Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Scones

Ah, the magic of fall flavors! There’s nothing quite like the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg combined with pumpkin – it’s like a cozy hug in food form. These Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Scones capture that autumnal vibe beautifully, with their tender, flaky texture and a perfect sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top. They’re ideal for breakfast, a midday treat, or paired with your favorite coffee or tea!

If you’re here for comfort food with a bit of a twist, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into the details of this recipe, but first, be sure to subscribe for more recipes sent directly to your inbox – so you’ll never miss another delicious bake!

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Scones

Bursting with Fall Flavor

These scones feature pumpkin purée, cinnamon, and nutmeg – everything you love about the season in one bite. The balance of spices complements the pumpkin perfectly, creating a rich and aromatic treat.

Irresistibly Tender and Flaky

Thanks to cold butter and careful handling, these scones come out of the oven tender, soft, and flaky. They’re anything but dry, with just the right amount of crumble.

Easy to Make

Scones are often perceived as challenging, but this recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Once you try it, you’ll be making scones for every season!

this Recipe

Ingredients

For the Scones

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ cup cold butter, cubed – This is the secret to flaky layers.
• ¾ cup pumpkin purée – Not pumpkin pie filling, but pure pumpkin.
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter or two forks
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Spatula

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• For added texture: Mix in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts.
• Substitute for pumpkin: Sweet potato purée works well here if you’re out of pumpkin.
• Want a touch of extra spice? A pinch of ground ginger or cloves enhances the cozy warmth of these scones.
• Healthier options: Substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. You could also use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a subtle caramel flavor.

How to Make Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Scones

1. Preheat and Prepare
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add Butter
   Using a pastry cutter or two forks, cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The small butter chunks are key to a flaky texture.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, egg, and vanilla extract. This mixture keeps the scones moist and flavorful.
5. Combine and Shape the Dough
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense scones. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, and shape it into a circle about 1 inch thick.
6. Cut and Arrange
   Cut the dough into 8 wedges (like a pizza) and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Leave a bit of space between each wedge.
7. Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
   In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Generously sprinkle it over each scone for that snickerdoodle twist.
8. Bake
   Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on the edges and slightly firm to the touch.
9. Cool and Serve
   Allow the scones to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. They’re delicious warm but also keep well for a few days.

Serving Suggestions

• With coffee or tea: These scones pair perfectly with a hot drink. Try a spiced chai or pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate cozy combo!
• A drizzle of glaze: For extra sweetness, drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze on top once the scones are cool.
• With butter or jam: A touch of softened butter or your favorite jam can elevate these scones even further.

Tips for Perfect Scones

1. Keep Ingredients Cold: Cold butter and cold egg help create a flaky texture, so keep everything chilled until you’re ready to use it.
2. Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until it comes together; overmixing can make scones tough.
3. Pat, Don’t Roll: When shaping the dough, use your hands to pat it into a circle rather than rolling it out. This keeps the texture tender.

Storage Instructions

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: These scones freeze well! Place cooled scones in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin purée?

Absolutely! Just make sure to puree the pumpkin and drain excess liquid to achieve the same consistency as canned.

Why are my scones tough?

Tough scones are usually a result of overmixing or handling the dough too much. To avoid this, mix the dough gently and avoid pressing too firmly when shaping it.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the dough is cold.

Summary: Why These Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Scones Are a Must-Try

These Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Scones are the ultimate fall treat – bursting with pumpkin flavor, warmly spiced, and sprinkled with a sweet cinnamon sugar topping that brings a touch of snickerdoodle magic. They’re easy to make, full of cozy flavor, and perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). Whether you’re baking for a holiday breakfast or just a cozy weekend treat, these scones are sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Craving More Fall Bakes?

If you loved these scones, try these other cozy recipes from my site:

• Pumpkin Pie Crumble – A rich and easy dessert with a buttery crumble topping.
• Chewy Pumpkin Cookies – Soft, chewy, and filled with pumpkin goodness!
• Cinnamon Pumpkin Swirl Bread – Perfectly spiced with a swirl of cinnamon-sugar.

Did you make these Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Scones? Share your results in the comments below, or tag your photo on Pinterest!

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