This pumpkin scones recipe is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of autumn. With just the right amount of spices and a light vanilla glaze, these scones are not only quick and easy to prepare but also ideal for cozy gatherings or enjoying with your morning coffee. They are soft, flavorful, and versatile enough to be served at brunches, afternoon teas, or simply as a comforting snack.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Whip up these scones in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous baking sessions.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a cozy flavor profile that celebrates the best of fall.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them plain, with butter, or drizzled with glaze for an added touch of sweetness.
- Perfectly Moist Texture: The addition of buttermilk ensures that these scones remain moist and tender throughout.
- Great for Sharing: These scones make a wonderful addition to any gathering, bringing warmth and joy to your table.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect pumpkin scones, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. Hereβs what you will need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Pastry Cutter (or Forks)
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Wire Cooling Rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix all your ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
- Pastry Cutter: This tool helps you achieve the perfect crumbly texture by cutting cold butter into the dry ingredients effectively.
Ingredients
This pumpkin scones recipe is quick and easy to make, drizzled with a light vanilla glaze, and full of the best cozy pumpkin flavors.
Ingredients:
β 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
β 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
β 1 tablespoon baking powder
β 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
β 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
β 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
β 1/2 cup very cold salted butter, diced or grated
β 3/4 cup pumpkin purΓ©e
β 1/3 cup buttermilk (or milk), plus extra for brushing
β 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
β 1/2 cup powdered sugar
β 2 to 3 teaspoons buttermilk (or milk)
β 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
β optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon*, ginger or cardamom
How to Make Pumpkin Scones
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until evenly combined.
Step 2: Cut in Butter
Add the diced butter. Use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture is crumbly with pea-sized chunks.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Stir in the pumpkin purΓ©e, buttermilk (or milk), and vanilla extract. Use a spatula to gently combine until no dry streaks remainβbe careful not to over-mix!
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Turn the mixture onto a floured surface. Fold it over itself until it holds together. Pat it down into an 8-inch circle. Slice into 8 equal wedges using a large knife.
Step 5: Chill Before Baking
Transfer scone wedges onto a parchment-covered baking sheet, spacing them apart. Freeze for about 15 minutes while preheating your oven to 425Β°F.
Step 6: Bake
Brush each scone top lightly with buttermilk. Bake for 13-15 minutes until golden on top. Transfer to a wire rack to cool.
Step 7: Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together glaze ingredients until smooth. Adjust thickness by adding more powdered sugar if needed. Once cooled slightly, brush or drizzle glaze over the scones. Serve and enjoy!
How to Serve Pumpkin Scones
Pumpkin scones are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer them for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or as a dessert, these scones can be paired with a variety of accompaniments.
With Coffee or Tea
- Fresh Brewed Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the spice in pumpkin scones perfectly.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea can enhance the cozy feeling that pumpkin scones bring.
With Spreads
- Cream Cheese Spread: A light cream cheese spread adds a creamy texture that balances the sconeβs crumbly nature.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Drizzling honey or maple syrup over the scones adds natural sweetness and enhances their flavor.
As Part of a Breakfast Platter
- Fruit Salad: A side of fresh fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm spices in the scones.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fruits alongside pumpkin scones makes for a wholesome breakfast option.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Scones
Making perfect pumpkin scones involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to elevate your baking game:
- Use Cold Ingredients: Keep butter and buttermilk cold to ensure flakiness in your scones.
- Donβt Overmix: Gently combine ingredients until just mixed. Overmixing can lead to tough scones.
- Chill Before Baking: Refrigerating the dough for at least 15 minutes helps maintain shape while baking.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak spices according to your taste preferences; adding more cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance flavor.
- Check Doneness Carefully: Keep an eye on your scones while baking. They should be lightly golden but not browned.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Scones
Pumpkin scones pair well with several side dishes that complement their flavors. Hereβs a list of delicious options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries adds brightness.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and honey for added crunch and creaminess.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This offers a healthy, creamy side that contrasts nicely with the texture of scones.
- Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche provides protein and balances the sweetness of pumpkin scones.
- Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon add a crunchy element that pairs well with soft scones.
- Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of soup can create a comforting meal when served alongside warm pumpkin scones.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making pumpkin scones can be a joy, but many home bakers make simple mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the chilling step: Not freezing the scones before baking can lead to flat results. Always chill the scones for 15 minutes before placing them in the oven.
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough scones. Mix just until no dry streaks remain for the best texture.
- Using warm butter: If your butter isnβt cold enough, the scones wonβt rise well. Always use very cold butter, diced or grated for optimal results.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can make your scones dense. Use a kitchen scale or fluff the flour before scooping it into your measuring cup for accuracy.
- Neglecting oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can affect the texture and color of your scones. Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer for precision.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Pumpkin Scones
- Wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Pumpkin Scones
- Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F and bake for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat one scone at a time for about 15-20 seconds on high.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making pumpkin scones.
How can I make my Pumpkin Scones healthier?
You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or add oats for extra nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes! Just ensure that you cook and puree it until smooth, then measure out the same amount as canned pumpkin purΓ©e.
What is the best way to add flavor to my Pumpkin Scones?
Try adding nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture variations.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Scones after baking?
Yes! Baked pumpkin scones freeze well. Just ensure they are completely cooled and stored properly in an airtight container.
What should I serve with Pumpkin Scones?
They pair wonderfully with tea or coffee, and you can enjoy them plain or with a spread of cream cheese or butter.
Final Thoughts
These pumpkin scones are not only easy to make but also packed with cozy flavors perfect for autumn. With their light vanilla glaze, they make a delightful treat any time of day. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding spices or mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Enjoy these delicious scones fresh from the oven!

Pumpkin Scones
- Author: Madison
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 scones 1x
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of autumn with these delightful Pumpkin Scones, drizzled with a light vanilla glaze. This easy recipe captures the essence of fall and is perfect for cozy gatherings or a warm morning treat alongside your coffee or tea. With the rich taste of pumpkin puree combined with aromatic spices and a tender texture, these scones will quickly become a favorite. They are not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to be enjoyed plain or dressed up with your favorite spreads.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 cup very cold salted butter, diced or grated
- 3/4 cup pumpkin purΓ©e
- 1/3 cup buttermilk (or milk), plus extra for brushing
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 to 3 teaspoons buttermilk (or milk)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ginger or cardamom
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until combined.
- Add the diced butter and cut it into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter until crumbly with pea-sized chunks.
- Stir in pumpkin purΓ©e, buttermilk (or milk), and vanilla extract gently until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and shape into an 8-inch circle; cut into 8 wedges.
- Place scones on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 15 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425Β°F and brush scone tops lightly with buttermilk before baking for 13β15 minutes until golden.
- For the glaze: whisk together powdered sugar, buttermilk (or milk), and vanilla extract until smooth; drizzle over cooled scones.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Ensure butter and buttermilk are very cold for flaky scones. Customize by adding nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor.