Warm, flaky, and packed with flavor, Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Scones are a fall favorite! You’ll love how easy they are to make and how perfect they are for breakfast or a cozy snack. With a delightful mix of spices and creamy chocolate, these scones are sure to impress. Ready to bake? Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delicious treat you won’t forget!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
To make pumpkin chocolate chip scones, gather all the ingredients first. This helps keep things organized. You will need flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. These dry ingredients give the scones their rise.
Next, add salt and spices. The salt balances the sweet. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger bring warmth and flavor. Use fresh spices for the best taste.
Chill your butter before using it. Cold butter makes the scones flaky. Cube the butter into small pieces. This helps it mix evenly.
For the wet ingredients, you need pumpkin puree, heavy cream, and one egg. Pumpkin adds moisture and flavor. The cream gives richness, while the egg helps bind the dough.
Finally, don’t forget the chocolate chips. They add sweetness and a lovely texture. Make sure to use semi-sweet chocolate for the best balance.
Now you have everything ready to create these tasty treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet
– Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
– Sift together dry ingredients in a large bowl.
This helps mix the flour, sugar, and spices well.
Incorporating Butter
– Blend cold, cubed butter into dry mixture.
Use a fork or your fingers to mix until it looks like coarse crumbs.
This step is key for making your scones flaky.
Preparing Wet Mixture
– Whisk together pumpkin puree, heavy cream, and egg.
Make sure this mixture is smooth and well mixed.
Combining Mixtures
– Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients without overmixing.
Stir gently until everything is just combined.
– Fold in chocolate chips gently.
This ensures even distribution without making the dough tough.
Shaping and Baking Scones
– Form dough into a round disc about 1 inch thick.
– Cut dough into wedges, making about 8 equal pieces.
– Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet with space between each.
– Bake for 18-20 minutes.
Look for golden edges and a clean toothpick when done.
Enjoy the process and the lovely smells that fill your kitchen!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Flaky Texture
To get that perfect flaky texture, use cold butter. Cold butter keeps its shape in the dough. This helps create air pockets during baking. These pockets make the scones light and fluffy. Avoid overmixing the dough. Mix just until the ingredients come together. Overmixing can make the scones tough instead of flaky.
Enhancing Flavor
You can enhance the flavor with spices. Besides cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, consider adding allspice or cloves. For a warm touch, add a splash of vanilla extract. This adds depth to the pumpkin flavor. Each spice brings its own charm, making your scones special.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your warm scones with pumpkin butter. The sweet and spicy flavors pair well. You can also drizzle honey over them. This adds a nice touch of sweetness. For extra fun, try a light dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy these treats with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy experience.
Variations
Seasonal Alternatives
You can easily switch things up! Try using sweet potato or butternut squash instead of pumpkin. Both options add a different but tasty flavor. Sweet potato gives a nice sweetness. Butternut squash adds a creamy texture. These choices make the scones fun and unique.
Chocolate Variations
If you love chocolate, consider using white chocolate or dark chocolate chips. White chocolate adds a sweet, creamy twist. Dark chocolate brings a rich, bold taste. You can even mix chocolate types for extra fun. Each variation gives the scones its own special flair.
Healthier Substitutions
Want a healthier scone? Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This change adds fiber and nutrients. You can also cut back on the sugar if you prefer. Reducing the brown sugar by a little still keeps the scones tasty. These simple swaps make your treat a bit better for you!
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Scones
To keep your pumpkin chocolate chip scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This method helps maintain their flaky texture. If you live in a humid area, I suggest wrapping each scone in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. This extra layer prevents moisture loss.
If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate the scones. Place them in an airtight container to avoid any fridge odors. However, the cold can change their texture slightly, making them less flaky. So, only refrigerate if you plan to eat them within a few days.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing scones is a great way to enjoy them later. To freeze, place the baked and cooled scones on a baking sheet. Make sure they are not touching. Freeze them for about two hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
When you are ready to enjoy a scone, remove it from the freezer. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight, or at room temperature for a few hours. If you want a warm scone, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This step will refresh the scone’s texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make these scones ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these scones ahead. Prepare the dough, shape it, and freeze the scones before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. When you are ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This keeps them fresh and easy to bake later.
What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?
If you don’t have pumpkin puree, you can use sweet potato puree or butternut squash puree. Both options work well and give a similar taste and texture. Just ensure they are smooth, like pumpkin puree, for the best results.
How do I know when the scones are done baking?
The scones are done when they turn golden brown at the edges. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready. You can also gently press the tops; they should feel firm, not soft.
Are these scones suitable for freezing?
Yes, these scones freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can last up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven.
Can I add nuts or dried fruits to the recipe?
Absolutely! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch. Dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins also add a nice flavor. Just fold them in gently with the chocolate chips to keep the dough light.
These scones are easy to make and full of flavor. We covered the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. Remember to use cold butter for the best texture. Feel free to try different flavors and substitutes to fit your taste. These scones are great for sharing or enjoying at home. I hope you find joy in baking these delicious treats!
