Quick Pumpkin Scones
These pumpkin scones are flaky, tender baked pastries infused with warm spices and pumpkin puree. They come together quickly with simple ingredients, resulting in a soft, crumbly final texture that resembles a cozy fall treat, perfect for a spontaneous morning snack or afternoon tea.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter cut into small pieces
- 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon milk plus extra for brushing
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to blend the dry ingredients evenly.
- Add the cold, small pieces of butter to the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces.
- Stir in the pumpkin puree, milk, and vanilla extract just until the dough begins to come together. It will be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times to shape it into a disc about 1 inch thick.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the disc into 8 equal wedges, creating a classic scone shape.
- Arrange the wedges on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for spreading. Brush the tops lightly with a bit of milk for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the scones are golden brown around the edges, about 15 minutes. The house will fill with the warm scent of spices and baked bread.
- Remove the scones from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. They should be flaky, tender, and fragrant with pumpkin spice.
Notes
For extra flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon or sanding sugar on top before baking. These scones are best enjoyed warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.