Pumpkin Scones

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that embodies the warm and cozy essence of autumn, you’ve come to the right place! These Pumpkin Scones are not only easy to make, but they also fill your kitchen with the most comforting aromas. They are perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or whenever you need a little pick-me-up with your favorite cup of tea or coffee.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and the delicious results. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you’ll create scones that are tender on the inside and have a lovely golden crust. Plus, drizzling them with a light vanilla glaze takes them to a whole new level of yum!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip up these Pumpkin Scones in under an hour, making them ideal for last-minute cravings or guests.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love these scones! They are sweet without being overly indulgent, perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it. Just bake whenever you’re ready for fresh scones!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin purée and warm spices makes every bite feel like a hug in your mouth.
• Customizable: Enjoy them as is or add your own twist with different spices or toppings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step toward making these delightful Pumpkin Scones. You probably already have many of these staples in your pantry!

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 my favorite things about this Pumpkin Scones recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and adjust it to suit your tastes.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like ginger or cardamom to customize the flavor profile.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use plant-based milk for a delicious vegan version.
• Fruit Twist: Add dried cranberries or chocolate chips for a fun surprise in each bite!

How to Make Pumpkin Scones

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together your dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. This includes flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Mixing them well ensures that all flavors are evenly distributed throughout your scone dough.

Step 2: Cut in the Butter

Next, add the cold butter into your flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or two forks (or even a food processor), cut the butter into the dry mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial because small chunks of butter will create those flaky layers we all love in scones!

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time to add in the pumpkin purée, buttermilk (or milk), and vanilla extract. Use a spatula to gently stir until no dry streaks remain. Remember not to over-mix; we want these scones to be tender!

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently fold it over itself until it holds together—don’t worry if it’s slightly sticky! Pat it down into an even circle about an inch thick. Then slice it into eight wedges using a sharp knife.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Transfer your scone wedges onto a parchment-covered baking sheet with some space between them. Pop them into the freezer while you preheat your oven to 425°F. This helps them keep their shape while baking!

Step 6: Bake Those Scones

Before baking, brush each scone lightly with buttermilk to give them that beautiful golden color. Bake them for about 13-15 minutes until they are lightly golden on top. Once done, transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly.

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

While your scones cool down, whisk together powdered sugar, buttermilk (or milk), and vanilla extract for the glaze. Brush or drizzle this delightful mixture over your warm scones once they’re ready! Now serve up these beauties warm and enjoy every cozy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Scones

Making pumpkin scones is a delightful experience, and a few handy tips can elevate your baking game to the next level!

• Use cold ingredients: Starting with very cold butter and buttermilk helps create a flaky texture in your scones. The cold fat will melt during baking, creating steam that lifts the dough.

• Don’t overmix: Gently mixing the ingredients until just combined ensures that your scones remain tender. Overmixing can lead to tough scones—no one wants that!

• Chill the dough: Resting the shaped scones in the freezer before baking helps them maintain their shape and rise beautifully in the oven. This little step can make a big difference!

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to customize the flavors by adding different spices like nutmeg or cardamom. This can enhance the cozy fall vibes of your scones.

• Check for doneness: Keep an eye on your scones as they bake; every oven is different. They should be lightly golden on top and firm to the touch when done.

How to Serve Pumpkin Scones

Presenting your pumpkin scones beautifully will make them even more enjoyable! Here are some creative ideas for serving this delightful treat.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon sugar: A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top right before serving adds an extra layer of sweetness and flavor.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Adding a handful of chopped nuts as a garnish not only provides crunch but also complements the warm spices in the scone.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with whipped coconut cream for a luscious topping that pairs perfectly with pumpkin flavors.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing side of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, or berries brightens up your plate and balances out the richness of the scones.
• Spiced chai latte: Pairing your pumpkin scones with a warm cup of spiced chai latte creates a cozy autumn experience. The spices in both dishes harmonize beautifully!
• Maple syrup drizzle: Serve alongside a small bowl of pure maple syrup for drizzling. It adds sweetness and complements the pumpkin flavor wonderfully.
• Herbal tea: A soothing herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, makes for a perfect accompaniment, enhancing relaxation while you enjoy your delicious scones.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your pumpkin scone experience will be nothing short of delightful! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These pumpkin scones are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip them up ahead of time and enjoy the delightful flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat them:

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them, where they will last about a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped scones in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can be kept for up to 2 months.
• For best results, label the bag with the date so you know when to enjoy them by!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake the scones for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• If reheating from room temperature, they only need about 5-7 minutes in the oven.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making these delicious pumpkin scones.

Can I substitute the buttermilk in pumpkin scones?

Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can use regular milk or a non-dairy alternative. For every cup of milk needed, add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes to sour.

How do I make pumpkin scones more flavorful?

For extra flavor in your pumpkin scones, feel free to add spices like nutmeg or ground ginger along with your current spices. You can also mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture.

How long do homemade pumpkin scones last?

Homemade pumpkin scones can last up to 3 days at room temperature when stored properly. If you freeze them, they can last up to 2 months!

What makes these pumpkin scones unique?

These pumpkin scones are unique because they combine cozy autumn flavors with a light vanilla glaze that adds just the right sweetness without overwhelming the palate. They are quick and easy to make, making them perfect for any occasion!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned purée?

Yes! You can roast fresh pumpkins and blend them until smooth. Just make sure to remove excess moisture before using it in your recipe.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking these delightful pumpkin scones! They embody all the warmth and comfort of fall with their cozy flavors and inviting aroma. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, these treats are bound to bring smiles to your table. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with loved ones—there’s something special about sharing food made from the heart!