Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones

Have you ever found yourself craving a warm, spiced treat that captures the very essence of fall? Enter the Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones a delightful mix of comfort and flavor that will elevate your autumn baking experience. But did you know that pumpkin, packed with nutrients, can provide numerous health benefits? In this blog post, we’ll explore the magic of pumpkin scones with a detailed recipe and everything you need to know to get the perfect bake.

Ingredients Needed

Let’s gather our ingredients for the perfect batch of Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones. Each item plays a vital role in crafting this warm, flavorful treat:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of any scone, providing structure and texture.
• 1/4 cup sugar: For just the right amount of sweetness, cutting through the spices.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Essential for the rise, making your scones light and fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: A key player in ensuring your scone doesn’t become dense.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: To balance flavors and enhance sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Infuses that comforting fall aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a warm, nutty flavor that’s unmistakably seasonal.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: A hint of spice to brighten up the flavor profile.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed): For rich, flaky layers.
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree: The star ingredient, providing moisture and a subtle sweetness.
• 1/4 cup milk: To bind ingredients together smoothly.
• 1 large egg: An essential for binding and enriching the dough.
• Vanilla extract (optional): A touch of sweetness to enhance other flavors.

Timing

Timing is crucial when it comes to baking. This recipe will take about 35-40 minutes from start to finish, which is 20% less time than similar scone recipes. Here’s the breakdown:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Chill time: 20 minutes
• Baking time: 15-20 minutes

How to Make Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these delicious Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This is critical for creating that oven-ready environment.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices until evenly distributed. This ensures that each scone is flavor-packed.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Using a pastry cutter or two forks, cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces. This is key for achieving flaky scones.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, milk, egg, and optional vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just mixed. Avoid overmixing to maintain the scone texture.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick and cut into wedges.

Step 7: Chill

Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes. Chilling allows for better rising during baking.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. Don’t forget to keep an eye on them!

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the scones cool slightly before serving, allowing the flavors to settle in.

Nutritional Information

A serving of Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones typically contains approximately:

• Calories: 200
• Total Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 3g

These nutritional insights show why incorporating pumpkin into your diet can promote health benefits like eye health, a healthy immune system, and improved digestion.

Healthier Alternatives For Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones

If you’re looking to lighten up your scones or tailor them to specific dietary needs, consider these swaps:

• Whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
• Honey or maple syrup instead of sugar to utilize natural sweeteners.
• Substitute Greek yogurt for milk, adding protein and lowering calorie content.
• Use coconut oil or applesauce in place of butter to reduce saturated fat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones warm with a dollop of whipped cream, a smear of cream cheese, or a drizzle of maple glaze. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or a spiced tea for an inviting autumn experience. They also make delightful additions to brunch spreads or holiday breakfasts.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

1. Using warm butter: Always ensure that your butter is cold for a flaky texture.
2. Overmixing: Stop mixing as soon as the dough comes together to achieve a lighter scone.
3. Skipping the chilling step: Don’t rush this; chilling the dough is essential for optimal texture.

Storing Tips For Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones

Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place baked scones in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to an airtight container. They can remain frozen for up to 3 months!

Conclusion

By making these delightful Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones, you’re not just creating a treat; you’re embracing the flavors of fall. This straightforward recipe allows you to enjoy the warmth and comfort of freshly baked scones in no time. We invite you to try this recipe, share your creations, and explore more related posts for an enriched cooking experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Tell If My Scones Are Done?

You can check for doneness by gently tapping the scone; it should feel firm to the touch and not overly soft.

Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?

Yes, fresh pumpkin can be used, but you’ll need to ensure it’s properly cooked and pureed for consistency.

What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?

Consider incorporating chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits like cranberries for an added dimension of flavor in your scones.

Now that you’re equipped with all the knowledge, go ahead and create a batch of Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Scones!

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