Apple Cinnamon Scones

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Apple-cinnamon scones should become a fall staple in your home! These delicious scones are topped with cinnamon shavings and chopped apples, then covered with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping. They smell and taste like a perfect fall morning!

Pumpkin and apples are the essential ingredients of autumn. And with October fast approaching, I am more than ready for the baking season!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These apple cinnamon scones are the epitome of autumn comfort. With their tender, flaky texture and the warm aroma of cinnamon and apples wafting through your kitchen, they’re perfect for a cozy morning breakfast or an afternoon treat with tea. Plus, they’re simple to make and even easier to enjoy!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Pastry blender
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Whisk
• Brush for milk application

Ingredients

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon apple pie spice
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3/4 cup fresh apples, peeled and diced into 1/2″ pieces
• 3/4 cup cinnamon chips
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup applesauce, sweetened or unsweetened
• 2 1/2 tablespoons apple cider
• 1 tablespoon milk, for brushing
• 3 tablespoons white sparkling or raw sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and apple pie spice.
2. Add the cubed butter to the bowl. Using a pastry blender, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in the chopped apples and cinnamon chips.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, applesauce, and apple cider.
5. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth dough forms. Divide the dough in half.
6. On a floured surface, shape each dough half into a circle about 3/4″ thick.
7. Brush each circle with milk, then sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture made from the white sparkling sugar and ground cinnamon.
8. Cut each circle into 6 wedges, making a total of 12 scones. Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, spacing them 1/2″ to 1″ apart.
9. Freeze the scones, uncovered, on the baking sheet for 30 minutes.
10. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). After freezing, bake the scones for 18 to 22 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.
11. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving warm.

Tips for Success

• Using cold butter is crucial for achieving the flaky texture in scones.
• Don’t overwork the dough; mix just until combined to keep the scones tender.
• Freezing the scones before baking helps them keep their shape and rise better.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Try adding a handful of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for extra crunch.
• Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and apple cider over the scones for added sweetness.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 250 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 36g | Fat: 11g | Sugar: 12g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist, though the texture may be slightly denser.

How do I store leftover scones?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Conclusion

These Apple Cinnamon Scones are a delightful way to embrace the flavors of fall. Perfect for a weekend baking project or a special breakfast treat, they are sure to impress. Give them a try and let me know how they turned out in the comments below. Enjoy your baking!

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