Pumpkin Scones

If you’re looking for a cozy treat to brighten up your day, these Pumpkin Scones are just the thing! With their warm spices and delicious pumpkin flavor, they’re perfect for chilly mornings or when you need a little comfort food. I love making these scones for family gatherings or enjoying them with a cup of coffee during a quiet afternoon. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip these scones up in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute brunches.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen and makes everyone feel at home.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love scones! They’re a fun way to introduce them to seasonal flavors without any fuss.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when you need them, saving you time on those hectic mornings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Gather everything you need to create these delicious Pumpkin Scones!

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to play around with different flavors and additions.

• Add Some Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an added crunch.
• Swap the Spice: Experiment with different spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique twist on flavor.
• Make Them Mini: Cut the dough into smaller pieces for bite-sized scones that are perfect for sharing.
• Chocolate Chip Delight: Add chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks for a sweet surprise inside.

How to Make Pumpkin Scones

Step 1: Prepare the 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 is crucial because it ensures that all the flavors are well-distributed throughout your scones.

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’re looking for crumbly textures with pea-sized chunks of butter. This will create flaky layers in your scones!

Step 3: Mix in Wet Ingredients

Next, 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 those scones light and fluffy!

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Turn out the mixture onto a flour-dusted surface and fold it over itself a few times until it holds together. Pat it down into an 8-inch circle and slice it into 8 wedges. Don’t worry if it’s sticky; that’s how we know it’s going to be moist and delicious!

Step 5: Chill Before Baking

Transfer the wedges onto a parchment-covered baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart. Pop them in the freezer for about 15 minutes while your oven heats up to 425°F. This helps maintain their shape while baking.

Step 6: Bake Them Up!

Brush each scone’s top with buttermilk before placing them in the oven. Bake for about 13-15 minutes until they’re lightly golden on top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 7: Glaze and Enjoy!

Once cooled slightly on a wire rack, whisk together your glaze ingredients until smooth. Brush or drizzle this delightful glaze over your warm Pumpkin Scones. Serve them up and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Scones

Making pumpkin scones can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure that yours turn out perfectly every time!

• Use cold ingredients: Keeping your butter and buttermilk very cold helps create a flaky texture in your scones. The cold fat creates steam as it bakes, resulting in tender layers.

• Don’t over-mix the dough: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to dense scones instead of light and fluffy ones.

• Chill before baking: Allowing the shaped scones to chill in the freezer for 15 minutes before baking helps them retain their shape and results in a better rise while they bake.

• Brush with buttermilk: A light brushing of buttermilk before baking not only adds moisture but also gives your scones a beautiful golden color and a slightly crisp exterior.

• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to customize your scone flavor! Adding a pinch of ginger or cardamom can give an extra warmth that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

How to Serve Pumpkin Scones

Serving pumpkin scones is all about presentation and pairing them with delightful accompaniments that enhance their flavors. Here are some ideas to make your serving experience even more enjoyable!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: A sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans adds texture and a nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin.
• Fresh herbs: A few sprigs of rosemary or thyme on the side add an unexpected freshness that balances the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Warm apple cider: This seasonal favorite pairs wonderfully with pumpkin flavors, providing warmth and spice that enhances every bite of your scone.
• Maple-infused yogurt: A dollop of yogurt drizzled with maple syrup brings creaminess and a hint of sweetness that perfectly contrasts the scone’s texture.
• Mixed berry compote: The tartness of berries in a homemade compote adds brightness to the rich flavors of pumpkin, creating a delicious balance on your plate.
• Herbal tea: A warming cup of herbal tea—like chamomile or chai—makes for a cozy beverage choice alongside your pumpkin scones, enhancing their autumnal charm.

By following these serving suggestions, you’ll create an inviting atmosphere perfect for enjoying your homemade pumpkin scones!

Make Ahead and Storage

These pumpkin scones are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat throughout the week. Whether you’re gearing up for a busy morning or want a sweet snack on hand, these scones can be easily stored or frozen for later.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, place them in the refrigerator where they will last up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the scones cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped scones in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, label with the date so you can keep track of how long they’ve been stored.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, simply bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through.
• If reheating from the fridge, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 5-7 minutes.
• You can also microwave individual scones for about 15-20 seconds if you’re short on time.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making pumpkin scones!

Can I substitute the buttermilk in pumpkin scones?

Absolutely! You can use regular milk or a non-dairy milk alternative such as almond milk or oat milk in place of buttermilk. Just remember to add a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic buttermilk’s acidity.

What makes these pumpkin scones special?

These pumpkin scones are special because they’re not only easy to make but also infused with warm spices and sweet pumpkin flavor. The light vanilla glaze on top adds just the right amount of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.

How do I ensure my pumpkin scones turn out fluffy?

To achieve fluffy pumpkin scones, make sure not to over-mix your dough once you add wet ingredients. Gently fold until just combined and handle the dough as little as possible before baking.

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

Yes! Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, pecans, or walnuts into your batter for an extra flavor boost. Just make sure not to overload the dough so it still bakes evenly!

Final Thoughts

I hope this pumpkin scones recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! It’s perfect for cozy gatherings, festive mornings, or simply indulging yourself. Enjoy every bite and feel free to experiment with flavors that resonate with you. Happy baking!