If you’re craving a cozy treat that perfectly captures the spirit of autumn, look no further than this Tasty Maple Pecan Pumpkin Scones Recipe. These scones are tender and bursting with warm spices, nutty pecans, and the rich sweetness of maple syrup, delivering a delightful blend of flavors in every bite. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special afternoon snack, these pumpkin scones offer the kind of comfort and joy that will quickly make them your new seasonal favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Tasty Maple Pecan Pumpkin Scones Recipe starts with simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each one plays a vital role: from the wholesome whole wheat flour providing a hearty base to the aromatic spices and velvety pumpkin puree lending warmth and moisture.
- Whole pecan halves: Toasting brings out their nutty aroma and crunch that perfectly complements the soft scones.
- White whole wheat flour: Offers a tender crumb with a slightly nutty flavor, keeping these scones pleasantly wholesome.
- Baking powder: The essential leavening agent to give the scones their perfect rise and fluffy texture.
- Brown sugar: Adds natural sweetness and depth with a hint of molasses.
- Ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves (or allspice): A fragrant spice blend that infuses each bite with cozy fall vibes.
- Fine salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Firm coconut oil or chilled butter: The fat that makes the scones tender and flaky.
- Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that keeps the scones moist and wonderfully flavorful.
- Milk (any kind): Adds just enough liquid to bring the dough together with tenderness.
- Vanilla extract: A subtle touch that rounds out the taste perfectly.
- Confectioners’ sugar: The base of the luscious glaze topping each scone.
- Melted coconut oil or melted butter: Adds silkiness to the glaze while boosting flavor.
- Maple syrup: The sweet drizzle that makes these scones stand out with a rich, authentic maple finish.
How to Make Tasty Maple Pecan Pumpkin Scones Recipe
Step 1: Toast the pecans
Start by preheating your oven and toasting the whole pecan halves for just a few minutes until they become fragrant. This unlocks their nutty aroma and flavor, which gives the scones that irresistible crunch and depth. After toasting, chop them finely, saving a little for topping later on.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, most of the chopped pecans, baking powder, brown sugar, spices, and salt. This combination of dry ingredients sets the stage for the scones’ flavorful base, blending the warm autumn spices evenly throughout the dough.
Step 3: Cut in the fat
Add your firm coconut oil or chilled butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter, work the fat into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is key to creating tender, flaky layers.
Step 4: Combine wet ingredients and form dough
Stir in the pumpkin puree, milk, and vanilla extract until just combined. Don’t overwork the dough; knead gently to bring everything together, ensuring your scones remain soft rather than tough.
Step 5: Shape and slice the dough
Form your dough into a circle about one inch thick, then carefully cut it into 8 even wedges. This classic scone shape ensures even baking and makes them perfect for sharing.
Step 6: Bake to golden perfection
Arrange your scone wedges on the parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at a high temperature until they are lightly golden brown. This relatively short, hot bake time helps the scones puff up beautifully while keeping them moist inside.
Step 7: Prepare the maple glaze
While the scones bake, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, melted coconut oil or butter, vanilla extract, salt, and maple syrup until smooth and creamy. This luscious glaze will add a sweet, shiny finish that’s simply mouthwatering.
Step 8: Glaze and garnish
Once the scones have cooled to warm, generously drizzle the glaze over each one. Sprinkle the reserved chopped pecans on top for a delightful final touch of texture and flavor that perfectly complements the maple glaze.
How to Serve Tasty Maple Pecan Pumpkin Scones Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling toasted pecans over the glaze not only adds crunch but also enhances the nutty flavor. For an extra festive touch, a light dusting of cinnamon or a few delicate pumpkin seeds can make these scones look as good as they taste.
Side Dishes
Pair these scones with a cup of warmly spiced chai, a creamy latte, or freshly brewed coffee for a comforting fall treat. They also taste wonderful alongside a smear of cream cheese or your favorite nut butter for added richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy brunch, arrange the scones on a wooden board with small bowls of extra maple syrup and whipped cream nearby. You might also try serving them warm alongside a fresh fruit salad or roasted apples to elevate the autumn experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them soft and fresh. If you need to keep them longer, the fridge works but may dry them out slightly.
Freezing
These scones freeze beautifully. Wrap each individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. This way, you can enjoy your Tasty Maple Pecan Pumpkin Scones Recipe anytime the craving strikes.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the scones in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp on the edges. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve their delicate texture and lovely crust.
FAQs
Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat?
Absolutely! Using all-purpose flour will yield a slightly lighter texture, but your scones will still be deliciously tender and flavorful.
What’s the best way to store the scones to keep them moist?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature and add a slice of bread inside the container to help maintain moisture for a day or two.
Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Yes! Walnuts or almonds make great alternatives, providing a similar crunch and nuttiness that pairs nicely with pumpkin and maple flavors.
Is it possible to make these scones dairy-free?
Definitely. Using coconut oil and your favorite non-dairy milk will keep the scones moist and delicious without dairy.
How can I make the glaze thicker or thinner?
Adjust the glaze consistency by adding more powdered sugar to thicken or a splash of maple syrup or milk to thin it out until you reach your desired texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about homemade scones with the perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and a tender crumb. I can’t recommend this Tasty Maple Pecan Pumpkin Scones Recipe enough for anyone wanting to bring a little warmth and joy to their kitchen. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a beloved staple you reach for every autumn and beyond.
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Tasty Maple Pecan Pumpkin Scones Recipe
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Tasty Maple Pecan Pumpkin Scones are a delightful fall treat combining warm spices, nutty pecans, and rich pumpkin puree. Perfectly tender and lightly golden, these scones feature a sweet maple glaze topped with toasted pecans for an irresistible finish. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack, they’re easy to make and bursting with seasonal flavors.
Ingredients
Scones:
- 1 cup whole pecan halves
- 2 cups white whole wheat or regular whole wheat flour (250 grams)
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves or allspice
- 1/2 tsp fine salt
- 1/3 cup firm coconut oil or 5 tbsp chilled butter
- 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup milk (any kind: dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Glaze:
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1/8 tsp fine salt
- 1 tbsp melted coconut oil or melted butter
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (more if necessary)
Instructions
- Toast the Pecans: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the whole pecan halves in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Toast them for about 3 minutes until fragrant. Remove from the oven and finely chop the pecans, reserving the parchment paper and setting aside a quarter of the pecans for topping.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, three-fourths of the chopped pecans, baking powder, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves or allspice, and salt until evenly combined.
- Cut in the Fat: Add the firm coconut oil or chilled butter to the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter to cut the fat into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the pumpkin puree, milk, and vanilla extract. Gently knead the dough if needed to fully combine and incorporate any loose flour.
- Shape and Cut the Dough: Form the dough into a circle about one inch thick. Using a chef’s knife, cut the dough into 8 even wedges.
- Arrange and Bake: Carefully separate the scone wedges and place them on the reserved parchment paper on the baking sheet. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 to 17 minutes until lightly golden brown on top.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the scones bake, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, melted coconut oil or butter, vanilla extract, salt, and maple syrup in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Glaze and Serve: Let the scones cool on a rack until just warm. Generously drizzle the maple glaze over each scone and sprinkle with the reserved chopped pecans. Serve fresh and enjoy!
Notes
- Use firm coconut oil chilled to ensure proper texture when cutting into the dough.
- Whole wheat flour gives a nuttier flavor, but all-purpose flour can be substituted.
- Pumpkin puree can be homemade or canned, just make sure it’s plain pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
- For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil and non-dairy milk in the recipe and glaze.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
