If you are craving a cozy treat that perfectly captures the flavors of fall, this Spiced Baked Pumpkin Scones Recipe will quickly become your go-to. These tender, buttery scones infused with warm autumn spices and bright pumpkin are irresistibly fragrant and comforting. Whether you are serving them for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon pick-me-up, the delightful balance of sweet glaze and spicy pumpkin will have you savoring each bite like a warm hug. Let me show you how easy it is to bring this seasonal favorite into your kitchen with ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients is all it takes to create these scrumptious scones. Each element plays a crucial role in bringing out the tender texture, rich flavor, and that perfect golden color we adore.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation for a light yet structured scone crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness without overpowering the pumpkin’s natural earthiness.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Essential leavening agents that help the scones rise beautifully.
- Salt: Balances and enhances the spices and sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves: Classic warming spices that bring autumn magic to every bite.
- Cold unsalted butter: Creates flaky, tender layers as it melts during baking.
- Pumpkin puree: Provides moistness, subtle sweetness, and that irresistible pumpkin flavor.
- Buttermilk: Adds a slight tang and helps create a tender crumb.
- Egg: Binds the dough together and enriches the texture.
- Vanilla extract: Brightens and rounds out the flavor profile.
- Powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon (for glaze): A sweet finishing touch that adds shine and a hint of spice.
How to Make Spiced Baked Pumpkin Scones Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step sets you up for a smooth baking process and ensures your scones won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Whisking evenly distributes the spices and leavening agents so every bite is perfectly spiced and fluffy.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This is key for that tender, flaky texture you want in your scones.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the pumpkin puree, buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. This creamy mixture brings moisture and richness, complementing the spices perfectly.
Step 5: Form the Dough
Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet ingredients. Stir gently just until combined — be careful not to overmix, or the scones might turn out tough instead of tender.
Step 6: Knead Lightly
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead briefly just until it comes together. Keep it gentle so you maintain a light, flaky texture in the finished scones.
Step 7: Shape and Cut
Pat the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick. Slice it into 8 wedges using a sharp knife. This classic shape helps the scones bake evenly and look inviting.
Step 8: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the scones on your lined baking sheet with a bit of space between each. They will rise and expand in the oven, so giving them room prevents them from sticking together.
Step 9: Bake
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The warm spice aroma filling your kitchen is a sure sign they are ready!
Step 10: Prepare the Glaze
While the scones bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon to create a smooth glaze. This sweet topping adds the perfect finishing touch of flavor and visual appeal.
Step 11: Glaze and Cool
Allow the scones to cool briefly before transferring them to a wire rack. Drizzle or spread your glaze over each warm scone, letting it melt slightly for an irresistible shiny finish.
How to Serve Spiced Baked Pumpkin Scones Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a pinch of extra cinnamon or finely chopped toasted nuts over the glazed scones to add texture and a hint of crunch. A dusting of powdered sugar can also make them look picture-perfect for guests.
Side Dishes
These scones are fantastic served alongside a steaming cup of chai tea, coffee, or even a lightly sweetened latte. They also pair wonderfully with fresh fruit like apple slices or a berry compote for a balanced breakfast or snack.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, arrange the scones on a rustic wooden board with small jars of clotted cream, honey, or pumpkin butter. You can also sandwich them with a smear of cream cheese frosting for a decadent twist that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any uneaten scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This preserves their tender crumb, but they are best enjoyed fresh to capture all the pumpkin spices at their peak.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months, making it easy to enjoy your Spiced Baked Pumpkin Scones Recipe anytime you crave a seasonal treat.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or stored scones in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to bring back their fresh-baked texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the scones rubbery rather than flaky.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and puree your fresh pumpkin thoroughly and drain any excess liquid to keep the dough consistency just right.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1/3 cup milk with 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes. This DIY buttermilk will work perfectly in the recipe.
Are these scones gluten-free?
This particular recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you could experiment with gluten-free flour blends, but expect some variation in texture.
Can I make these scones vegan?
You can swap the butter for a vegan alternative and use a flax egg or another egg substitute. Keep in mind this might alter the texture slightly but can still yield delicious scones.
How spicy are these scones?
The spices offer a warm, inviting flavor without heat, making them approachable for all palates. You can always adjust the spice levels to your personal taste by reducing or enhancing the amounts.
Final Thoughts
This Spiced Baked Pumpkin Scones Recipe is a heartwarming way to welcome the flavors of fall into your kitchen. With its tender crumb, rich spice blend, and sweet glaze, it’s a treat that brings people together and sparks joy at any table. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and share this cozy delight with those you love!
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Spiced Baked Pumpkin Scones Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Spiced Baked Pumpkin Scones are a perfect autumn treat, combining warm spices and pumpkin puree for a moist, flavorful bite. They are lightly glazed with a sweet cinnamon-vanilla icing that adds a lovely finishing touch, ideal for breakfast or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
Scones
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves until well blended.
- Cut in butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Stir gently just until a dough forms; avoid overmixing.
- Knead dough lightly: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently a few times to bring it together without overworking.
- Shape and cut dough: Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick circle. Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the dough into 8 equal wedges.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Transfer the scones to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart so they don’t touch as they will expand during baking.
- Bake scones: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Prepare glaze: While the scones bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using) until smooth.
- Cool and glaze: Let the scones cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer them to a wire rack. Drizzle or spread the glaze over the warm scones and let it set before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is very cold for best flaky texture.
- Do not overwork the dough to keep scones tender.
- Use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to control sweetness and spices.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with a mixture of plant-based milk and lemon juice.
- Glaze can be omitted or replaced with a simple dusting of powdered sugar for less sweetness.
