote

• Pair with spiced apple compote to complement the pumpkin flavor and add some fruitiness.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Scones

To ensure your pumpkin scones turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips that will elevate your baking game.

• Use cold butter: Cold butter helps create flaky layers in your scones. Dice or grate it before mixing it into the dry ingredients.
• Don’t over-mix the dough: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients to keep the scones tender. Over-mixing can lead to tough scones.
• Chill before baking: Placing the cut dough in the freezer for 15 minutes helps maintain their shape while baking and enhances texture.
• Bake at high temperature: Start baking at 425°F to achieve that golden color on top while keeping the inside moist.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices like ginger or cardamom for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Scones

Pumpkin scones pair well with several side dishes that enhance their rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance to the meal.
2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layered yogurt with granola and berries complements the scone’s sweetness beautifully.
3. Cheese Board
   Include a variety of cheeses alongside dried fruits and nuts for a savory contrast.
4. Savory Egg Muffins
   These muffins packed with vegetables provide protein and pair nicely with sweet scones.
5. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and hearty flavors, making it a filling meal.
6. Herbal Tea Infusion
   A calming herbal tea serves as the perfect beverage to accompany your pumpkin scones.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin scones can be a delightful experience, but there are pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect measurements: Always measure your flour and sugar accurately. Too much or too little can affect the texture.
• Over-mixing the dough: Avoid over-mixing when combining wet and dry ingredients. This can lead to tough scones instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Skipping the chill time: Don’t skip freezing the scones before baking. This step helps them rise better in the oven.
• Not preheating the oven: Make sure your oven is fully heated before placing your scones inside. A preheated oven ensures even baking.
• Ignoring glaze consistency: If your glaze is too thin, it won’t stick well. Adjust with more powdered sugar until you reach the right thickness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin scones in an airtight container.
• They will keep for about 2-3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Scones

• Place cooled scones in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Scones

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat scones for about 10 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds, just until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place a pan over low heat and cover with a lid, warming each side for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making pumpkin scones.

How do I make pumpkin scones gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works for baking. Ensure it’s a cup-for-cup replacement.

Can I replace buttermilk in pumpkin scones?

Yes, you can use regular milk or a plant-based milk alternative mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar as a substitute.

What should I serve with pumpkin scones?

Pumpkin scones pair well with tea or coffee and are delicious topped with butter or cream cheese.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my pumpkin scones?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips into the dough before baking for extra flavor.

How can I make my pumpkin scones spicier?

To enhance the spice profile, increase the amount of cinnamon or add other spices like nutmeg or cloves according to your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin scones are perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various spices and toppings, ensuring every batch is unique. Try this recipe today and enjoy the comforting flavors of fall!