How to Make the Best Pumpkin Scones for a Cozy Fall Day

As the leaves transform into brilliant shades of orange and gold, kitchens everywhere begin to fill with the warm aroma of spice and pumpkin. Who can resist a warm pumpkin scone on a crisp fall day? Whether you enjoy them with tea during a cozy afternoon or as a delightful breakfast treat, these scones are sure to hit the spot. In this post, we’ll explore how to make the best pumpkin scones that will not only warm your heart but also fill your home with the irresistible scents of autumn.

Homemade pumpkin scones fresh out of the oven.

Why Pumpkin Scones?

Pumpkin scones perfectly blend the rich flavor of pumpkin with the cozy spices of cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s a treat that celebrates fall and brings the comforting essence of home baking to life. According to a survey, 65% of people believe that pumpkin-flavored treats are a must-have during the fall season. The beauty of pumpkin scones is their versatility; you can enhance them with chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits. However, starting with the classic pumpkin spice version is essential for any true fall lover.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start the baking process, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 3 Tablespoons granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cold unsalted butter, cubed

• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree

• 3 1/2 Tablesppons of buttermilk

• 1 large egg

• 1 Tablesppon Honey

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  
  

• Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts

  
  

• Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 Tablespoons cream

  
  

Ensure you have your mixing bowls and baking sheets ready!

Preparing Your Dough

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps your scones rise beautifully and gives them a crispy outside.

   
   

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugars, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves and salt. This dry mixture lays the foundation for your flavor.

   
   

3. Cut in the Butter: Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Aim for pea-sized pieces to ensure a flaky texture.

   
   

4. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, buttermilk, egg, vanilla and honey until fully mixed.

   
   

5. Bring It All Together: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently combine, adding in any chocolate chips or nuts at this stage. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!

   
   

Shaping Your Scones

1. Flour Your Surface: Lightly dust your countertop with flour and transfer the dough to the surface. Use floured hands to gently shape it into a rectangle about 1-inch thick.

   
   

2. Cutting the Scones: With a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into triangles or rectangles based on your preference.

   
   

3. Bake!: Arrange the scones on a parchment-lined baking sheet. For an extra touch, brush the tops with cream and sprinkle with sugar before popping them in the oven. This step gives your scones a lovely golden crust!

   
   

4. Timing Is Key: Bake the scones for about 13 -15 minutes. They should be lightly golden around the edges. Keep a close eye on them, as different ovens may vary in heat levels!

   
   

5. Glaze: In a mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and cream, adding more cream as needed to reach desired consistency. Drizzle over scones.

   
   

A tasty pumpkin scone shared with friends.

Enjoying Your Pumpkin Scones

Let your scones cool for a few minutes once they come out of the oven. They are delightful either warm or at room temperature. Try serving them without glaze if looking for a little less sweetness.

These pumpkin scones pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. If you manage to save any leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to three days—though they might not last long with how tasty they are!

A Sweet Note on Baking

Baking pumpkin scones can be a fun and satisfying experience, especially as the fall season ushers in gatherings and celebrations. With their rich spices and comforting pumpkin flavor, these scones are bound to become a favorite in your home.

Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a cozy baking adventure. Your kitchen is about to smell incredible, and your friends and family will be eager to enjoy this scrumptious seasonal treat. Happy baking!