When the autumn breeze starts to carry hints of woodsmoke and dried leaves, it’s the perfect time to fill your kitchen with the cozy warmth of freshly baked goodies. There’s something undeniably comforting about Pumpkin Cinnamon Scones—a treat that takes humble pantry staples and transforms them into golden wedges bursting with fall flavors. With every swirl of cinnamon sugar on top, you’re greeted by a delicate crunch that gives way to a tender, buttery crumb inside. The rich pumpkin puree infuses each bite with a subtle sweetness and moist texture, while a blend of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger creates that familiar pumpkin spice profile we all adore. As the scones bake for just under twenty minutes, your home will feel like a warm hug, inviting you to slow down, savor the moment, and linger over a steaming cup of coffee or tea.
These scones are truly beginner-friendly, requiring just 15 minutes of prep time, 16 minutes in the oven, and a brief five-minute rest before they’re ready to enjoy. At around 200 calories per scone, they make a delightful breakfast or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. Whether you’re sharing them at a leisurely weekend brunch, packing them for workday fuel, or offering them alongside dessert, they’re sure to impress every time. Warm up your mornings with these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Scones and let their cozy aroma and tender crumb bring a bit of seasonal magic to your table.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN PUMPKIN CINNAMON SCONES
Every great recipe starts with quality ingredients, and these Pumpkin Cinnamon Scones are no exception. Here’s a closer look at what goes into our fall-inspired treat and why each component plays an essential role in achieving that perfect balance of texture and flavor:
- All-purpose flour
Provides the structural backbone for the scones, giving them that tender yet sturdy crumb that holds together beautifully when sliced into wedges.
- Brown sugar
Adds a hint of molasses sweetness and moisture to the dough, complementing the pumpkin while enhancing the overall golden color.
- Baking powder
Works as the leavening agent that helps the scones rise and develop that light, flaky texture we love.
- Salt
Balances the sweetness and brings out the warm spice notes, ensuring the flavors don’t taste flat.
- Ground cinnamon
Infuses each bite with classic warmth and spice, making these scones unmistakably pumpkin-pie inspired.
- Ground nutmeg
Lends a peppery sweetness and depth that pairs gorgeously with both pumpkin and cinnamon.
- Ground ginger
Introduces a subtle zing that brightens the overall flavor profile and complements the richer spices.
- Cold unsalted butter
Cut into small pieces, it creates pockets of buttery richness throughout the dough, resulting in a tender, flaky interior.
- Canned pumpkin puree
Provides that distinct pumpkin flavor and vibrant color while keeping the scones moist and tender.
- Buttermilk
Adds a gentle tanginess and tenderizing effect, working with the baking powder to deliver a light, airy texture.
- Vanilla extract
Brings a sweet, aromatic note that enhances the natural flavors of pumpkin and spice.
- Large egg
Binds the ingredients together, contributing to the tender crumb and giving the scones their rich golden hue.
- Milk (for topping)
Used to brush the tops, it helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture adhere and promotes a light, golden finish.
- Granulated sugar mixed with cinnamon (for topping)
Packs a sweet, crunchy punch on top of each scone, adding extra texture and flavor with every bite.
HOW TO MAKE PUMPKIN CINNAMON SCONES
Embarking on this baking adventure is easier than you might think. In just a few simple steps, you’ll transform basic ingredients into irresistible Pumpkin Cinnamon Scones. Follow along closely, and don’t be afraid to get your hands a little floury—baking is as much about the process as it is about the end result.
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until everything is evenly distributed and no lumps remain.
3. Add the cold butter pieces to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs studded with tiny flecks of butter.
4. In a separate bowl, stir together the pumpkin puree, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and egg until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
5. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture, gently stirring with a spatula or wooden spoon until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix—you want to see distinct bits of butter to achieve a flaky texture.
6. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently a couple of times, just until you have a cohesive dough. Overworking it can lead to tough scones.
7. Shape the dough into a round disc about 1 inch thick. Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the disc into 8 equal wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving room for expansion.
8. Brush the tops of each wedge with milk and generously sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over them for a sweet, crunchy topping.
9. Bake for 14–16 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Remove from the oven and let the scones cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR PUMPKIN CINNAMON SCONES
Once these Pumpkin Cinnamon Scones emerge from the oven with their warm, golden tops and irresistible aroma, you’ll want to serve them in a way that maximizes every delightful contrast of texture and flavor. Whether you’re hosting a leisurely weekend brunch or simply treating yourself to a cozy solo breakfast, these serving ideas will elevate your scones and make every bite feel special. From the silky richness of melted butter to the sweetness of a simple glaze, here are a few ways to enjoy these tender wedges at their absolute best:
- Warm with whipped butter
Serve the scones piping hot, paired with a dollop of room-temperature whipped butter. The contrast between the warm pastry and the creamy, melting butter creates a luscious mouthfeel that’s hard to resist.
- Alongside a spiced latte
Embrace the autumn vibes by pairing each scone with a homemade spiced latte or your favorite pumpkin coffee blend. The robust coffee flavors beautifully complement the gentle sweetness and spices in the scones.
- Drizzled with a simple glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar and a splash of milk until smooth, then drizzle over slightly cooled scones. The sweet glaze adds an extra layer of indulgence and a pretty finishing touch.
- With sliced fruit and cheese
For a more substantial spread, serve the scones alongside fresh fruit slices—like crisp apples or pears—and a few wedges of mild cheese. The bright fruit and rich cheese offer a delightful balance to the sweet, spiced pastry.
HOW TO STORE PUMPKIN CINNAMON SCONES
Whether you make a big batch for a gathering or simply want to enjoy these scones over several days, proper storage is key to maintaining their fresh-baked goodness. The tender crumb and buttery richness can lose their appeal if left exposed to air, but with a few simple steps, you can keep these scones tasting just-baked for longer. Below you’ll find tips for short-term and longer-term storage, ensuring that every wedge retains its moist texture and warm spice notes until you’re ready to savor it.
- Room-temperature storage
Once completely cooled, place the scones in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture. Seal tightly and store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration
If you’d like to keep them a bit longer, layer the cooled scones between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Bring them back to room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven before serving.
- Freezing for longer shelf life
Wrap each cooled scone individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat directly from frozen in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 10–12 minutes.
- Reheating tips
For the best texture, reheat room-temperature or thawed scones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes. This will refresh the outer crust and bring back that just-baked warmth.
CONCLUSION
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Scones are more than just a seasonal treat—they’re a celebration of cozy mornings, shared moments, and the simple joy of baking from scratch. We’ve walked through every detail, from selecting the best ingredients to mastering the steps that ensure a tender, flaky crumb and a sweet, cinnamon-sugar crust. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the world of starting dough with cold butter, this beginner-friendly recipe makes the whole process approachable and fun. Armed with just a handful of pantry staples, you can fill your home with that unmistakable warmth of fall spices in under half an hour. Feel free to print or bookmark this article and save it for the next time the craving for something comforting strikes. You’ll find a handy FAQ section below to address any follow-up questions you might have about substitutions, variations, or troubleshooting tips—so you’ll be fully supported from mixing bowl to cooling rack.
Thank you for joining me on this pumpkin-filled kitchen adventure! I hope you’ll give these scones a try and experience firsthand how effortlessly they bring a little slice of autumn magic to your breakfast or dessert table. If you decide to whip up a batch, please leave your comments, share your personal twists, or ask any questions that pop up while you’re baking. I love hearing your feedback and am always here to help if you need guidance—whether it’s adjusting the spice levels, swapping in homemade pumpkin puree, or perfecting that golden cinnamon-sugar topping. Happy baking, and may your home always be filled with delicious aromas and sweet memories!
Pumpkin Cinnamon Scones
Description
These scones are a perfect blend of pumpkin and warm spices, with a tender crumb and a sweet cinnamon-sugar topping that makes every bite irresistible.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
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Add the cold butter pieces to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
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In a separate bowl, stir together the pumpkin puree, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and egg until well combined.
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Gradually add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture, stirring until the dough just comes together. Don't overmix.
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Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently a few times to ensure everything is combined.
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Shape the dough into a round disc, about 1 inch thick. Cut the disc into 8 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each wedge.
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Brush the tops of the scones with milk and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
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Bake for 14-16 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Remove the scones from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Note
- These scones pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
- You can use homemade pumpkin puree for a fresher taste.
- Add some chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
- For a glossy finish, brush with an egg wash instead of milk.
- Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness.
