Name: Pumpkin Scones
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 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

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Why make this recipe

Pumpkin scones are a perfect treat for fall. They are soft, warm, and filled with the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices. These scones are easy to make, and they fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven with a cup of coffee or tea. Plus, they make great snacks or desserts any time of the day!

How to make Pumpkin Scones

Ingredients:

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
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

Directions:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until evenly combined.
Add the diced butter. Use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture looks crumbly and the butter is in pea-sized chunks.
Add the pumpkin purée, milk, and vanilla extract. Use a spatula to gently stir until no dry streaks remain. Be careful not to over-mix the dough.
Turn the mixture onto a floured surface and fold the dough a few times until it holds together. It will be a bit sticky, which is normal. Pat the dough into an 8-inch circle.
Use a large knife to slice the dough into 8 equal wedges. Transfer the wedges to a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 15 minutes while preheating the oven to 425°F.
Brush the tops of the scones with a bit of buttermilk. Bake for 13-15 minutes or until they are lightly golden and cooked through. Move them to a wire rack to cool.
In a small bowl, whisk together the glaze ingredients. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar. Once the scones have cooled slightly, brush or drizzle the glaze on top. Serve and enjoy!

How to serve Pumpkin Scones

Pumpkin scones are best enjoyed warm. You can serve them plain or with a delicious glaze on top. Pair them with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a perfect autumn treat. They are also great for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack.

How to store Pumpkin Scones

Store leftover pumpkin scones in an airtight container. They can stay fresh at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave for a few seconds.

Tips to make Pumpkin Scones

Use very cold butter to get flaky scones. You can even freeze the butter for a few minutes before using it.
Don’t over-mix the dough; it should be just combined for the best texture.
Experiment with spices! You can add cinnamon, ginger, or cardamom to enhance the flavor.

Variation

For a twist, you can add chocolate chips or nuts to the dough. Dried cranberries or pecans also make great additions, giving your scones a unique taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth.

2. What can I use instead of buttermilk?
You can use regular milk or make your own buttermilk by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

3. How do I know when the scones are done?
The scones should be lightly golden on top and cooked through. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Enjoy making and sharing these delicious pumpkin scones!