Delicious Maple Pecan Pumpkin Scones Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of fall with the delectable crunch of nuts, look no further than these Tasty Maple Pecan Pumpkin Scones. These scones are not only irresistibly delicious but they also come together quickly, making them perfect for a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack. The star ingredients, pumpkin puree and maple syrup, meld beautifully to provide a moist, flavorful base, while the toasted pecans add a lovely crunch and nutty depth to each bite. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch gathering or just enjoying them alongside your morning coffee, you won’t be disappointed with these delightful scones.

Finding time to bake can be challenging, but this straightforward recipe ensures you can whip up a batch of scrumptious scones in just about half an hour. Not only are these scones vegetarian-friendly, but they are also made with healthier whole wheat flour, making them a fantastic choice for those mindful of their dietary preferences. Plus, the simple maple syrup glaze adds just the right touch of sweetness without overpowering the pumpkin’s natural flavors, making these scones the perfect balance of health and indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Tasty Maple Pecan Pumpkin Scones

• Flavorful Experience: The combination of pumpkin, maple syrup, and spices gives these scones a rich and warm flavor profile that’s perfect for any season.
• Quick and Easy: With a total prep time of just 32 minutes, you can have fresh bakery-style scones right in your kitchen.
• Nutty Goodness: Toasted pecans not only enhance the taste but also provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the softness of the scone.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with whole wheat flour, these scones are a more nutritious option that you can feel good about indulging in.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the delicious world of baking these scones, it’s crucial to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools for a smooth cooking experience. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C), so it’s ready when you are. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper, which will make transferring your unbaked scones a breeze and assist in easy cleanup.

You’ll need a few essential tools: a mixing bowl for combining your dry ingredients, a pastry cutter or fork for working in the butter or coconut oil, a whisk for mixing, and a chef’s knife or a bench scraper to slice the dough into scone shapes. Having your ingredients measured and ready to go will streamline the process and help avoid any last-minute scrambling while creating your delicious Tasty Maple Pecan Pumpkin Scones.

Ingredients

• 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
• For the 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

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Then, arrange the whole pecan halves on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. This step is all about enhancing the nuts’ natural flavors, so toast them in the oven for about 3 minutes, just until they start to become fragrant. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. Once toasted, remove them from the oven and chop them into fine pieces, reserving some for topping later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the white whole wheat flour, three-fourths of the finely chopped pecans, baking powder, packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, ground cloves or allspice, and fine salt. Whisk vigorously until everything is evenly dispersed; this will ensure your scones will have a consistent taste throughout. Remember, these spices are what will truly make your scones memorable!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the firm coconut oil or chilled butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or even your fingers, integrate the fat into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is important as it creates the desirable texture of your scones. Next, gently stir in the pumpkin puree, milk, and vanilla extract. It’s okay if the dough is slightly sticky; just knead gently if there’s loose flour that needs incorporating.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

Once your dough is mixed, form it into a circular shape, roughly one inch thick. Using a chef’s knife, slice the dough into eight equal pieces, resembling a pizza. Carefully separate the scone slices and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them for about 15 to 17 minutes, until they are lightly golden brown on top. Your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma while they bake!

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

While the scones are baking, whip up the superstar maple glaze by whisking together confectioners’ sugar, melted coconut oil or melted butter, vanilla extract, fine salt, and maple syrup in a small bowl. Keep mixing until it becomes smooth and creamy—this glaze will elevate your scones to the next level!

Step 6: Glaze the Scones

As soon as your scones are done baking, let them cool on a wire rack until they are just warm to touch. Now comes the fun part—drizzle the creamy glaze generously over each warm scone and sprinkle with the reserved pecans. These scones are best enjoyed fresh, as the warm glaze seeps into the scones, creating a delightful treat that’s hard to resist!

Variations

• Protein: Consider adding a scoop of protein powder to boost nutritional value like vanilla or chocolate flavored.
• Vegetables: For added nutrition, incorporate flaxseed or chia seeds, which can also add a pleasant crunch.
• Spices: About ¼ tsp of nutmeg or allspice can also be substituted for a different flavor profile. For those who love it spicy, adding a pinch of cayenne can elevate the flavor.

Cooking Notes

• Make sure your butter or coconut oil is chilled for the best scone texture.
• Don’t overwork your dough; mixing just until combined will ensure tender scones.
• For a sweeter glaze, gradually add more maple syrup to reach your desired taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these scones with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful breakfast or snack.
• Serve alongside seasonal fruit or a yogurt parfait for a wholesome meal.

Tips

• Use fresh pumpkin puree for a more robust pumpkin flavor.
• Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For freezing, wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 17 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 200 per scone
• Protein: 3 grams
• Sodium: 200 mg

FAQs

Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour, but keep in mind that whole wheat flour provides more fiber and nutrients.

How can I make these scones vegan?

To make these scones vegan, simply replace the milk with a non-dairy alternative and use coconut oil instead of butter.

Can I add other nuts or seeds to the scones?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in walnuts, almonds, or even seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for added texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover scones?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature; they will stay fresh for about 3 days. For longer storage, wrap individually and freeze.

Conclusion

These Tasty Maple Pecan Pumpkin Scones are not only a joy to bake but also a delicious way to embrace the comforting flavors of fall. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a batch of scones that will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy them fresh, share them at gatherings, or simply treat yourself to a delightful snack throughout the week. Don’t forget to let us know what you think or how you customized your scones in the comments below. Happy baking, and enjoy your scrumptious creations!