Pumpkin Oatmeal Scones Recipe

If you are craving a cozy, flavorful treat that perfectly balances hearty oats with the warm, inviting taste of pumpkin, this Pumpkin Oatmeal Scones Recipe is exactly what you need. These scones are wonderfully tender yet have just the right bit of texture from the oats, while the cinnamon sugar topping and optional pecans add an irresistible crunch. Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee or serving them as a delightful afternoon snack, these scones bring a comforting autumn vibe into every bite. They are surprisingly simple to make, and the pumpkin puree lends a natural moisture that keeps the scones soft and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Pumpkin Oatmeal Scones Recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the rolled oats providing heartiness to the warm spices that truly elevate the pumpkin, these essentials come together effortlessly.

• Old-fashioned rolled oats (2 cups): Gives the scones a rustic chew and wholesome texture that’s just right.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups): The structural backbone keeping your scones tender yet sturdy.
• Brown sugar (½ cup): Adds a caramel-like sweetness that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
• Baking powder (2½ teaspoons): Helps the scones rise perfectly fluffy without heaviness.
• Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Supports the light rise and reacts with the pumpkin’s acidity.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances all the sweet and spicy flavors.
• Ground nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): Adds a cozy, nutty warmth to the spice blend.
• Ground cinnamon (¼ teaspoon): The classic spice that gives your scones that unmistakable autumn aroma.
• Cold unsalted butter (½ cup, cubed): Finely cutting this in creates those flaky, tender layers inside.
• Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): Provides richness and helps bind the dough while keeping it moist.
• Pumpkin purée (¼ cup): Real pumpkin flavor and natural moisture in every bite—no artificial pumpkin pie filling here!
• Large egg (1): Adds structure and a bit of lift to the scones.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup, for cinnamon sugar): Mixed with cinnamon for a sweet, crunchy topping.
• Cinnamon sugar (½ cup, for sprinkling): The finishing touch that gives the scones a delightful sparkle and flavor on top.
• Chopped pecans (optional): Adds a nutty crunch that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin and spices.
• Pure maple syrup (1 tablespoon): For the glaze—adds a subtle sweetness and shine.
• Milk (2 tablespoons): Helps thin the glaze for easy drizzling.
• Maple extract (¼ teaspoon, optional): Enhances the maple notes in the glaze without overpowering.

How to Make Pumpkin Oatmeal Scones Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 425°F (218°C), making sure it’s fully preheated before baking. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper so the scones don’t stick and clean-up is a breeze. A well-preheated oven ensures that your scones rise beautifully and develop a lovely golden crust.

Step 2: Process the Oats

Next, pulse your old-fashioned rolled oats in a food processor just until they look like a coarse flour with a bit of texture still visible. This is key to achieving that perfect oatmeal scone texture—fluffy with just enough bite, rather than gritty or powdery.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Mix your dry ingredients together, then add the cold cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour and oat mixture until it resembles coarse sand with some pea-size bits of butter. Those butter chunks melt as the scones bake, creating flaky, tender layers you’ll swoon over.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and pumpkin purée. This blend brings luscious moisture and richness, as well as that real pumpkin flavor that makes this Pumpkin Oatmeal Scones Recipe so special.

Step 5: Combine Dough Carefully

Now, gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until a soft dough forms. It’s okay if you still see a few bits of dry flour here and there—overmixing can make the scones tough. Patience and gentle folding are key here for tender, fluffy results.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it into a round disc about 12 inches wide and 1 inch thick. Don’t overwork it or flatten it too much because you want the scones to keep a light, airy texture inside.

Step 7: Cut and Arrange Scones

Slice the disc into 8 equal triangular wedges. Place them close together on your lined baking sheet—this arrangement helps the scones bake evenly and stay moist in the center.

Step 8: Add Toppings

Sprinkle cinnamon sugar generously across the tops of the scones, then add chopped pecans if you like. Press these toppings in lightly so they stick during baking and deliver that perfect sweet crunch in every bite.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden

Bake your scones for 20 to 25 minutes or until they look golden and feel firm but springy to the touch. This step fills your kitchen with the most incredible aroma of pumpkin and spices and guarantees a delightful texture.

Step 10: Glaze and Cool

Once out of the oven, let the scones cool for about 5 minutes. While they rest, whisk together the maple syrup, milk, and optional maple extract to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle it over the warm scones, letting it set to a glistening finish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

How to Serve Pumpkin Oatmeal Scones Recipe

Garnishes

These scones shine on their own but garnishing with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or some additional chopped pecans right before serving adds a little crunch and sparkle. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also lend a festive look if you’re serving for a special occasion.

Side Dishes

Serve these Pumpkin Oatmeal Scones Recipe delights alongside a cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or spiced apple cider for a breakfast or brunch spread that will warm anyone’s heart. Fresh fruit, like sliced apples or pears, pairs wonderfully with the sweet, spiced scones without overpowering their flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or cozy gathering, arrange the scones on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of whipped cream, honey, or jam nearby. You can also slice them in half and offer homemade pumpkin butter or cream cheese spreads to create mini scone sandwiches bursting with seasonal flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover scones (though that rarely happens!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and tender for up to two days. To keep them from drying out, placing a slice of bread in the container can help maintain moisture.

Freezing

These scones freeze beautifully! Once completely cooled, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. This is perfect for making the Pumpkin Oatmeal Scones Recipe in advance and enjoying them anytime.

Reheating

To reheat frozen or stored scones, unwrap and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes until heated through and the edges regain their slight crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make them a bit chewy instead of delightfully flaky.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin purée?

It’s best to use 100% pure pumpkin purée rather than pumpkin pie filling. The filling contains added spices and sugars that can throw off the flavor balance and texture of your scones.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with milk?

You can use whole milk instead of heavy cream, but your scones won’t be quite as rich and tender. Heavy cream contributes to the moist, soft crumb that makes this Pumpkin Oatmeal Scones Recipe extra special.

What if I don’t have a food processor to pulse the oats?

No worries! You can pulse the oats in a blender or chop them finely with a knife if needed. The key is to break them down somewhat without turning them into powder to maintain that wonderful oatmeal texture.

Can I make these scones vegan?

With some ingredient swaps like using a plant-based butter, non-dairy cream, and an egg substitute, you can adapt the recipe. Just note the texture and flavor may differ slightly from the traditional version.

How do I keep the scones from becoming dry?

Be careful not to overmix the dough and avoid flattening it too much. Also, using pumpkin purée adds natural moisture, keeping the scones tender. Storing them properly in an airtight container also helps maintain softness.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have this fantastic Pumpkin Oatmeal Scones Recipe in your baking arsenal, you’re all set to bring cozy, delicious vibes to any morning or afternoon snack. These scones strike the perfect balance between wholesome oats, warm pumpkin, and just the right touch of sweetness, making them a real crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a beloved classic in your kitchen, especially when you want a little autumn comfort any time of the year.

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