Spiced Pumpkin Scones

Spiced pumpkin scones are warm, tender, and full of cozy autumn flavor. With a perfectly crumbly texture and fragrant notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, these scones are the perfect treat to enjoy with a morning coffee or as an afternoon snack. They’re slightly sweet, lightly spiced, and irresistibly comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these pumpkin scones come together with just a few pantry staples and a bit of canned pumpkin. The spices make my kitchen smell amazing while they bake, and the result is a batch of soft, moist scones with crisp edges. They strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory, and I can dress them up with a glaze or enjoy them as-is. They’re also a great way to use up leftover pumpkin puree.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Brown sugar
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Ground cloves
• Ground ginger
• Unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• Pumpkin puree
• Heavy cream (or milk)
• Vanilla extract
• Optional: powdered sugar and milk for glaze

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and spices.
3. I cut the cold butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or my fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, I mix the pumpkin puree, cream, and vanilla until smooth.
5. I pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until combined—being careful not to overmix.
6. I turn the dough out onto a floured surface, shape it into a circle about 1 inch thick, and cut it into 8 wedges.
7. I transfer the scones to the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with a bit of cream for a golden finish.
8. I bake for 18–22 minutes, until the tops are lightly browned and a toothpick comes out clean.
9. Once cooled, I sometimes drizzle a simple glaze over the top made with powdered sugar and a little milk.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 8 scones.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add chocolate chips or chopped pecans to the dough for extra richness and texture. If I want a more indulgent finish, I top them with a spiced glaze made from powdered sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of maple syrup. I’ve also made mini versions by dividing the dough into two circles and cutting each into 6–8 smaller scones.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5. To reheat, I pop them in a 300°F oven for 5–8 minutes, or microwave them for 15–20 seconds. They also freeze well—I wrap them individually and thaw them as needed.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, I sometimes use homemade pumpkin puree. I just make sure it’s thick and not too watery, or the dough can get sticky.

Why are my scones dry or crumbly?

That usually happens if the dough is overmixed or if there’s not enough moisture. I try to mix just until the dough comes together and avoid adding too much flour during shaping.

Can I make these scones dairy-free?

Yes, I’ve made them with coconut cream and vegan butter, and they turned out delicious. Just keep an eye on the texture and adjust the moisture as needed.

How do I get a flaky scone texture?

Cold butter is key. I make sure the butter stays cold until it goes into the oven, and I handle the dough as little as possible to keep it light and tender.

Can I add a glaze or topping?

Absolutely. I like making a simple glaze with powdered sugar and milk, or a maple glaze for a seasonal touch. A sprinkle of coarse sugar before baking also adds a nice crunch.

Conclusion

Spiced pumpkin scones are a fall favorite I love making again and again. They’re easy, satisfying, and packed with warm, comforting flavors. Whether I’m sharing them with friends or enjoying one with a hot drink, they always bring a little seasonal magic to the moment.

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