As the cozy spirit of fall envelops us, I find myself reminiscing about the comforting aroma of freshly baked scones wafting through the air. There’s something truly magical about the combination of warm spices and pumpkin that warms not only the kitchen but also the heart. Inspired by these autumn days, I’m excited to share my Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones—a delightful treat that elevates any breakfast or afternoon snack.
Made with rich pumpkin puree, these scones boast a flaky texture that melts in your mouth, enhanced perfectly by a light drizzle of maple glaze. They’re simple enough for everyday enjoyment yet elegant enough to impress a crowd. Whether you’re uniting with friends over coffee or savoring a quiet moment with tea, these scones are that touch of cozy home that often feels elusive in our busy lives. Ready to indulge in this seasonal treasure? Let’s get baking!
Why love Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones?
Comforting Warmth: The blend of pumpkin and spices envelops your senses, filling your kitchen with the essence of fall.
Easy to Make: With only a few simple ingredients, these scones are a breeze to whip up—perfect for both novice and experienced bakers!
Versatile Treat: Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, they pair wonderfully with coffee and tea, making them a crowd favorite.
Flaky Delight: The secret of using frozen butter creates an irresistibly flaky texture that melts in your mouth.
Sweet Finish: The light maple glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness, elevating your scone experience to a whole new level.
Perfect for Gatherings: These scones are sure to impress guests at brunch or holiday gatherings, becoming a seasonal staple in your baking repertoire.
Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones Ingredients
For the Scones
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and a strong base for the scones; gluten-free flour can be used as a great substitute.
• Baking Powder – Gives the scones lift; always ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds a warm, cozy spice; you can also experiment with pumpkin pie spice for an extra autumn twist.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Enhances those beloved fall flavors; if unavailable, use equal parts nutmeg and ginger instead.
• Salt – Essential for balancing the sweetness in this delightful recipe.
• Frozen Unsalted Butter – Creates that flaky texture when grated; avoid softened butter to keep them light and airy.
• Heavy Cream – Adds richness and moisture; feel free to swap it out with milk or a dairy-free alternative.
• Large Egg – Binds all the ingredients together for a cohesive dough; consider a flax egg as an egg substitute for a vegan option.
• Canned Pumpkin Puree – Provides the moist base and classic pumpkin flavor; be sure to use plain puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds a subtle sweetness and deep flavor; white sugar or coconut sugar can also be used as alternatives.
• Vanilla Extract – Intensifies all the flavors; using pure vanilla makes all the difference.
• Coarse Sugar (optional) – Offers a delightful crunch topping; regular sugar can stand in if coarse sugar isn’t on hand.
For the Maple Glaze
• Unsalted Butter – The base for a luscious glaze; melting it ensures a smooth finish.
• Pure Maple Syrup – Adds a warm, natural sweetness that perfectly complements the pumpkin; always go for pure syrup for the best flavor.
• Confectioners’ Sugar – Thickens the glaze for a delightful drizzle; sift before mixing for a lump-free consistency.
How to Make Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined and airy.
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Incorporate Butter: Grate the frozen unsalted butter into the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter, combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, ensuring a flaky texture.
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Blend Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, large egg, canned pumpkin puree, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth; drizzle this mix into the flour blend and stir gently until just moistened.
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Form Dough: Lightly flour your work surface and gently bring the dough together, forming an 8-inch disc, or two smaller 5-inch discs for mini scones.
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Cut Scones: Use a sharp knife to cut the dough into 8 or 16 wedges, placing them on the prepared baking sheets; if you like, brush the tops with a bit of heavy cream and sprinkle with coarse sugar for added texture.
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Bake: Place the scones in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes for larger scones or 18–20 minutes for mini ones, until they are lightly browned and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
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Prepare Glaze: In a small saucepan, melt unsalted butter and pure maple syrup over low heat; once melted, whisk in the confectioners’ sugar until smooth, then drizzle over the warm scones before serving.
Optional: For a touch of extra sweetness, serve with a dollop of whipped cream.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones?
Picture yourself on a crisp autumn morning, wrapped in a cozy blanket with a warm scone in hand, while the scent of spices fills the air.
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Hot Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of coffee perfectly balance the sweetness of the scones, creating a comforting morning ritual. A latte or cappuccino elevates this cozy moment even further.
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Chai Tea: Aromatic and slightly spicy, chai offers a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the scones, warming you from the inside out. Enjoy it with a sprinkle of cinnamon for added warmth.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream transforms your pumpkin scones into an indulgent treat. The light, airy texture complements their flaky goodness, making every bite heavenly.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the season by pairing these scones with a pumpkin spice latte. The familiar flavors in your drink will enhance the overall pumpkin experience!
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Fruity Jam: Try serving your scones with a side of homemade apple or cranberry jam. The tangy notes contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the glazed scones, providing an exciting burst of flavor.
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Apple Cider: Warm or cold, apple cider’s fruity essence and subtle spices elevate the fall experience. The drink’s sweetness pairs beautifully with the pumpkin scones, creating a comforting combination.
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Chocolate Chips: For a sweet twist, serve your scones warm with dark chocolate chips on the side. The rich chocolate contrasts wonderfully with the spices, offering a delightful treat.
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Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon sugar over your scones right after baking for an extra layer of flavor that compliments the pumpkin and adds a sweet crunch.
Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones Variations
Get ready to elevate your baking game with these flavorful twists!
- Chocolate Chip Surprise: Add ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a delightful chocolatey contrast that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a delicious crunch and rustic texture. They will provide a lovely flavor complement to the scones!
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Instead of coarse sugar, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar on top before baking for a sweet, spiced crust. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Cream Cheese Glaze: Swap the maple glaze for a tangy cream cheese frosting for a richer, dessert-like treat. It’s a fun variation that adds a luscious layer!
- Pumpkin Spice Cake Mix: Use pumpkin spice cake mix instead of flour and baking powder to save time and add additional sweetness. It’s perfect for when you need a quick treat!
- Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use plant-based butter to make these scones dairy-free without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños for a surprising heat that will warm you from the inside out—perfect for adventurous eaters!
- Fruit Fusion: Incorporate ½ cup of dried cranberries or chopped apples for a fruity twist that complements the pumpkin perfectly. Your taste buds will thank you!
Storage Tips for Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones
Room Temperature: Store scones in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
Fridge: If you want to keep them a bit longer, you can refrigerate the scones, but be mindful that they may dry out. Aim to consume within 5 days for best taste.
Freezer: Freeze baked maple glazed pumpkin scones without the glaze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Wrap them separately for easy thawing.
Reheating: To enjoy, warm frozen scones in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, then drizzle with fresh maple glaze before serving!
Expert Tips for Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones
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Don’t Overwork Dough: Gently mix the dough to avoid tough scones; overworking results in a dense texture instead of the desired fluffy, flaky finish.
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Use Frozen Butter: Always grate frozen unsalted butter into the mixture, as it creates that flaky texture needed in your scones. Avoid room temperature butter for best results.
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Moisture Check: Blot canned pumpkin puree with paper towels before adding it to the mixture to eliminate excess moisture that can make scones too wet.
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Sharp Knife for Cutting: Use a sharp knife to cut the scones cleanly; this encourages better rise and shape during baking, ensuring their lovely, flaky layers.
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always check the freshness of your baking powder; stale leavening agents can lead to dense scones lacking in the lightness essential for pumpkin scones.
Make Ahead Options
These Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic mornings! You can prepare the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can also mix the wet ingredients and refrigerate them overnight, which allows flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine both mixtures, form your scones, and bake as directed. To maintain quality, ensure the grated butter remains frozen before mixing, as this is crucial for a flaky texture. Trust me, these scones will turn out just as delicious, making your mornings not only easier but also wonderfully cozy!
Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting canned pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When selecting canned pumpkin puree, ensure you’re choosing plain pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. Look for a vibrant color without any dark spots or separation, which can indicate poor quality. A good puree should have a smooth, thick consistency that easy to incorporate into your baking.
How do I store Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones to keep them fresh?
For optimum freshness, store your Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them, but they may dry out quicker. If refrigeration is your choice, aim to enjoy them within 5 days.
Can I freeze my Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones? What’s the best way to do this?
Certainly! To freeze your scones, first, make sure they’re completely cooled. Then, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. This way, they can last up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and then drizzle with fresh maple glaze before serving.
What can I do if my scone dough is too wet or too dry?
If your scone dough feels too wet, it might be due to excess moisture in the pumpkin puree. To fix this, just sprinkle a little more flour into the mixture, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the right texture. On the other hand, if the dough appears too dry, add a splash of cream or water gradually until the dough comes together. Remember, the goal is a slightly sticky but manageable dough that holds together.
Are Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones suitable for people with allergies?
Very! You can modify these scones for various dietary needs. For gluten-free diets, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For dairy allergies, consider using unsweetened almond or oat milk in place of heavy cream and a dairy-free butter alternative. If you’re making these for someone with egg allergies, a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit briefly) can work just as well. Always check all ingredients for any potential allergens.
What happens if I use softened butter instead of frozen butter?
Using softened butter can lead to dense, heavy scones rather than the lovely flaky texture we crave. Frozen butter, when grated into the flour mixture, creates small pockets of butter that steam during baking, resulting in the light and airy scones we love. It’s all about that perfect flake! So, to ensure a successful bake, stick with frozen unsalted butter for the best results.
Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones That Bring Fall to Your Table
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until combined.
- Grate the frozen unsalted butter into the flour mixture and combine until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, canned pumpkin puree, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth, then drizzle this into the flour blend and stir gently.
- Lightly flour your work surface and bring the dough together, forming an 8-inch disc, or two smaller discs.
- Cut the dough into wedges and place them on the baking sheets; brush with heavy cream and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes for larger scones or 18-20 minutes for mini scones until lightly browned.
- Melt the unsalted butter and maple syrup in a saucepan over low heat, whisk in confectioners' sugar until smooth, and drizzle over warm scones.