If you are craving a cozy treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall, the Cinnamon Pumpkin Scones Recipe is your new go-to favorite. These scones are tender and flaky, bursting with warm spices and the rich sweetness of pumpkin, making every bite a delightful balance between comfort and elegance. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning with a cup of coffee or hosting a festive brunch, these Cinnamon Pumpkin Scones provide the ideal combination of comforting flavors and irresistible texture that will keep you reaching for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet flavorful ingredients is the first step to making these scones shine. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture, taste, and inviting color that makes this Cinnamon Pumpkin Scones Recipe so special.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of our scones, providing structure and that delightful crumb.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness without overpowering the spices.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the scones rise beautifully, making them light and fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the scones with that signature warming spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Offers a subtle kick and complements the cinnamon well.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds depth and a hint of nuttiness to the spice blend.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Just a pinch to enhance the autumnal flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and spices perfectly.
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes: The secret to flakiness and richness.
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree: Brings moistness and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
- 1/3 cup heavy cream: Adds tenderness and a luxurious texture to the dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the natural sweetness and rounds out the spices.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together and gives the scones a beautiful golden color.
- Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon—this sweet finish ties the whole scone experience together.
How to Make Cinnamon Pumpkin Scones Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple preparation ensures even baking and easy cleanup, setting you up for success from the start.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This combination creates the flavor-packed base for your scones, ensuring every bite is bursting with autumn spices.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold butter cubes to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour mixture until it looks like coarse crumbs. This step is crucial as those small butter lumps create the flaky texture we all love.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth. The pumpkin provides moisture and an irresistible earthy sweetness that makes these scones truly stand out.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently mix until just combined. Be careful to avoid over-mixing, which could make the scones tough instead of tender and flaky.
Step 6: Shape and Cut the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a 1-inch thick circle. Then cut the circle into 8 wedges for that classic scone shape. This hands-on part is always fun and makes your kitchen smell amazing!
Step 7: Arrange and Bake
Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet with about 2 inches of space between each. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the scones are lightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen by this point is pure magic.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
While they bake, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and cinnamon together until smooth to make a simple but luscious glaze that perfectly complements the spices in the scones.
Step 9: Glaze and Cool
Let the scones cool slightly on a wire rack before drizzling the glaze on top. This finishing touch adds sweetness and a delicate spiced shine that makes the scones irresistible.
How to Serve Cinnamon Pumpkin Scones Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg on top of the glaze for an eye-catching finish. You can also add chopped pecans or a light dusting of powdered sugar to make these scones look as good as they taste.
Side Dishes
Pair your scones with a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of cream cheese for a rich contrast. Fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries also offers a refreshing balance to the warm spices of the scones.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these scones in a rustic basket lined with a cozy linen napkin for a charming fall brunch vibe. For an elegant twist, arrange them on a tiered cake stand alongside mini pumpkin muffins or spiced tea cookies.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover scones fresh by placing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This way, they retain their tender crumb and moist interior without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these scones ahead of time, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag for up to three months. When you’re ready, just thaw at room temperature.
Reheating
Reheat scones gently in a 300°F oven for 5 to 10 minutes to revive their freshness and bring back that baked-from-scratch warmth. Avoid microwaving as it can make them rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Fresh pumpkin can be used, but it will need to be cooked and pureed first, then drained slightly to remove excess moisture to prevent soggy scones.
Is it possible to make these scones dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based option and use coconut cream or another non-dairy milk in place of heavy cream and milk for the glaze.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely, adding chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or dried cranberries can give extra texture and flavor that pairs beautifully with the warm spices.
How do I know when the scones are fully baked?
They’ll be golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
What is the best way to serve these scones for a breakfast gathering?
Serve warm with a selection of jams, clotted cream, or honey on the side alongside hot coffee or spiced tea to delight your guests.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making and sharing the Cinnamon Pumpkin Scones Recipe. These scones bring warmth, spice, and seasonal comfort into your kitchen in the most delicious way. I encourage you to try them for your next fall gathering or as a sweet treat to brighten any morning—you won’t regret it!
