Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones Recipe

If you adore the cozy flavors of fall and crave a sweet, tender treat, let me introduce you to the Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones Recipe. This delightful bake blends the perfect balance of warm pumpkin pie spices with rich pumpkin puree and a buttery, flaky texture that melts in your mouth. It’s a charming twist on traditional scones, making it ideal for brisk mornings or afternoon tea. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just eager to try something new, these pumpkin scones will bring joy and a hint of autumn magic to your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to mastering this delicious Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones Recipe. Each component plays a key role, from the tender crumb created by cold butter to the warm aroma of the pumpkin pie spices that define fall flavors.

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of our scones, providing structure and softness.
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the scones rise beautifully for that perfect fluffy texture.
• 1 tsp salt: Balances flavors and enhances overall taste.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to tenderize the dough.
• 3 1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spices: A cozy mix of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves that bring signature autumn warmth.
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and a hint of molasses richness.
• 1 stick cold unsalted butter: The secret to flaky, buttery layers—keep it cold for best results.
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree: Brings natural sweetness, moisture, and that gorgeous orange hue.
• 1/4 cup buttermilk: Adds tanginess and helps tenderize the scones.
• 2 large eggs: One for the dough and one to create a shiny egg wash.
• Glaze ingredients—1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tbsp pumpkin puree, 1 tbsp milk, 1/4 tsp cinnamon: A sweet, spiced drizzle that elevates the scones to irresistible levels.

How to Make Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones Recipe

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, baking powder, salt, baking soda, pumpkin pie spices, and brown sugar in a large bowl. This combination ensures every bite bursts with flavor and lifts the scones just right.

Step 2: Cut in the Butter

Now, take your cold, cubed butter and cut it into the dry mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs. This technique is crucial to create flaky, tender layers in your scones—don’t rush this step!

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, buttermilk, and one egg until smooth. This mixture will bring moisture and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor to the scones.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently stir until a shaggy dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; you want just enough to bring everything together for a tender crumb.

Step 5: Fold and Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Fold it like a letter twice to create flaky layers, then divide it in half. Pat each half into a 6-inch round—this shape helps the scones bake evenly and become beautifully golden.

Step 6: Cut and Chill

Slice each round into 8 wedges and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Before baking, pop the tray into the freezer to chill the scones while you preheat your oven to 400°F. This chilling step helps them bake up flaky and maintain their shape.

Step 7: Egg Wash and Bake

Brush the cold scones with an egg wash made from one egg whisked with a teaspoon of water. This gives them that irresistible glossy, golden finish. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the scones are puffed and golden brown.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve

Whisk together powdered sugar, pumpkin puree, milk, and cinnamon to create a sweet glaze. Drizzle this over the warm scones to add a final touch of decadence and spiced sweetness that will have everyone coming back for more.

How to Serve Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones Recipe

Garnishes

Consider sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon or chopped toasted pecans on top of the glaze for added texture and warmth. Freshly grated nutmeg or a light dusting of powdered sugar can also add an elegant touch perfect for cozy gatherings.

Side Dishes

Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones Recipe pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or your favorite chai tea, complementing the spices perfectly. A dollop of clotted cream or cream cheese spread is divine, adding richness that balances the sweet glaze superbly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive brunch, arrange scones on a rustic wooden board surrounded by small bowls of honey, whipped butter, and cinnamon sugar. Alternatively, stack them with layers of whipped cream and fresh cranberries between for an indulgent autumn scone parfait that dazzles your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them moist and tender without sacrificing the delightful crumb texture.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked scones by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freezing until solid. Then transfer to a sealed container for up to two months, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked goodness whenever you want with minimal effort.

Reheating

Reheat scones in a warm oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through to revive that fresh-baked flavor and flaky exterior. Avoid microwaving, which can make them chewy and dense—oven warming maintains their tender heart and crisp edges.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is the easiest way to get that authentic pumpkin flavor without any extra prep.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, a simple substitute is to mix 1/4 cup milk with 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes before using. It creates that needed tang and tenderizing effect.

Can I make these scones dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine and use a plant-based milk with a splash of vinegar instead of buttermilk. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

How long do the scones keep fresh?

Freshly baked scones are best enjoyed within two days when stored properly at room temperature. Beyond that, their texture may start to dry out.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Definitely! While the classic Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones Recipe is wonderful on its own, adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries can create exciting flavor twists and add delightful texture.

Final Thoughts

Sharing the Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones Recipe is like passing along a warm hug in food form. Every bite is a gentle reminder of cozy kitchens, crisp autumn days, and sweet moments shared with loved ones. I encourage you to give these scones a try—they’re not just a recipe, they’re a celebration of pumpkin-spiced joy that’s simply too good to resist.

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