If you are looking for a cozy, buttery treat that brings the warmth of fall right to your kitchen, this Apple Scones with Cinnamon and Maple Glaze Recipe is exactly what you need. These tender scones, bursting with juicy diced apples and a hint of cinnamon, get an irresistible finishing touch from a sweet maple glaze that’s both simple and spectacular. Every bite feels like a hug, making this recipe a perfect way to start your morning or enjoy an afternoon snack with a comforting cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is surprisingly straightforward, yet each plays a vital role in delivering the perfect texture and flavor. From the crispness of fresh apples to the rich buttery notes and the sweet warmth of cinnamon, every element works harmoniously to create those iconic scones you’ll want to bake again and again.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your scones providing structure and a tender crumb.
- 1 cup diced apples: Adds natural sweetness and moisture—Granny Smith apples work wonderfully.
- ½ cup cold butter: Important for that flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture, so keep it chilled!
- ⅓ cup sugar: Sweetens the dough just enough without overpowering the apple’s natural flavor.
- ½ cup milk: Brings the dough together while keeping it moist and tender.
- 1 egg: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients for a cohesive dough.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Infuses the scones with warm, spicy notes that feel like fall in every bite.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Essential for lightness and rise, making sure your scones aren’t dense.
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates a sweet and smooth drizzle that complements the apples perfectly.
- 2 tbsp maple syrup: Gives the glaze a unique, rich flavor and natural sweetness.
- 1–2 tsp milk (for glaze): Adjusts the consistency of the glaze for that perfect drizzle.
How to Make Apple Scones with Cinnamon and Maple Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This allows your scones to bake evenly and develop a golden-brown color. While the oven heats, prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper or a non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cut Butter into Dry Ingredients
Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon in a large bowl. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter, forks, or your fingertips to incorporate the butter into the dry mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for that tender, flaky texture that makes scones so wonderful.
Step 3: Add Apples, Egg, and Milk
Gently fold in the diced apples. Beat the egg lightly, then pour it along with the milk into the flour mixture. Stir until just combined—overmixing can make the scones tough, so take care to bring the dough together without overworking it.
Step 4: Shape and Cut the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a disk about 1-inch thick. Using a sharp knife, slice the disk into eight equal wedges. This is where the scones start to take their classic shape and look incredibly inviting.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the wedges on your prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly as the cinnamon and apples mingle during the baking process.
Step 6: Prepare and Drizzle the Maple Glaze
While the scones cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk to form a smooth glaze. Adjust the milk to get your desired consistency—thicker for drizzling or a bit thinner for a lighter coating. Drizzle generously over the warm scones and get ready to enjoy a flavor sensation.
How to Serve Apple Scones with Cinnamon and Maple Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped pecans or a pinch of cinnamon powder on top of the glaze adds a lovely texture contrast and enhances the fall flavor. Fresh apple slices alongside the scones can also brighten up your presentation and add a crisp freshness that pairs beautifully with the baked fruit inside.
Side Dishes
Apple Scones with Cinnamon and Maple Glaze Recipe shine brightest when paired with a hot beverage like chai tea, spiced coffee, or a creamy latte. For a heartier breakfast, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a simple yogurt parfait with granola—it turns your snack into a balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the scones with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of extra maple syrup for a stunning brunch centerpiece. You could even turn these into mini sandwich treats filled with cream cheese and thin apple slices for an elegant twist that’s sure to impress at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They maintain their tender texture best this way, ready for a quick snack or breakfast the next day.
Freezing
To enjoy these scones over time, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze beautifully for up to three months, so you can have a taste of fall whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
Warm frozen or leftover scones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep their delightful flaky texture intact. A quick zap in the toaster oven works nicely too if you’re short on time.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness and hold their texture well, feel free to use other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples may make the scones sweeter overall.
Is it okay to substitute butter with margarine or oil?
Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, especially the flaky layers. Margarine might work in a pinch, but oil is not advised as it changes the dough’s consistency and won’t produce the same tender crumb.
Can I make the glaze in advance?
Yes, the maple glaze can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a quick stir before using and add a splash of milk if it becomes too thick.
What if I don’t have powdered sugar for the glaze?
You can make a simple alternative with regular granulated sugar by grinding it into a fine powder using a food processor. This homemade powdered sugar works well for the glaze’s smooth texture.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
With some ingredient swaps, like using vegan butter and a plant-based milk, along with a flax egg instead of a regular egg, you can definitely adapt this recipe to vegan preferences. The flavors will still be delightful!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about baking Apple Scones with Cinnamon and Maple Glaze Recipe that fills your home with warmth and comfort. Once you try these scones, they’ll quickly become one of your favorites to bake whenever you crave a bit of cozy sweetness. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful recipe—fall mornings have never tasted so good!
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Apple Scones with Cinnamon and Maple Glaze Recipe
- Total Time: 32 mins
- Yield: 8 scones
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tender apple scones infused with warm cinnamon and baked to golden perfection, then drizzled with a sweet and smooth maple glaze. These cozy, buttery scones are ideal for fall mornings or a comforting breakfast treat.
Ingredients
Scones:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup diced apples (preferably Granny Smith)
- ½ cup cold butter, cut into pieces
- ⅓ cup sugar
- ½ cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking powder
Maple Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1–2 tsp milk, as needed to thin glaze
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s properly heated for baking the scones evenly.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients and Butter: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, cinnamon, and baking powder. Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Apples and Wet Ingredients: Gently fold in the diced apples. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk, then pour this mixture into your flour and butter mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms—do not overmix to keep the scones tender.
- Shape Dough and Cut: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a round disk about 1 inch thick. Using a sharp knife, cut the disk into 8 wedges.
- Bake the Scones: Place the wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the scones are golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Prepare Maple Glaze: While the scones bake, whisk together the powdered sugar and maple syrup in a small bowl. Add milk 1 teaspoon at a time to achieve a drizzling consistency.
- Glaze the Scones: Once the scones have cooled slightly, drizzle the maple glaze generously over each scone and allow the glaze to set before serving.
Notes
- Granny Smith apples are preferred as their tartness complements the sweet glaze and holds up well in baking.
- For taller, fluffier scones, chill the dough for 15-30 minutes before baking.
- Do not overwork the dough to avoid tough scones.
- If desired, add a pinch of salt to the dry ingredients to balance sweetness.
- Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 17 mins
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
