Nothing captures the essence of fall quite like the rich taste of pumpkin. This delightful pumpkin scones recipe will fill your kitchen with the warm and comforting aromas of autumn. Each scone is tender and flaky, packed with pumpkin flavor and warming spices, and topped off with a sweet vanilla glaze that perfectly complements the earthy pumpkin. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, these scones are sure to be a hit.
Most ingredients in this recipe should be readily available in your pantry or local supermarket. However, it's important to note that pumpkin puree is different from pumpkin pie filling. Make sure you're grabbing the right one when shopping. Also, the recipe calls for buttermilk, which gives the scones a slightly tangy flavor and tender texture. If you can't find buttermilk, you can make your own by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk and letting it sit for about 10 minutes until it curdles.
Needed Ingredients for Pumpkin Scones
All-purpose flour: This is the base of the scones, providing structure and texture.
Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a bit of moisture to the scones.
Baking powder: This is the leavening agent that makes the scones rise.
Ground cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice: These spices give the scones their characteristic warm, autumnal flavor.
Fine sea salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Butter: Creates a rich flavor and contributes to the flaky texture of the scones.
Pumpkin puree: Gives the scones their pumpkin flavor and moist texture.
Buttermilk: Adds a slightly tangy flavor and helps create a tender texture in the scones.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Powdered sugar: Used in the glaze, it adds a sweet, smooth finish to the scones.
One reader, Brooke Fischer says:
These pumpkin scones are a game-changer! The warm, comforting aroma of pumpkin and spices fills the kitchen as they bake. The scones are perfectly moist and the vanilla glaze adds a delightful sweetness. They're a hit with my family and friends. A must-try for any pumpkin lover!
Techniques Required for Making Pumpkin Scones
How to make pumpkin scones: A step-by-step guide on preparing the scone dough, shaping it, and baking it to perfection.
How to make vanilla glaze: A guide on mixing and drizzling the perfect vanilla glaze over the scones for a delightful finishing touch.
How To Make Pumpkin Scones
Munch on these flaky pumpkin scones made with pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and pumpkin spice, drizzled with vanilla glaze on top, for a delectable treat!
Serves:
Ingredients
For Pumpkin Scones:
- 2½cupsall-purpose flour
- ½cupbrown sugar,packed
- 1tbspbaking powder
- 2tspground cinnamon
- 2tsppumpkin pie spice
- ½tspfine sea salt
- ½cupbutter,very cold, salted, diced or grated
- ¾cuppumpkin puree
- ⅓cupbuttermilk,or milk, plus extra for brushing
- 1tspvanilla extract
For Vanilla Glaze:
- ½cuppowdered sugar
- 3tspbuttermilk,or milk
- ½tspvanilla extract
- ¼tspground cinnamon,or ginger, or cardamom, optional
Instructions
Pumpkin Scones:
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice and salt until evenly combined.
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Add the diced butter and use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut the butter evenly into the dry ingredients, until the mixture is crumbly and the butter forms are no larger than pea-sized chunks.
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Add in the pumpkin purée, milk, and vanilla extract. Use a spatula to quickly and gently stir the mixture until no dry streaks remain. Avoid over-mixing.
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Turn the mixture out onto a flour-dusted surface and fold the dough over on itself a few times until it holds together and can form a ball. The dough will be a bit sticky.
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Pat the dough down flat into an 8-inch circle. Then use a large knife or bench scraper to slice the dough into 8 equal-sized pie wedges.
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Transfer the wedges to a parchment-covered baking sheet, spacing them at least 2-inches apart.
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Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 15 minutes or so.
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Heat the oven to 425 degrees F. Briefly brush the top of each scone with a bit of buttermilk.
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Transfer the baking sheet to the oven, and bake for 13 to 15 minutes or until the scones are lightly golden on top and cooked through. Transfer to a wire baking rack to cool.
Vanilla Glaze:
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In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until combined. If the mixture seems too thin, add more powdered sugar.
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Once the scones have cooled a bit, brush or drizzle the glaze on top of the scones. Serve, and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
Nutrition
- Calories: 326.59kcal
- Fat: 12.12g
- Saturated Fat: 7.48g
- Trans Fat: 0.47g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.06g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.60g
- Carbohydrates: 50.03g
- Fiber: 2.18g
- Sugar: 17.73g
- Protein: 4.88g
- Cholesterol: 30.99mg
- Sodium: 252.48mg
- Calcium: 174.29mg
- Potassium: 130.26mg
- Iron: 2.55mg
- Vitamin A: 277.60µg
- Vitamin C: 1.21mg
Technique Tip for Making Perfect Pumpkin Scones
When working with the scone dough, it's important to handle it as little as possible to prevent the butter from melting. The small chunks of butter in the dough are what give the scones their flaky texture. If the butter melts before baking, the scones can become tough. Therefore, use a quick and light touch when mixing and shaping the dough. If you find the dough becoming too warm, don't hesitate to pop it back in the freezer for a few minutes.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Pumpkin Scones
Prep ahead: Prepare the dry ingredients the night before and store them in an airtight container. This will save time when you're ready to bake the scones.
Quick glaze: Instead of making a separate glaze, consider using store-bought icing to drizzle over the scones for a quicker finishing touch.
Efficient cutting: Use a pizza cutter to quickly and evenly slice the scone dough into wedges, saving time and effort.
Bake in batches: If your oven can accommodate it, consider baking the scones in two batches to save time and ensure even baking.
Multi-task: While the scones are baking, use that time to prepare other components of your meal or clean up the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Pumpkin Scones Recipe
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and extra nutrients to the scones, while also providing a slightly denser texture.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a lower glycemic index alternative to brown sugar, adding a subtle caramel flavor to the scones.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda: Baking soda can be used as a substitute for baking powder, but it requires an acidic ingredient such as buttermilk to activate it.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can be used as a substitute for cinnamon, providing a warm, slightly sweet flavor to the scones.
pumpkin pie spice - Substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger: A combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger can be used to replicate the flavors of pumpkin pie spice.
fine sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used as a substitute for fine sea salt, but it has larger crystals, so you may need to adjust the amount used.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter, adding a subtle coconut flavor to the scones.
pumpkin puree - Substitute with butternut squash puree: Butternut squash puree can be used as a substitute for pumpkin puree, providing a similar flavor and texture.
buttermilk - Substitute with milk and vinegar: Adding a tablespoon of vinegar to a cup of milk can be used as a substitute for buttermilk in this recipe.
vanilla extract - Substitute with maple extract: Maple extract can be used to add a rich, sweet flavor to the scones, similar to vanilla extract.
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Granulated sugar can be processed in a food processor to create a powdered sugar substitute for the glaze.
buttermilk - Substitute with yogurt: Yogurt can be thinned with a little milk to substitute for buttermilk in the scones recipe.
Presentation Tips for Pumpkin Scones
Elevate the plating: When presenting the pumpkin scones, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a clean, white plate to allow the warm colors of the scones to stand out. Arrange the scones in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping each other for a sophisticated look.
Incorporate seasonal elements: Embrace the essence of fall by incorporating seasonal elements into the presentation. Consider garnishing the plate with a sprig of fresh rosemary or a dusting of cinnamon to add a touch of warmth and earthiness to the overall aesthetic.
Balance the glaze: When applying the vanilla glaze, aim for precision and artistry. Drizzle the glaze over the scones in a deliberate and controlled manner, ensuring that each scone receives an equal amount of the luscious glaze. The glaze should enhance the scones' appearance without overwhelming them.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space to create a visually striking presentation. Allow the clean, white space of the plate to frame the scones, drawing attention to their rich color and enticing aroma. The strategic use of negative space can elevate the overall visual impact of the dish.
Consider textural contrast: Introduce a textural contrast to the presentation by incorporating a delicate sprinkle of powdered sugar over the scones. This subtle addition will not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a delightful textural element that complements the scones' tender crumb.
Highlight the scones' shape: Showcase the unique shape of the scones by arranging them in a manner that accentuates their form. Consider placing them in a circular arrangement to draw attention to their artisanal, handcrafted appearance.
Emphasize symmetry: Strive for symmetrical balance in the presentation, ensuring that the scones are arranged with precision and care. Symmetry can create a sense of harmony and sophistication, elevating the overall visual impact of the dish.
Add a touch of color: Introduce a pop of color to the presentation by incorporating a vibrant element such as a small cluster of fresh berries or a sprig of mint. The addition of a contrasting color will enhance the visual allure of the dish and add a touch of freshness.
Create a focal point: Establish a focal point on the plate by positioning the scones slightly off-center, drawing the eye to the heart of the presentation. This deliberate placement will create visual interest and intrigue, captivating the attention of the discerning culinary professionals.
Essential Tools for Making Pumpkin Scones
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing the scone dough together.
- Pastry cutter: A pastry cutter is used to cut the butter into the dry ingredients when making the scone dough, creating a crumbly texture.
- Bench scraper: A bench scraper is used to slice the scone dough into equal-sized pie wedges before baking.
- Baking sheet: A baking sheet is used to place the scone dough wedges for baking in the oven.
- Parchment paper: Parchment paper is used to line the baking sheet, preventing the scones from sticking and making cleanup easier.
- Wire baking rack: A wire baking rack is used to cool the baked scones evenly and prevent them from becoming soggy on the bottom.
- Small bowl: A small bowl is used to mix and whisk together the ingredients for the vanilla glaze.
- Whisk: A whisk is used to combine the ingredients for the vanilla glaze until smooth and well mixed.
How To Store and Freeze Pumpkin Scones
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for the pumpkin scones recipe:
- Once the scones have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, place a piece of bread in the container with the scones to absorb any excess moisture.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the scones for up to 2 months. Wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag with the date so you can keep track of when they were frozen.
- To thaw frozen scones, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour. You can also reheat them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
- If you want to freeze the scones before baking, shape the dough into scones and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the scones until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, remove the scones from the freezer and let them thaw for about 30 minutes before brushing with buttermilk and baking as directed in the recipe.
- To maintain the best texture and flavor, it's recommended to glaze the scones just before serving. If you have leftover glazed scones, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover Pumpkin Scones
The best way to reheat leftover pumpkin scones is to warm them up in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. This method will help restore their original texture and flavor.
Another option is to use a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the scones on the wire rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't burn.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat the scones in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds at a time, checking after each interval. Be aware that microwaving may cause the scones to become slightly soggy.
For a crispy exterior, you can also reheat the scones in a skillet or griddle. Melt a small amount of butter in the pan over medium heat. Place the scones in the pan and heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy.
If your scones have become a bit stale, you can refresh them by wrapping them in a damp paper towel before reheating in the microwave or oven. The moisture from the paper towel will help soften the scones and restore some of their original texture.
Random Fact About Pumpkin Scones
The pumpkin scones recipe is a popular treat at the famous coffee chain Starbucks.
Is Making Pumpkin Scones at Home Economical?
The cost-effectiveness of this pumpkin scones recipe is quite high. The ingredients are commonly found in households, and the recipe yields 8 scones, making it suitable for a family of 4. The cost of ingredients is relatively low, with flour, sugar, and pumpkin puree being affordable. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering the simplicity, flavor, and cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $8-$10, making it a budget-friendly and delightful treat.
Are Pumpkin Scones Healthy or Unhealthy?
The pumpkin scones recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of butter and brown sugar, which are high in saturated fat and added sugars, respectively. These ingredients can contribute to weight gain and increased risk of chronic diseases if consumed in excess.
- All-purpose flour is used, which is a refined carbohydrate that lacks fiber and essential nutrients found in whole grain alternatives.
- The vanilla glaze adds an extra layer of sugar to the already sweet scones, further increasing the overall sugar content of the treat.
However, the recipe does incorporate some healthier ingredients, such as pumpkin puree, which is rich in vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants. Buttermilk also adds a slight protein and calcium boost to the scones.
To make the pumpkin scones healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour or oat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value of the scones
- Reduce the amount of brown sugar by 25-50% and experiment with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey to add depth of flavor
- Use a mix of butter and heart-healthy oil, such as coconut or olive oil, to decrease the saturated fat content
- Incorporate additional spices like nutmeg or ginger to enhance the flavor profile without relying on extra sugar
- Opt for a lighter glaze or skip it altogether, letting the natural sweetness of the pumpkin shine through
Editor's Thoughts on This Pumpkin Scones Recipe
The pumpkin scones recipe is a delightful treat for the fall season. The combination of warm spices and pumpkin creates a comforting and aromatic scone. The texture is tender and moist, and the vanilla glaze adds a touch of sweetness. The recipe is well-written and easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. These scones would be perfect for a cozy brunch or as a sweet snack with a cup of tea. Overall, this recipe is a winner and is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.
Enhance Your Pumpkin Scones Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Pumpkin Scones
Why trust this Pumpkin Scones Recipe:
I have crafted this pumpkin scones recipe with a perfect balance of pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice to create a warm and comforting flavor. The use of buttermilk ensures a tender crumb, while the vanilla glaze adds a delightful sweetness. Trust in the quality of this recipe, as it has been meticulously tested and perfected to guarantee a delightful baking experience.
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