Apple Scones with Maple Glaze are the perfect treat to brighten up any day! These delightful scones combine the sweet and tart flavor of Granny Smith apples with a rich, buttery texture, finished off with a decadent maple glaze. Not only are these scones incredibly delicious, but they also offer a wonderful balance between sweet and savory, making them ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even an afternoon treat with your favorite cup of tea. The combination of warm spices, including cinnamon and nutmeg, gives each bite a cozy, comforting feel.

This recipe is simple enough for even novice bakers, yet it yields impressive results that will have everyone raving about your baking skills. The scones are best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven, with the maple glaze still melting atop. Whether you’re preparing them for a family gathering, a cozy weekend breakfast, or just a treat for yourself, these scones are bound to become a beloved favorite. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe and discover how to achieve bakery-quality Apple Scones at home!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Scones with Maple Glaze

Flavorful and Fragrant: The combination of apples and warm spices creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is suitable for bakers of all levels.
Perfectly Moist: The addition of applesauce ensures your scones are moist and tender.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different types of apples or add-ins like raisins or nuts.
Deliciously Sweet Glaze: The maple glaze adds a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements the scones.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before embarking on your scone-making adventure, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and gather all necessary tools for success. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Ensure you have essential baking items at hand, such as measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowls, and a rolling pin. A pastry cutter is vital for cutting the butter into the flour mixture, achieving that essential flaky texture.

Additionally, be sure to have a sturdy spatula and a glass measuring cup, as these utensils are crucial for mixing and pouring your wet ingredients. Keeping your workspace organized and having all ingredients pre-measured will expedite the process and minimize mess. This methodical approach not only makes baking more enjoyable but increases the likelihood of a successful outcome.

Ingredients

3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
1 Tablespoon (14g) baking powder
2/3 cup (133g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground all-spice
10 Tablespoons (141g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1/2 cup (130g) unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup (57ml) heavy cream
1 large egg, cold
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 and 1/2 cups (200g) Granny Smith apples, peeled or unpeeled
1 large egg (for egg wash)
1 teaspoon water (for egg wash)
3 Tablespoons sparkling sugar (for egg wash)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for egg wash)
1/2 cup (57g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted (for maple glaze)
1 and 1/2 Tablespoons (21ml) pure maple syrup (for maple glaze)
2 teaspoons milk (for maple glaze)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for maple glaze)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is crucial, as starting with a hot oven helps to ensure that your scones bake evenly and achieve that desired golden brown finish. While the oven heats up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, which will provide a non-stick surface for your scones.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and all-spice. Whisk these magnificent flavors together until they’re well blended. This mixture is the foundation for your scones, and the right balance of these ingredients contributes to the perfect texture and flavor.

Step 3: Incorporate the Butter

Next, take the cold butter pre-cut into small cubes and add it to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter, cut the butter into the flour mixture. Your goal is to achieve a consistency resembling coarse meal, with small pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. This process ensures that the butter will melt while baking, creating flaky layers within the scones.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a glass measuring cup, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce, heavy cream, cold egg, and pure vanilla extract until well combined. This mixture adds moisture and rich flavor to the scone dough.

Step 5: Form the Dough

Pour the wet ingredients into the center of the dry ingredients and gently fold in the chopped Granny Smith apples. Using a spatula, stir just until the mixture is moistened. It’s essential not to over-mix; the dough should be slightly crumbly yet hold together. Transfer this loose dough to a lightly floured work surface. Knead gently until it comes together, then shape it into an 8-inch disc.

Step 6: Cut and Chill

Cut the disc into 8 equal wedges, and carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. To help maintain their shape while baking, refrigerate the scones for 20 minutes. This step is particularly important, as it keeps the butter cold, contributing to the flakiness.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Once the scones have chilled, remove them from the refrigerator. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water for the egg wash. Brush a thin layer of this mixture over each scone, followed by a sprinkle of sparkling sugar and additional cinnamon. This will provide a lovely golden exterior and enhance the scones’ flavor.

Step 8: Bake and Glaze

Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven and bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and puffed up. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. Finally, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla extract to create the glaze. Drizzle it generously over the warm scones, serving them fresh and warm for the best results!

Variations

Protein: Add crispy bacon bits or maple sausage crumbles for a savory twist.
Vegetables: Try incorporating finely chopped spinach or shredded carrots for added nutrition.
Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding ginger, cloves, or nutmeg for a more complex spice profile.

Cooking Notes

Ensure all dairy ingredients are cold; this helps in creating a flaky scone.
Don’t overwork the dough; minimal handling helps to keep the scones tender.
For a vegan option, replace the eggs with flaxseed meal and use non-dairy milk and butter alternatives.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these scones with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of clotted cream for extra richness.
Serve with a cup of piping hot coffee or spiced chai tea for a comforting treat.

Tips

Store leftover scones in an airtight container for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.
Feel free to prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze; simply bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-22 minutes
Total Time: 42 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 200 per scone
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 200mg

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes! While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter flavor.

How can I store leftover scones?

Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about three days, or you can freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dough up to the cutting stage and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can freeze it and bake it whenever you’re ready.

Do I have to use the maple glaze?

The glaze adds a lovely finish, but you can enjoy the scones plain or with butter if you prefer.

Conclusion

These Apple Scones with Maple Glaze are not just a treat; they are an experience! With their tender, flaky texture and the sweet glaze drizzled on top, every bite offers a delightful taste sensation. Perfect for gatherings, tea parties, or simply indulging at home, this recipe promises to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the mouthwatering results. Don’t forget to share your creations or your own variations in the comments below. Happy baking!