Here’s a delightful recipe for pumpkin scones, perfect for fall gatherings, cozy breakfasts, or a festive treat to enjoy with your favorite beverage. These scones are not only easy to make but also boast a rich, spiced flavor that captures the essence of the season.
Pumpkin Scones Recipe
Introduction
Pumpkin scones are a wonderful autumn treat that combines the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices with a flaky, tender texture. They are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack and pair beautifully with tea or coffee. The addition of pumpkin puree not only adds flavor but also provides a moistness that makes these scones irresistible. Whether you enjoy them plain, with a drizzle of glaze, or a dollop of cream, these scones will warm your heart and fill your kitchen with the delightful scent of fall.
Ingredients
For the Scones:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 3/4 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until well combined.
- Cut in the Butter: Add the cold cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the pumpkin mixture into the flour mixture and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Shape the Scones: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut the dough into wedges or use a biscuit cutter to create round scones.
- Bake: Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Glaze (optional): While the scones are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled scones for added sweetness.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve your pumpkin scones warm or at room temperature. They are perfect on their own or can be enjoyed with:
- Hot Beverages: Pair with a warm cup of chai tea, pumpkin spice latte, or apple cider for a comforting fall experience.
- Spreads: Consider serving with butter, cream cheese, or flavored spreads like maple cream or cinnamon butter for an extra touch of indulgence.
- Fresh Fruit: Accompany with sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced scones.
These pumpkin scones are sure to be a hit at any gathering, bringing the flavors of autumn right to your table. Enjoy!
