Introduction
Pumpkin scones are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. These scones are not only easy to make but also have a wonderful pumpkin flavor paired with warm spices. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, they can be enjoyed on their own or with your favorite spread. In this article, we will provide detailed ingredients, preparation time, cooking duration, and yield information to help you bake the best pumpkin scones.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– All-purpose flour: 2 cups
– Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup
– Baking powder: 2 tablespoons
– Ground cinnamon: 1 tablespoon
– Ground nutmeg: 1 teaspoon
– Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
– Cold unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), cubed
– Canned pumpkin puree: 1 cup
– Heavy cream: 1/4 cup
– Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
– Eggs: 1 large, lightly beaten
– Optional: Chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture
Prep Time
The total prep time for these delicious pumpkin scones is approximately 15-20 minutes. This includes measuring and mixing the ingredients for the dough.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for the pumpkin scones is about 20-25 minutes in the oven. Thus, the total time from start to finish is around 35-45 minutes. This recipe yields about 8 scones, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying throughout the week.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices (such as cinnamon and nutmeg) until fully combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, milk, vanilla extract, and egg until well blended.
Add Wet Ingredients to Dry Ingredients
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour the wet mixture into the well. Stir gently until the mixture is just combined. Do not overmix.
Add Butter
Cut cold butter into small pieces and add it to the dough. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, mix until the butter is evenly distributed and the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Shape the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead the dough a few times just to bring it together, then pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick.
Cut the Scones
Using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, cut the dough into wedges or use a round cutter to make circular scones. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush with Milk
Brush the tops of the scones with a little milk to give them a nice color while baking.
Bake
Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with your choice of toppings.
Notes
Storage
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing
These scones freeze well. To freeze, place cooled scones in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Variations
Feel free to add in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for added flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the scones with butter, cream, or a drizzle of glaze for extra sweetness.
Cook techniques
Mixing the Dough
It’s essential to gently mix the dough to avoid overworking it, which can lead to tough scones. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to incorporate the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Cutting in Butter
Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until you get pea-sized pieces. This technique is crucial for achieving a flaky texture in your scones.
Shaping the Scones
After mixing the dough, turn it out onto a floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick circle. Use a sharp knife or a cutter to slice into wedges or rounds for even cooking.
Baking Temperature
Bake the scones at a high temperature, around 400°F, to ensure they rise well and develop a golden crust while remaining tender inside.
Cooling
Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack after baking. This will help maintain their texture and prevent them from becoming soggy.
FAQ
Can I use different types of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends, but this may alter the texture and flavor slightly.
How can I ensure my scones are fluffy?
Make sure your baking powder is fresh, and handle the dough as little as possible to keep the scones light and fluffy.
Can I freeze the scones before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped scones. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to an airtight container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with pumpkin scones?
Pumpkin scones pair beautifully with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite jam. A warm cup of tea or coffee makes a perfect accompaniment as well.
How do I store leftover scones?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them, but they may lose some of their freshness.
Conclusion
Pumpkin scones are a delightful and seasonal treat that perfectly encapsulate the flavors of fall. Their soft and tender crumb, combined with warm spices, makes them an ideal accompaniment to your morning coffee or tea. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a batch that is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying to enjoy.
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