Pumpkin Scones with Spiced Glaze Recipe

If you have a soft spot for cozy fall flavors, you’re going to adore this Pumpkin Scones with Spiced Glaze Recipe. These scones strike the perfect balance between tender, flaky pastry and the warm spices that make pumpkin an autumnal favorite. The addition of the spiced glaze brings a sweet, smooth finish that turns every bite into a comforting moment of pure joy. Whether you’re planning a weekend brunch or an afternoon tea, these scones will quickly become a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to bake again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe, and you’ll be amazed at how simple yet essential these items are. Each one plays a special role, whether it’s adding moisture, tenderness, or that signature pumpkin flavor that makes these scones stand out.

• All-purpose flour (2 ¾ cups / 330 grams): The foundation for tender, flaky scones with just the right crumb.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup / 99 grams): Adds subtle sweetness without overpowering the spices.
• Baking powder (1 tablespoon): Leavens the dough for a light, airy bite.
• Pumpkin pie spice (2 teaspoons): Brings warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice notes that define the season.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances and balances all other flavors.
• Cold unsalted butter (½ cup / 113 grams), cubed: Creates those flaky layers that melt in your mouth.
• Buttermilk (½ cup / 118 ml): Adds a slight tang and tenderizes the dough.
• Pumpkin puree (½ cup / 113 grams): The star ingredient, bringing vibrant color and moist texture.
• Large egg (1): Helps bind ingredients and contributes to richness.
• Powdered sugar (1 ½ cups / 171 grams): The sweet base for the luscious spiced glaze.
• Milk (1 tablespoon): Thins the glaze for a perfect drizzle.
• Pumpkin pie spice (1 teaspoon for glaze): Infuses the glaze with cozy spice notes.

How to Make Pumpkin Scones with Spiced Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Puree

Before mixing, remove any excess moisture from your pumpkin puree by placing it between paper towels and pressing gently. This step helps prevent soggy scones and ensures that your dough achieves the perfect consistency.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This blend of dry ingredients creates the flavorful backbone of your scones, and mixing them thoroughly ensures even distribution of the spices and leavening.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add your cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry blender, cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized butter pieces still visible. These bits of butter will melt during baking, creating those irresistible flaky layers.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Whisk together buttermilk, pumpkin puree, and the egg in a separate bowl. This mixture not only adds moisture but also depth of flavor and richness that complement the spices perfectly.

Step 5: Form the Dough

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently fold with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your scones tender. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth.

Step 6: Laminate the Dough for Flakiness

Fold the dough in half and press down slightly, then rotate it 90 degrees and fold again. Repeat this folding process 4 to 5 times. This technique layers the dough, helping to create flakiness that makes these scones a delight to bite into.

Step 7: Shape and Chill

Shape your dough into an 8 to 10-inch disc that’s about 1.5 to 2 inches thick. Then pop it in the refrigerator for 5 to 10 minutes to relax the dough, making it easier to cut later and helping the scones retain their shape during baking.

Step 8: Cut and Freeze the Scones

Use a sharp knife to slice the chilled dough into 8 equal wedges. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat, then freeze for 30 minutes. Freezing helps the scones bake up with beautifully defined edges.

Step 9: Preheat and Optional Egg Wash

While the scones chill, preheat your oven to 400°F. For an extra golden and shiny finish, brush the tops with egg wash made from one egg beaten with a tablespoon of water. Sprinkle with coarse sanding sugar if you’d like a sweet crunch on top, though this step is entirely optional.

Step 10: Bake the Scones

Bake for 20 to 26 minutes until the scones are lightly golden brown and cooked through. Let them cool completely on a wire rack to prepare for glazing.

Step 11: Make the Spiced Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth. Drizzle this spiced glaze generously over the cooled scones for that irresistible finishing touch that ties the whole Pumpkin Scones with Spiced Glaze Recipe together beautifully.

How to Serve Pumpkin Scones with Spiced Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

A light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the glaze elevates the visual appeal and deepens the warm, autumnal flavor. For a little extra sparkle, add a handful of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts right after glazing.

Side Dishes

Serve these scones alongside a steaming cup of chai tea, coffee, or hot apple cider. The warming spices in the beverage will pair perfectly with the pumpkin and glaze, creating a balanced and comforting experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the scones on a rustic wooden platter, accented with fresh pumpkin slices and cinnamon sticks for a festive spread. For brunches, arrange the scones with a selection of spreads like honey butter or cream cheese for guests to personalize their bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps them stay tender and moist, perfect for enjoying the next morning with your favorite warm drink.

Freezing

If you want to prepare in advance, freeze the scones before baking as described in the recipe. You can also freeze fully baked and glazed scones by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil—use within a month for best flavor.

Reheating

To bring frozen or stored scones back to life, warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through. This method keeps their texture flaky and fresh, almost as if they were just made.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly as long as it’s 100% pure pumpkin without added sugars or spices. Just be sure to press out any excess moisture to avoid soggy scones.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix ½ cup of milk with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle before using in the recipe—this adds the same tangy tenderness.

Can I skip the glaze, or use a different topping?

You can definitely skip the glaze if you prefer less sweetness, but it adds a lovely finishing touch. Alternatively, try a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a cream cheese frosting for a richer option.

How do I make the scones more flaky?

The lamination step—folding the dough multiple times—is the secret to flakiness here. Also, working with very cold butter and not overmixing the dough help ensure those perfect layers.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?

Of course! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or mini chocolate chips are delicious additions. Fold them into the dough gently before shaping to keep the integrity of your scones.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about biting into a perfectly tender, warmly spiced pumpkin scone that’s finished with a sweet glaze—and this Pumpkin Scones with Spiced Glaze Recipe delivers exactly that. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just to treat yourself, these scones bring a cozy feeling of fall to your kitchen and your plate. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your seasonal baking lineup!

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