Fall is here, and so is the perfect treat—Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones! These soft, spiced scones are bursting with flavor and drizzled with a sweet maple glaze. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly day or entertaining friends, these scones are sure to impress. Join me as I share my favorite recipe, tips, and tricks to make these delightful fall treats at home. Let’s bake some joy together!
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the maple glaze, you will need:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon milk (more if needed for consistency)
These ingredients create a warm, spiced flavor. The pumpkin pairs well with the maple glaze. The cold butter helps the scones rise, giving them a light texture. Each ingredient plays a role in making these scones a delightful treat for fall.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– In a large bowl, whisk these dry ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Incorporating Ingredients
– Add 1/2 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter into the dry mix. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter. Blend until it looks like coarse crumbs.
– In a separate bowl, whisk together:
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Mix until smooth and creamy.
Shaping and Baking
– Pour the wet mix into the dry mix. Stir gently. Be careful not to overmix. The dough should feel slightly sticky.
– Move the dough to a floured surface. Pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick.
– Cut the dough into 8 wedges or use a biscuit cutter for round scones.
– Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet.
– Bake for 15-20 minutes. They should be lightly golden. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones
To perfect your maple glazed pumpkin scones, keep these tips in mind:
– Avoid overmixing: Mix the dough just until it comes together. Overmixing can make the scones tough. You want a tender, flaky texture.
– How to achieve the right glaze consistency: For the glaze, start with the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk. Whisk until smooth. If it’s too thick, add more milk, a little at a time. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar. You want it to drizzle nicely over the scones.
Presentation Suggestions
Serving these scones well adds to the experience:
– Creative ways to serve: Arrange the scones on a rustic wooden platter. Add some sprigs of rosemary or colorful autumn leaves for a seasonal touch.
– Pairing recommendations: Enjoy the scones with hot cider or a warm cup of tea. The flavors blend well and enhance your fall experience.
Variations
Flavor Tweaks
You can make these scones even better with simple tweaks. Adding chocolate chips gives a sweet touch. Use semi-sweet or dark chips for a rich flavor. Just fold in about 1 cup of chips at the end. This adds a nice surprise in every bite.
Incorporating nuts also enhances the texture. Chopped walnuts or pecans bring a lovely crunch. Use about 1/2 cup of nuts, and fold them into the dough. This adds flavor and heartiness to your scones.
Dietary Adjustments
For those needing gluten-free options, you can switch the flour. Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. This works well with the other ingredients. Just make sure it has a binding agent like xanthan gum. This will help your scones hold together.
If you’re looking for vegan substitutions, swap the butter and egg. Use coconut oil or a vegan butter in place of regular butter. For the egg, you can use a flax egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. This will help bind your scones without using eggs.
These variations let everyone enjoy the taste of maple glazed pumpkin scones.
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To keep your maple glazed pumpkin scones fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and air out. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers if you stack them. These scones taste best within 2-3 days.
Long-term Storage
If you want to save scones for later, freezing is a great option. Wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag or container. They will stay good for up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy your scones, take them out and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheating is simple; just pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will warm them up and keep them soft. You can also microwave them for 15-20 seconds if you’re in a hurry. Enjoy your scones warm for the best flavor!
FAQs
Common Questions
How to tell when scones are done?
Scones are done when they turn lightly golden. A toothpick should come out clean from the center. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes at 400°F. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough a day ahead. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge. When ready, shape and bake the scones straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?
You can use butternut squash puree or sweet potato puree. Both give a nice flavor. Just ensure they are smooth and unsweetened for the best results.
How long do scones last?
Scones last for about 2-3 days at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can also freeze them for up to a month.
Can I use a different glaze?
Absolutely! You can swap the maple glaze for a simple lemon glaze or a cream cheese frosting. Just mix powdered sugar with lemon juice or cream cheese for a different taste.
This article covered how to make delicious maple glazed pumpkin scones. We looked at all the ingredients you need and shared step-by-step instructions. I included tips to help you perfect your scones and offered fun variations. Remember to store your scones properly to keep them fresh. With this guide, you can impress friends and family with your tasty treats. Now it’s time for you to bake and enjoy them! Happy baking!
