Pumpkin Pecan Scones with Maple Glaze
As the crisp fall air sets in and the scent of autumn spices fills the kitchen, there’s nothing quite like the joy of baking seasonal treats. Pumpkin pecan scones with maple glaze are the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall in every bite. These scones combine the rich, earthy taste of pumpkin with the crunch of toasted pecans, all topped off with a silky maple glaze that adds the perfect touch of sweetness. Whether you’re serving them at a cozy brunch or enjoying them with a hot cup of coffee, these scones are a must-try.
This fall-inspired scone recipe with maple glaze is not only easy to make but also offers a delicious balance of warmth and sweetness that’s ideal for the season. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to bake up a batch of pumpkin pecan scones with maple glaze that will fill your home with the irresistible scents of fall.
Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Pecan Scones
These pumpkin pecan scones with maple glaze are a true celebration of fall flavors. The combination of pumpkin, pecans, and a sweet maple glaze creates a deliciously warm and comforting treat that’s perfect for any autumn morning or afternoon snack. The pumpkin adds not only a rich, earthy flavor but also moisture, resulting in moist pumpkin scones with pecans and maple frosting that melt in your mouth with every bite.
The toasted pecans bring a delightful crunch, perfectly balancing the soft texture of the scone, while the maple glaze topping gives it just the right amount of sweetness. Each scone is light, fluffy, and tender, with the glaze adding a subtle caramelized flavor that takes these delicious pumpkin scones with maple glaze topping to the next level. Whether you’re enjoying them alone or sharing with friends, these scones will quickly become a fall favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the pumpkin pecan scones with maple glaze, it’s important to use high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Scones:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The base for a soft and fluffy scone.
- ½ cup whole wheat flour – Adds a bit of texture and depth to the scones.
- ¼ cup brown sugar – For a light sweetness that complements the pumpkin.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – Helps the scones rise and stay fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice – A warm, fragrant spice blend that defines the fall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon – To enhance the pumpkin and add a cozy flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and flavors.
- ½ cup cold butter – Cut into small cubes; this is essential for creating the flaky texture of the scones.
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree – Make sure to use 100% pure pumpkin for the best flavor and texture.
- 1 large egg – Helps bind the dough together and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth to the flavor.
- 1-2 tablespoons cold milk or cream – To bring the dough together and make it moist.
For the Maple Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar – For sweetness and smooth texture.
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup – Use pure maple syrup for the best, most authentic flavor. Avoid imitation maple syrup for a richer taste.
- 1 tablespoon milk or cream – To thin out the glaze and make it pourable.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – To add depth to the glaze’s flavor.
Using pure maple syrup in the glaze ensures an authentic, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin and pecans. When making these scones, opt for the highest quality ingredients to ensure that each bite is as flavorful and satisfying as possible.
How to Make Pumpkin Pecan Scones with Maple Glaze
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create easy pumpkin scones with pecans and maple glaze that are perfectly tender, flavorful, and topped with a delightful maple drizzle.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup whole wheat flour
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
This blend creates the foundation for the scones’ warm and cozy flavor.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
- Add ½ cup cold butter (cubed) to the dry ingredients.
- Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Cold butter is key to achieving flaky scones.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, gently folding them together with a spatula. Add 1-2 tablespoons cold milk or cream as needed to bring the dough together. Avoid overmixing to keep the scones light and tender.
Step 5: Toast the Pecans (Optional but Recommended)
- For extra flavor, toast ½ cup chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool slightly before folding into the dough.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick.
- Cut into 8 wedges (like a pizza) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each wedge.
Step 7: Bake the Scones
- Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the scones to cool slightly on a wire rack before glazing.
Step 8: Prepare the Maple Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon milk or cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Adjust the consistency as needed by adding more milk (for a thinner glaze) or powdered sugar (for a thicker glaze).
Step 9: Glaze the Scones
- Drizzle the maple glaze over the warm scones using a spoon or piping bag. The glaze will set slightly as it cools, creating a shiny, sweet topping.
Tips for Success:
- Cold Ingredients: Use cold butter and milk to achieve a flaky texture.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until it comes together to prevent tough scones.
- Even Sizing: Cut scones evenly to ensure they bake uniformly.
- Toasting Pecans: Toasting pecans enhances their nutty flavor, making the scones even more delicious.
Now you know how to make pumpkin scones with maple glaze that are perfect for fall mornings or afternoon tea. Enjoy these homemade treats with friends and family!
Maple Glaze Topping: The Perfect Finish
The maple syrup glaze recipe is what takes these pumpkin pecan scones from delicious to irresistible. It’s sweet, silky, and perfectly complements the warm flavors of pumpkin and pecans. Here’s how to make it and apply it flawlessly.
How to Prepare the Maple Glaze
To make the glaze, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon milk or cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and pure maple syrup until smooth.
- Add milk or cream gradually, one teaspoon at a time, until the glaze reaches your desired consistency.
- For a thinner glaze, add a little more milk.
- For a thicker glaze, sift in a bit more powdered sugar.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor depth.
This simple yet indulgent glaze pairs beautifully with the toasted pecans, creating a luscious maple pecan glaze topping.
Tips for the Perfect Glaze Consistency
- Smooth and Pourable: The glaze should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but thin enough to drizzle easily.
- No Lumps: Sift the powdered sugar before mixing to avoid lumps in the glaze.
- Adjust as Needed: If the glaze becomes too thick while sitting, add a drop or two of milk and whisk again.
How to Apply the Maple Glaze
- Allow the baked scones to cool slightly but remain warm—this helps the glaze adhere beautifully.
- Use a spoon or a small piping bag to drizzle the glaze over the scones in a zigzag pattern. Alternatively, you can dip the tops of the scones directly into the glaze for a more uniform coating.
- Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving to create a glossy finish.
With this easy maple syrup glaze recipe, your pumpkin pecan scones will look stunning and taste even better. The sweet glaze highlights the warm, nutty flavors and adds a beautiful visual touch, making these scones a show-stopping addition to your fall baking lineup.
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Pecan Scones
Making the best pumpkin scones with maple frosting is all about technique and a few simple tricks. Follow these tips to ensure your scones turn out light, fluffy, and irresistibly delicious every time.
1. Keep Ingredients Cold
- Use cold butter and milk/cream to achieve flaky scones. The cold butter creates steam pockets as it melts during baking, resulting in a tender, light texture.
- Work quickly when mixing the dough to prevent the butter from softening too much.
2. Don’t Overmix the Dough
- Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until they come together. Overmixing develops the gluten, which can make the scones dense and tough.
- The dough should be slightly crumbly but hold together when pressed.
3. Chill the Dough
- After shaping the dough, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before baking. This helps the butter stay cold, prevents spreading, and gives the scones a better rise.
4. Cut Evenly for Uniform Baking
- Shape the dough into a circle and cut it into 8 wedges (like a pizza) to ensure the scones bake evenly.
- For extra precision, use a bench scraper or sharp knife.
5. Toast the Pecans
- Toasting the pecans before folding them into the dough enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or toast them in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
6. Experiment with Variations
Elevate your scones by adding extra flavors and textures:
- Chocolate Chips: For a sweet twist, fold in ½ cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips.
- Dried Fruit: Dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots pair beautifully with the pumpkin and pecans.
- Spices: Increase the pumpkin spice or add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Glaze Variations: Swap the maple glaze for a vanilla or cinnamon glaze if you want to mix things up.
7. Use Quality Ingredients
- Opt for pure maple syrup in the glaze for a rich, authentic flavor. Avoid artificial syrups, as they can taste overly sweet and lack depth.
- Choose 100% pure pumpkin puree for the best results—avoid pumpkin pie filling, which has added spices and sugar.
8. Test for Doneness
- Bake the scones until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Avoid overbaking to keep them moist.
By following these tips, you’ll master how to make perfect pumpkin pecan scones that are flavorful, tender, and ideal for any fall occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try fun variations like chocolate chips or dried fruit, these scones are guaranteed to be a hit!
How to Store and Serve Pumpkin Pecan Scones
These pumpkin pecan scones are as delightful fresh from the oven as they are the next day—if you store them properly. Here’s how to keep them fresh and enjoy them at their best.
How to Store Pumpkin Pecan Scones
- Room Temperature (Short-Term):
- Place the cooled scones in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature.
- If glazed, allow the maple glaze to set completely before storing to avoid sticking.
- Refrigeration (Medium-Term):
- Store scones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This is ideal if you’ve added ingredients like cream or a dairy-based glaze.
- Freezing (Long-Term):
- Freeze unglazed scones by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes. Add the maple glaze topping after reheating.
How to Serve Pumpkin Pecan Scones
- Classic Pairings:
- Serve these pumpkin pecan scones for fall baking with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or spiced cider for a cozy autumn treat.
- A dollop of whipped cream or butter on the side enhances the experience.
- Brunch or Dessert:
- Include them in a Thanksgiving brunch spread alongside other fall-inspired dishes like muffins, fruit salad, or quiche.
- Drizzle with extra maple syrup glaze for a dessert-like presentation.
- Festive Additions:
- Garnish with toasted pecans or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a polished look.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a warm-and-cold contrast at Thanksgiving dinner.
Tips for Serving Freshly Baked Scones
- Warm the scones slightly before serving by popping them in the oven or microwave for a few seconds. This refreshes their texture and enhances their aroma.
- Serve the perfect pumpkin pecan scones for Thanksgiving on a festive platter to highlight their golden color and shiny glaze.
With these storage and serving tips, your pumpkin pecan scones with maple glaze will remain a centerpiece of your fall baking repertoire, whether you’re enjoying them with family or treating yourself to a cozy autumn snack.
You may like to read this article https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/pumpkin
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