Pumpkin Scones

This pumpkin scones recipe is a delightful treat for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy autumn morning or a festive gathering with friends. The combination of warm spices and the sweet, earthy flavor of pumpkin makes these scones irresistible. Drizzled with a light vanilla glaze, they are perfect for pairing with your favorite warm beverage or serving at brunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than an hour, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and spices creates a warm and inviting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a dessert option.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for an extra twist or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These scones are sure to impress guests at any gathering with their beautiful presentation and delightful aroma.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your pumpkin scones, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter (or two forks)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Wire cooling rack
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of ingredients without spills.
• Pastry cutter: This tool helps incorporate cold butter into the flour efficiently for a flaky texture.
• Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even baking and browning of your scones.

Ingredients

This pumpkin scones recipe is quick and easy to make, drizzled with a light vanilla glaze, and full of the best cozy pumpkin flavors.

For the Scones

• 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

For the Glaze

• 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

How to Make Pumpkin Scones

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until evenly combined.

Step 2: Cut in Butter

Add the diced butter. Use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until crumbly. The mixture should have pea-sized chunks of butter.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the pumpkin purée, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Use a spatula to gently stir until no dry streaks remain. Avoid over-mixing to keep the scones tender.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Turn the mixture onto a floured surface. Fold the dough over itself until it holds together but remains slightly sticky. Pat into an 8-inch circle and slice into 8 wedges.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the wedges to a parchment-covered baking sheet with at least 2 inches apart. Freeze for about 15 minutes while preheating your oven to 425°F.

Step 6: Bake Scones

Brush each scone with buttermilk before placing them in the oven. Bake for 13-15 minutes until lightly golden on top. Cool on a wire rack.

Step 7: Prepare Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, buttermilk (or milk), and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust thickness by adding more powdered sugar if needed.

Once cooled slightly, drizzle or brush glaze over the scones. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Pumpkin Scones

Pumpkin scones are versatile and perfect for various occasions. They can be served as a delightful breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or even at a cozy gathering with friends. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your pumpkin scone experience.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair your pumpkin scones with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverages complements the cozy flavors of the scones perfectly.

Spreadable Toppings

• Consider adding cream cheese or flavored butter on top of your warm scones. These spreads add a creamy texture that enhances the pumpkin flavor.

Fruit Compote

• Serve your pumpkin scones with a side of fruit compote, such as apple or cranberry. The sweet-tart flavors of the compote balance nicely with the rich taste of the scones.

Whipped Cream

• For an indulgent treat, top your pumpkin scones with freshly whipped cream. This light addition brings a touch of sweetness and creaminess.

Savory Pairings

• Enjoy your pumpkin scones alongside a savory soup, such as butternut squash or tomato basil. The combination makes for a comforting meal.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Scones

To ensure your pumpkin scones turn out fluffy and flavorful, consider these helpful tips.

• Use cold butter: Cold salted butter helps create flakiness in the scones. Make sure it’s diced or grated before mixing.
• Don’t over-mix: Gently stir the ingredients until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to dense scones.
• Chill before baking: Placing the cut dough in the freezer for 15 minutes helps maintain shape while baking.
• Check for doneness: Keep an eye on your scones towards the end of baking. They should be lightly golden on top.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add extra spices like ginger or cardamom for added depth in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Scones

Pairing side dishes with your pumpkin scones can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Chai Tea: A spiced chai tea brings warm flavors that match well with pumpkin, creating a cozy drink pairing.
2. Apple Cider: Sweetened apple cider adds a fruity contrast, making it a refreshing complement to pumpkin scones.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a balanced breakfast alongside your scones.
4. Vegetable Soup: A creamy vegetable soup offers warmth and complements the sweetness of the pumpkin.
5. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast that pairs beautifully.
6. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin scones can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome.

• Bold phrase: Overmixing the dough. To achieve a light and fluffy texture, mix the ingredients until just combined; avoid overworking the dough.
• Bold phrase: Incorrect oven temperature. Always preheat your oven to the right temperature before baking to ensure even cooking and perfect scone texture.
• Bold phrase: Not chilling the dough. Chilling the dough helps maintain its shape while baking, so don’t skip this step!
• Bold phrase: Using warm butter. Cold butter is crucial for creating flaky scones, so make sure your butter is very cold before adding it to the mixture.
• Bold phrase: Skipping the glaze. The vanilla glaze adds extra flavor and presentation, so don’t forget to drizzle it on once your scones have cooled.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin scones in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep them in a single layer to avoid squishing.

Freezing Pumpkin Scones

• Place fully cooled pumpkin scones in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with the date.

Reheating Pumpkin Scones

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat for about 15-20 seconds on high power. Be careful not to overheat as they may become tough.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have more questions about making pumpkin scones, here are some common inquiries.

What makes pumpkin scones different from regular scones?

Pumpkin scones incorporate pumpkin purée, which adds moisture and a unique flavor profile that is perfect for fall.

Can I substitute other types of flour in my pumpkin scones?

Yes! You can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free blends; however, be aware that this may change the texture slightly.

How can I customize my pumpkin scones?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits like cranberries for added texture and flavor variation.

How should I store leftover pumpkin scones?

Store any leftover pumpkin scones in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

This pumpkin scones recipe is both delicious and versatile, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat. You can easily customize these scones by adding chocolate chips or nuts according to your preference. Give this recipe a try and enjoy all the cozy flavors of fall!