Glazed Apple Scones with Cozy Fall Spices Recipe

I absolutely love starting my morning with these Glazed Apple Scones with Cozy Fall Spices Recipe because they feel like a warm, comforting hug wrapped up in a flaky, tender pastry. There’s just something magical about the blend of tender baked apples with cinnamon and nutmeg, and that sweet, shiny glaze really seals the deal. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or just craving a cozy teatime treat, these scones bring that perfect touch of fall to your kitchen.

When I first tried making these, I was amazed at how the spices work so beautifully with the apples—each bite feels like a little celebration of the season. You’ll find that this recipe is quite forgiving, ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pros wanting a reliable go-to for baking with apples and fall spices. Plus, making scones from scratch is so satisfying, especially when your whole home fills with that irresistible aroma!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe comes together beautifully with ingredients you probably have on hand, plus some fresh apples to elevate these scones from ordinary to absolutely dreamy. Whole wheat and all-purpose flours give a great balance of texture, and the cold butter is key to those flaky layers you’ll love.

• Cold buttermilk: Adds tanginess and helps tenderize the scones for that perfect crumb.
• Unsweetened applesauce: Boosts moisture naturally without extra fat or sugar.
• Dark brown sugar: For rich sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spices.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances and rounds out the flavor profile perfectly.
• Large egg: Adds structure and richness to the dough.
• White whole wheat flour: Gives a nuttier taste and a wholesome feel.
• All-purpose flour: Keeps the scones light and tender.
• Baking powder: The leavening that makes scones rise just right.
• Cinnamon: A must-have cozy spice that warms the palate.
• Nutmeg: Adds a subtle spicy depth alongside the cinnamon.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and unlocks flavors.
• Chilled butter: Cut into small pieces; essential for flaky layers!
• Diced apples: I usually use Granny Smith for that tart contrast, but any crisp apple works well.
• Powdered sugar: For the sweet, smooth glaze that finishes off the scones perfectly.
• Cold fat free milk: Mixes into the glaze for that just-right drizzly consistency.

Variations

I love playing around with this Glazed Apple Scones with Cozy Fall Spices Recipe depending on the season and my pantry stash. It’s so easy to tweak that you can make a new favorite without much effort, whether you want to lighten it up or add some extra flair.

• Use different apples: I once tried Fuji apples, which added a wonderful sweetness, making the scones even juicier.
• Add nuts: A handful of chopped pecans or walnuts mixed right into the dough brings in a lovely crunch that my family goes crazy for.
• Spice it up: For a little extra warmth, add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger to the spice mix—I found it gave a subtle but cozy depth.
• Gluten-free version: Swap flours for a gluten-free blend but remember to check your baking powder is gluten-free!

How to Make Glazed Apple Scones with Cozy Fall Spices Recipe

Step 1: Mix Your Wet Ingredients

Start by whisking together the cold buttermilk, unsweetened applesauce, dark brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a large egg in a medium bowl. I like to whisk these really well so the sugar dissolves nicely, which ensures every bite is perfectly sweet and moist. Keep this mixture handy while you prep the dry ingredients.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients and Cut in Butter

In a larger bowl, whisk together the white whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This dry mix forms the flavorful base for your scones.

Now here’s the trick I discovered: chill your butter well and then cut it into small pieces before combining. Using a pastry blender (or two knives if you don’t have one), cut the butter into the flour blend until it looks like coarse meal with pea-sized bits of butter throughout. Those tiny butter pockets are what create flaky layers when baked — don’t rush this step!

Step 3: Fold in the Apples and Add Wet Ingredients

Gently stir in the diced apples; I peel mine first to avoid tough skin pieces but leave them diced small enough to spread evenly throughout. Pour in the wet buttermilk mixture and fold the dough just until it comes together. It should be moist but not sticky—don’t overwork it or your scones may get tough.

Step 4: Shape and Cut the Dough

Lightly flour your countertop and turn the dough out. Knead it gently just four times with floured hands—enough to bring it together but still keep it tender. Pat the dough into a 9-inch circle about ¾ inch thick directly onto a baking sheet sprayed with cooking spray. Using a sharp knife, cut the circle into 12 wedges all the way through.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake in your preheated oven at 375°F for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the scones are beautifully golden on top. I usually check at 18 minutes and give them a little more time if needed because ovens vary. Once out, transfer them to a cooling rack for about 10 minutes so they firm up just right before glazing.

Step 6: Whip Up the Glaze and Drizzle

While the scones cool, stir powdered sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cold fat free milk together to make your glaze. If it feels too thick, add a half teaspoon of milk at a time until it pours smoothly but isn’t runny. You can drizzle the glaze over the scones with a spoon or go for dipping the tops—both ways look pretty and taste amazing. Let the glaze set on wax or parchment paper before serving.

How to Serve Glazed Apple Scones with Cozy Fall Spices Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling a tiny pinch of cinnamon or some finely chopped toasted pecans over the glaze right after drizzling—it gives a subtle crunch and boosts the fall flair. A small smear of butter or a smear of your favorite apple butter on the side also never goes amiss in my book.

Side Dishes

These scones pair wonderfully with a hot cup of chai tea or spiced coffee, which accentuates the warm cinnamon and nutmeg notes. For breakfast or brunch, I serve them alongside fresh fruit salad or a mild cheese plate for a lovely balance of sweet and savory.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive gathering, I arrange the scones in a circular pattern on a wooden platter and drizzle the glaze just before guests arrive. I’ve also wrapped a few individually in parchment with twine as charming little favors for holiday brunches—everyone loves the personal touch and the delicious treats!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After they’ve fully cooled, I place leftover scones in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb any moisture, then store them at room temperature. They usually last me about 2 days this way, still tasting fresh and flaky.

Freezing

I freeze unglazed scones individually on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This way they don’t stick together, and I can grab one or two anytime. When you’re ready, just let them thaw at room temp before glazing and serving.

Reheating

I pop leftover or thawed scones in a 325°F oven for 5-7 minutes to refresh their flakiness—much better than microwaving, which can make them soggy. After warming, drizzle with glaze or enjoy plain with butter or jam.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

These Glazed Apple Scones with Cozy Fall Spices Recipe have become such a beloved staple in my home because they are effortlessly delightful and truly embrace the flavors of the season. Whether you’re making them for a relaxing morning treat, a festive brunch, or gifting to friends, they always bring smiles and a sense of warmth. Give this recipe a try—you’ll soon find yourself reaching for it each autumn, just like I do, to fill your kitchen with that irresistible aroma and your heart with a cozy feeling.

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