Pumpkin Scones

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of autumn, these Pumpkin Scones are just what you need! They are incredibly easy to whip up and perfect for any occasion—from busy weeknights to family gatherings or a relaxing weekend brunch. The warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor make these scones an absolute delight, especially when drizzled with a simple vanilla glaze. Trust me, once you taste them, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand.

These pumpkin scones are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be enjoyed fresh from the oven with a cup of tea or coffee, or they can be made ahead for those busy mornings. No matter when you decide to serve them, your friends and family will surely be impressed!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can have homemade scones ready in no time.
• Cozy Flavors: The blend of pumpkin and spices creates a warm, comforting taste that screams fall.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these scones fit any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love them! These scones are sure to become a favorite among all ages.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake whenever you’re ready!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Gather these items together, and let’s get started on making some delightful pumpkin scones!

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 recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your pumpkin scones by trying out these variations:

• Add Nuts: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: For a sweet twist, add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the dough.
• Go Savory: Swap out some of the sugar for cheese and herbs for a savory scone option.
• Experiment with Spices: Try adding different spices like nutmeg or cloves for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Pumpkin Scones

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and fine sea salt until evenly combined. This step is crucial as it ensures that all the flavors blend together beautifully.

Step 2: Cut in Butter

Add the diced butter into the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized chunks. This process helps create those flaky layers we all love in scones.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, stir in the pumpkin purée, buttermilk (or milk), and vanilla extract until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix—this will keep your scones tender and fluffy!

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Turn your dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently fold it over itself until it holds together. Pat it down into an 8-inch circle. Using a large knife or bench scraper, slice it into eight equal wedges. Don’t worry if it feels sticky; that’s perfectly normal!

Step 5: Chill Before Baking

Transfer each wedge to a parchment-lined baking sheet with at least two inches of space between them. Pop them in the freezer for about 15 minutes while preheating your oven to 425°F. Chilling helps your scones rise beautifully.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Brush each scone lightly with buttermilk before placing them in the oven. Bake for about 13-15 minutes until they’re lightly golden on top. Once done, let them cool on a wire rack—if you can wait that long!

Step 7: Drizzle with Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar with buttermilk (or milk) and vanilla extract until smooth. Once your scones have cooled slightly, drizzle or brush this sweet glaze on top for an extra touch of sweetness.

Serve these delightful pumpkin scones warm with your favorite beverage and enjoy every cozy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Scones

Making pumpkin scones at home can be a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll achieve perfect results every time!

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

• Don’t over-mix: Mixing just until combined is key to achieving tender scones. Over-mixing can lead to dense scones instead of the light and fluffy texture we all love.

• Chill before baking: Freezing the cut scone wedges for about 15 minutes before baking helps them maintain their shape in the oven. This step allows the butter to firm up again, ensuring a better rise.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or adjust the amounts in the mix. A little nutmeg or ginger can give your scones a unique twist that makes them even more delightful.

• Store properly: If you have leftovers (though they may not last long!), store your scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them and reheat when needed!

How to Serve Pumpkin Scones

Presenting your pumpkin scones beautifully can make your cozy treat even more inviting! Whether for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, here are some ideas on how to serve them.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon sugar dusting: Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon sugar over the top of your scones while they’re still warm for an added touch of sweetness and flavor.
• Chopped nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch and enhance the autumn flavors of the scones.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, serve your scones with a dollop of whipped coconut cream topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A fresh fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and pomegranates complements the spiced flavor of pumpkin scones perfectly.
• Chai tea: Pairing these scones with a warm cup of chai tea creates an inviting flavor combination that’s perfect for chilly mornings.
• Maple syrup drizzles: Offer pure maple syrup on the side for those who prefer an extra touch of sweetness. Its rich flavor pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese can contrast nicely with the sweet and spiced notes of your pumpkin scones, making for an interesting taste experience.

Enjoy serving up these delicious pumpkin scones in style! They’re sure to become a favorite in your home this season.

Make Ahead and Storage

These pumpkin scones are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a cozy treat any time of day. With simple storage and freezing options, you can always have a batch ready to go!

Storing Leftovers

• Place cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each cooled scone tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place the wrapped scones in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, remove the scone from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave on low power for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you as you make these delightful pumpkin scones.

Can I substitute the buttermilk in the Pumpkin Scones recipe?

Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can use regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it in your recipe.

How do I make my Pumpkin Scones fluffier?

For fluffier scones, ensure your baking powder is fresh and that you don’t over-mix the dough. Gentle folding helps keep air pockets that make them light and fluffy.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Pumpkin Scones?

Yes! Feel free to fold in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips after mixing the wet and dry ingredients. Just be mindful not to overwork the dough.

What makes this Pumpkin Scones recipe special?

This Pumpkin Scones recipe is special because it combines warm spices and pumpkin flavors with a light vanilla glaze, creating a comforting treat that’s perfect for fall!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these lovely pumpkin scones! They are not only delicious but also fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas that bring warmth and comfort. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as part of your meal prep; either way, they’re sure to become a favorite. Happy baking!