Pumpkin Scones

If you’re looking for a cozy treat to enjoy during the crisp days of fall, these Pumpkin Scones are just the thing! They are fluffy, flavorful, and perfect for everything from a quick breakfast to an afternoon snack with tea. I love how they fill the kitchen with that warm, spiced aroma that makes you feel right at home. Plus, they’re easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight or special enough for family gatherings.

These scones are not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or saving some for later, they bring that autumn spirit to any occasion. Trust me—once you try this recipe, it will become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: With just a few basic ingredients, these scones come together quickly and easily.
• Perfectly spiced: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger gives these Pumpkin Scones a delightful warmth that’s perfect for fall.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves a good scone! The optional chocolate chips add an extra touch of sweetness that kids adore.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh whenever you need a treat!
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy them plain, drizzled with cream cheese frosting, or even paired with your favorite jam.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to make these delightful Pumpkin Scones!

For the Scone Mixture

• 2 1/2 cups flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (firmly packed)
• 1 Tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ginger
• 1/2 cup cold butter (cut into pieces)
• 1 cup pure pumpkin
• 4 Tablespoon milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 2 Tablespoon butter
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon maple flavoring
• Dash of salt

For the Pumpkin Drizzle

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 Tablespoon milk
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 Tablespoon milk
• 1 Tablespoon pure pumpkin puree
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger

Variations

One of the best things about these Pumpkin Scones is how flexible they can be! Feel free to get creative with these ideas:

• Add nuts: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for an added crunch.
• Go fruity: Toss in some dried cranberries or raisins for a burst of sweetness.
• Spice it up: If you love spice, try adding more ginger or even some allspice for an extra kick.
• Frosting swap: Experiment with different frostings like cream cheese or lemon glaze—both pair wonderfully!

How to Make Pumpkin Scones

Step 1: Preheat and Mix Dry Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. In a large bowl, combine your flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures an even distribution of flavors throughout your scones.

Step 2: Cut in Butter

Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter until mixed in well; aim for pieces no larger than pea size. This step is crucial as it helps create those lovely flaky layers we all adore in scones.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, milk, and egg until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and richness to our scones while infusing them with that delicious pumpkin flavor.

Step 4: Fold Together

Slowly fold the pumpkin mixture into your dry ingredients until they just come together. If you’re adding chocolate chips, now’s the time! This gentle folding helps maintain airiness in the dough—no one wants dense scones!

Step 5: Form the Dough

Turn your dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently about 5-6 times until smooth. Flatten it into a round circle about ½ inch thick. This method gives us those lovely triangle shapes once we cut them!

Step 6: Cut and Bake

Using a pizza cutter or knife, slice the circle into 8 triangles. Place them on a parchment-lined cookie sheet and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and when tested with a toothpick comes out clean.

And there you have it—delicious homemade Pumpkin Scones ready to enjoy! Whether you eat them warm from the oven or let them cool for later treats, they’re sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Scones

Baking is often about the little details, and these tips will help you create the most delightful pumpkin scones!

• Use cold butter – Chilling your butter ensures it doesn’t fully melt into the dough, which helps create flakier scones with a tender crumb.

• Don’t overmix – When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense scones rather than light and airy ones.

• Experiment with spices – Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding more cinnamon or a pinch of cardamom can give your scones a unique flavor profile that’s perfect for fall.

• Keep an eye on baking time – Ovens can vary, so start checking your scones a minute or two before the recommended baking time. You want them golden brown but not overdone!

• Let them cool slightly before frosting – Allowing your scones to cool for a few minutes before adding frosting helps it adhere better and prevents it from melting away into a puddle.

How to Serve Pumpkin Scones

These pumpkin scones are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts – Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting for added texture and nutty flavor.
• Cinnamon sugar dusting – A light dusting of cinnamon sugar right before serving adds an extra touch of sweetness and enhances the aromatic spices.
• Fresh herbs – A few sprigs of mint or rosemary can provide a lovely contrast in color and a refreshing note alongside the warm flavors of pumpkin.

Side Dishes

• Warm apple cider – Serve alongside a cup of warm apple cider for a cozy autumn experience that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin flavor.
• Spiced chai tea – The warming spices in chai tea complement the scone’s flavors perfectly, offering a comforting beverage option.
• Fruit salad – A light fruit salad can balance out the richness of the scones. Consider using seasonal fruits like pears, apples, and pomegranate seeds for color and freshness.
• Yogurt parfaits – Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a refreshing side that adds both creaminess and crunch, making for an enjoyable breakfast or dessert spread.

Enjoy these pumpkin scones as part of your fall gatherings, cozy weekends, or simply as an indulgent treat. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Scones are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. They store well and maintain their delightful flavor, making them a fantastic treat to have on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the scones to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator where they can last about a week.

Freezing

• Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped scones in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the scones on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through.
• If reheating from room temperature, just pop them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delicious Pumpkin Scones!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! Fresh pumpkin can be used as long as it’s pureed smooth. Make sure it’s well-drained to avoid adding too much moisture.

What makes these Pumpkin Scones so special?

These Pumpkin Scones are not only packed with fall flavors but also topped with a delicious cream cheese frosting that takes them over the top. Perfect for breakfast or dessert!

How can I customize my Pumpkin Scones?

Feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or different spices according to your taste preferences. The recipe is flexible!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Pumpkin Scones as much as I do! They bring warmth and comfort during those chilly fall days, and they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner baker, and let the sweet aroma fill your kitchen. Happy baking!