Looking for a delightful treat that’s easy to make? You’re in the right place! These Maple Pecan Scones are packed with flavor and perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you can whip up bakery-style scones at home. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe and elevate your baking game!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
– Additional maple syrup and chopped pecans for drizzling on top
Gather these ingredients before you start. The dry ingredients create the base. You mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt well. This mix gives your scones structure. Next, the wet ingredients add moisture and flavor. Cold butter is key for flaky scones. It keeps the dough light. Heavy cream and maple syrup add a rich taste.
Don’t forget the pecans! They bring a nice crunch and nutty flavor. You can use any nuts you like, but pecans work best here. The egg wash gives your scones a lovely golden color. Finally, drizzle more maple syrup and sprinkle pecans on top. This makes your scones look and taste amazing.
With these ingredients, you are ready to bake. Trust me; your kitchen will smell wonderful! Enjoy the process and the delicious results.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Start by getting your oven hot. This step is key for a nice rise. The parchment paper helps the scones not stick.
Combine Ingredients
– Whisk together dry ingredients.
– Blend in the cubed butter until coarse crumbs form.
In a large bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and pecans. You want these dry ingredients well combined. Add the cold butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until it looks like coarse crumbs. This adds flakiness to your scones.
Mix Wet Ingredients
– Combine heavy cream, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
– Gradually add wet mixture to dry ingredients.
In another bowl, mix the heavy cream, maple syrup, and vanilla. Slowly pour this into the dry mix. Stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the scones tough, and we want them light and fluffy.
Shape and Bake
– Knead the dough, pat into a circle, and cut into wedges.
– Transfer to baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Gently knead it a few times until it holds together. Pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut this into 8 wedges. Place them on your baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a nice golden color. Bake for 15-18 minutes until they are golden brown. Enjoy the warm, sweet smell filling your kitchen!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the best texture in your scones, avoid overmixing. When you add the wet mix to the dry ingredients, stir gently. Mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing makes the dough tough.
Cold butter is key for flaky scones. It helps create layers in the dough. Keep your butter in the fridge until you need it. Cut it into small cubes for easy blending. This way, it stays cold and works well.
Flavor Enhancements
You can play with flavors in your scones. Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. You can also try different nuts. Walnuts or almonds work great too!
Using flavored extracts adds depth to your scones. Consider maple extract for a stronger maple taste. You can also try almond or hazelnut extract. These options make your scones more exciting.
Presentation Tips
Drizzling syrup can elevate your scones. Use a spoon to drizzle maple syrup on top. Make sure to cover the scones evenly. This adds sweetness and shine.
Sprinkle chopped pecans on top after drizzling. This adds a nice crunch and makes them look pretty.
Pair your scones with drinks like coffee or tea. A warm cup of chai tea goes well with the flavors. You can also serve them with hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can easily make maple pecan scones more fun. Try adding chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries or blueberries. They add a nice burst of flavor. If you want to switch nuts, walnuts or almonds work well too. They give a unique taste and texture. Just chop them up and mix them in with the other ingredients. Each new flavor makes the scones more exciting!
Dietary Modifications
If you need a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it has a binding agent like xanthan gum. For a dairy-free version, swap heavy cream with coconut cream. This gives a lovely richness without the dairy. You can also make vegan scones by using flaxseed meal or chia seeds instead of the egg wash. Just mix one tablespoon of flaxseed or chia with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes. This will help bind the scone together. Enjoy your tasty treats no matter your diet!
Storage Info
How to Store Scones
To keep your maple pecan scones fresh, place them in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and prevents them from drying out. If you want them to stay nice and soft, store them at room temperature. Avoid the fridge, as it may make them tough. You can also wrap them in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. This extra layer helps protect them.
Freezing Scones
Freezing your scones is easy. First, let them cool completely after baking. Then, wrap each scone in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped scones in a freezer bag or container. This keeps them fresh for up to three months. When you are ready to eat them, take one out and let it thaw at room temperature. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This makes the scone warm and fresh again.
Shelf Life
In an airtight container at room temperature, scones last about 2-3 days. If you store them in the fridge, they can stay good for up to a week. In the freezer, they are safe for up to three months. Just remember, the sooner you eat them, the better they taste!
FAQs
How to prevent scones from being dry?
To keep scones moist, use cold butter. Cut it into small pieces and mix quickly. This helps form flaky layers. Use heavy cream instead of milk for extra richness. Avoid overmixing the dough. Stop mixing as soon as the dry ingredients blend with the wet. Also, bake the scones just until they are golden. This keeps them soft and tender.
Can I make scones ahead of time?
Yes, you can make scones ahead of time! You can prepare the dough and shape the scones. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Freeze the shaped scones for up to a month. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. You can also bake them, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container.
What to serve with maple pecan scones?
Maple pecan scones pair well with many delicious options. You can serve them with butter or cream cheese for spreading. A drizzle of warm maple syrup adds sweetness. Fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples also makes a great side. If you want a drink, try serving them with coffee or tea. This adds a cozy touch to your meal!
In this post, I covered how to make delicious maple pecan scones. We started with the right dry and wet ingredients, then I guided you through mixing and baking. We talked about tips for perfect texture, flavor add-ins, and how to present your scones beautifully. You now have the tools to store and freeze them, too.
Enjoy creating your unique twists on this classic treat. Your perfect scone is just a bake away!
