As the first hints of autumn begin to whisper through the air, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of fall flavors to welcome the season. Maple and pecan, two iconic tastes that define this time of year, come together in a symphony of warmth and richness that’s simply irresistible.
The vibrant colors of leaves transforming from green to fiery reds and golden yellows, the crisp breeze carrying the scent of earth and wood, and the cozy aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the kitchen—these scones are more than just a treat—they’re a celebration of everything we love about fall.
Check out these other favorite fall recipes:
- How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
- Pumpkin Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe
- Quick and Easy Cozy Fall Comfort Dinners for Busy Nights
Maple Pecan Scones Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Maple Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
How to Make Maple Pecan Scones
Follow these easy steps to make delicious Maple Pecan Scones:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Make sure the dry ingredients are well combined.
3. Cut in the Butter:
- Add 1/2 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should be well-distributed but still have some pea-sized pieces.
4. Add the Pecans:
- Stir in 1/2 cup of toasted, chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
5. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky but hold together well.
7. Shape the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times to bring it together, then shape it into a round disc, about 1 inch thick and 7 inches in diameter.
8. Cut into Scones:
- Using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, cut the dough into 8 equal wedges. Place the wedges onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
9. Bake the Scones:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the scones from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
10. Prepare the Maple Glaze (Optional):
- While the scones are cooling, make the glaze by whisking together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, and 1-2 tablespoons of milk or heavy cream in a small bowl. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
11. Glaze the Scones (Optional):
- Drizzle the maple glaze over the warm scones using a spoon or a piping bag. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
Why You’ll Love These Scones
There’s something undeniably special about these Maple Pecan Scones that makes them a must-bake for fall. Here’s why they’re bound to become a staple in your kitchen:
1. A Perfect Blend of Flavors: The combination of rich, sweet maple syrup and the subtle nuttiness of pecans creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and indulgent. Each bite offers a harmonious balance between sweetness and earthiness, making these scones an absolute delight.
2. Warm and Cozy Fall Vibes: These scones capture the very essence of autumn. Whether you’re serving them on a chilly morning or as an afternoon treat, they bring the warmth and coziness of the season straight to your table. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate fall experience.
3. Easy to Make, Yet Impressive: Despite their decadent taste, these scones are surprisingly simple to make. With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a batch of bakery-worthy scones in no time. They’re perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike.
4. Versatile Enjoyment: Whether you enjoy them plain, drizzled with a maple glaze, or topped with a pat of butter, these scones are versatile enough to suit any preference. They’re also great for sharing—bring them to a fall gathering, and watch them disappear in no time.
5. Freezer-Friendly for Busy Mornings: These scones freeze beautifully, making them a convenient option for those hectic fall mornings. Simply bake a batch, freeze the extras, and reheat whenever you’re craving a quick and delicious breakfast.
Variations and Add-Ons
These Maple Pecan Scones are already a fall favorite, but with a few creative twists, you can customize them to suit your taste or the occasion. Here are some delicious variations and serving suggestions to inspire you:
Flavor Variations:
1. Maple Glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness, top your scones with a simple maple glaze. It’s easy to make with powdered sugar, pure maple syrup, and a splash of milk or cream. The glaze adds a beautiful finish and intensifies the maple flavor, making these scones truly indulgent.
2. Chocolate Chip Maple Pecan Scones: Add a handful of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the dough before baking. The rich chocolate complements the sweetness of the maple syrup and the nuttiness of the pecans, creating a scone that’s both decadent and comforting.
3. Walnut or Almond Scones: If you want to switch up the nuts, try substituting walnuts or almonds for the pecans. Walnuts add a slightly bitter, earthy note, while almonds provide a delicate crunch and a mild, sweet flavor. Either choice will bring a new dimension to these scones.
4. Cinnamon Maple Pecan Scones: Enhance the fall flavors by adding 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dry ingredients. The warm spice pairs beautifully with maple and pecan, giving the scones an even cozier, more aromatic flavor.
5. Maple Bacon Scones: For a sweet and savory twist, mix in crumbled cooked bacon into the dough. The salty, smoky bacon adds a surprising contrast to the sweet maple syrup and pecans, making these scones a unique treat.
Serving Suggestions:
1. With Spiced Tea or Coffee: Serve these scones with a cup of spiced tea or coffee for the ultimate fall experience. The warmth of the tea or coffee enhances the cozy flavors of the scones, making it a perfect pairing for a chilly morning or afternoon.
2. Extra Maple Syrup Drizzle: For those who can’t get enough of the maple flavor, drizzle a little extra pure maple syrup over the scones just before serving. It adds a touch of sweetness and makes the scones even more indulgent.
3. Whipped Butter or Cream: Serve the scones with a dollop of whipped butter or clotted cream on the side. The rich, creamy texture complements the flaky scones, adding a luxurious touch to each bite.
4. Fresh Fruit: Pair the scones with a side of fresh fruit, like sliced apples or pears, for a light and refreshing contrast. The juicy fruit balances the richness of the scones, making it a well-rounded snack or breakfast.
5. Fall Brunch Spread: Include these scones as part of a fall brunch spread, alongside other seasonal favorites like pumpkin muffins, apple cinnamon pancakes, or a warm butternut squash soup. They add a delightful variety to the table and are sure to impress your guests.
Conclusion
Baking is more than just a culinary activity; it’s a way to create memories, share love, and celebrate the flavors of the season. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of baking these delicious treats.
Freshly baked Maple Pecan Scones, with their perfect blend of sweet maple syrup and crunchy pecans, bring all the warmth and comfort of the season right into your kitchen. Whether you enjoy them with a hot cup of spiced tea, share them at a fall gathering, or experiment with the delightful variations we’ve suggested, these scones are sure to become a favorite in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I store leftover scones?
Leftover scones can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the scones in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
Can I substitute the pecans with another type of nut?
Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Each nut will bring its unique flavor and texture to the scones, so feel free to experiment with your favorite.
What can I use if I don’t have maple syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, you can use honey or agave syrup as a substitute. While the flavor will be slightly different, both options will still provide the sweetness and moisture needed for the scones.
How do I make gluten-free Maple Pecan Scones?
To make gluten-free scones, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Follow the recipe as directed, and you should achieve a similar texture and taste. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, such as baking powder, are also gluten-free.
