Why These Pumpkin Hazelnut Scones Will Be Your Fall Favorite

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Hazelnut Scones

• Perfect for Fall: These scones feature pumpkin puree, a key ingredient that defines autumn treats, along with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, plus the added texture of hazelnuts.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can add your favorite fall spices or even dried cranberries for an extra burst of flavor.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time, this easy scone recipe is perfect for busy mornings or when you’re hosting a brunch gathering.
• Freezer-Friendly: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it, ensuring you have fresh scones whenever you want them.

Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Hazelnut Scones

To make these scones, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for extra spice)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Scones for Fall

1. Preheat Your Oven
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your scones don’t stick.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
   In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and any additional spices you’re using (ginger or nutmeg). Whisk everything together to distribute the ingredients evenly.
3. Cut in the Butter
   Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This is a key step to achieving that flaky scone texture.
4. Add the Wet Ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, milk, and egg. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough to keep your scones tender and light.
5. Incorporate the Hazelnuts
   Gently fold in the chopped hazelnuts. These nuts provide a satisfying crunch and a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin. If you’re a fan of other nuts, like walnuts, feel free to swap them out for a different flavor profile.
6. Shape the Dough
   Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently for about 1 minute until it comes together. Roll the dough out to about 1-inch thickness and use a round biscuit cutter or a glass to cut the dough into circles.
7. Prepare for Baking
   Place the scones on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the tops of the scones.
8. Bake the Scones
   Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 17-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and firm to the touch. Remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Hazelnut Scones

• Chill Your Butter: Cold butter is crucial for achieving that light and flaky scone texture. Make sure it’s firm and cold before cutting it into the flour.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overworking the dough will lead to dense scones, so mix just until combined.
• Freezing the Dough: If you want to make these scones ahead of time, you can freeze the dough. After cutting the scones, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Storing and Reheating Scones

• Room Temperature: Once baked, let the scones cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for about 2-3 days.
• Freezing for Later: To store scones long-term, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their fresh-baked texture.

How to Customize Your Scones

This pumpkin hazelnut scone recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can easily modify it to suit your tastes. Some great variations include:

• Add Dried Fruit: For a touch of sweetness and tartness, incorporate dried cranberries or raisins into the dough.
• Use Different Nuts: Hazelnuts bring a unique flavor, but walnuts, pecans, or even almonds would work well too.
• Spice It Up: If you enjoy bold flavors, feel free to adjust the spices. A little extra ginger or nutmeg can bring an additional layer of warmth.

Why Pumpkin Hazelnut Scones Are Perfect for the Holidays

Fall and winter holidays are a great time for baking, and these pumpkin hazelnut scones make a festive addition to any holiday spread. Their rich flavor makes them a wonderful alternative to traditional holiday pastries, and they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Scones also make excellent gifts! Wrapped in parchment paper and tied with a festive ribbon, these scones are an easy and thoughtful holiday treat.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for a comforting breakfast, a cozy afternoon treat, or a sweet addition to your holiday gatherings, pumpkin hazelnut scones are the perfect choice. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to become a fall favorite in your household. With the combination of pumpkin puree, warming spices, and crunchy hazelnuts, this scone recipe will keep you coming back for more.

Happy baking, and enjoy the flavors of fall with these delightful scones!