Gingerbread Scones Recipe

This Gingerbread Scones Recipe is a delightful treat to warm your heart during the chilly months. With its spiced aroma and buttery texture, these scones are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack paired with your favorite hot beverage. The unique blend of spices will fill your kitchen with a comforting scent, making them an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep, making it simple even for beginner bakers.
• Versatile Snack: Enjoy these scones with coffee, tea, or as a sweet addition to brunch.
• Delicious Aroma: The warm spices create an inviting atmosphere, enhancing the joy of fall and winter gatherings.
• Customizable Icing: Top them with a quick icing made from powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Perfectly Textured: Fluffy on the inside and slightly crunchy on top, these scones are a delight in every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather the essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Cookie sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all your ingredients without spilling.
• Pastry cutter or fork: These tools help incorporate butter into the flour efficiently, ensuring even texture.
• Cookie sheet: A good quality cookie sheet ensures even baking and browning of your scones.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious gingerbread scones recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Scones

• 2 cups unbleached white flour (8oz/240g)
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar, coconut sugar, date sugar, or regular
• 1 tsp granulated sugar, for sprinkling on top
• 1/2 cup cold butter in cubes (or vegan butter) (4oz/115g)
• 1/4 cup molasses (3oz/85g)
• 1/2 cup milk, any kind – cow, coconut, almond, etc.
• 1 tsp milk, for top

For the Icing (Optional)

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp melted butter, or vegan butter
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• ½ tsp pure vanilla extract

How to Make Gingerbread Scones Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Combine all dry ingredients: flour, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, baking powder, salt, and 2 tablespoons of sugar.

Step 3: Cut in Butter

Using a pastry cutter or fork:
– Cut the cold butter cubes into the flour mixture until it resembles small peas.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in:
– 1/2 cup milk and 1/4 cup molasses. Stir until just combined.

Step 5: Form Dough

With your hands:
– Bring the dough together gently. Flatten onto a cookie sheet into a circle about 3/4 thick.

Step 6: Brush & Sprinkle

Brush with:
– 1 teaspoon of milk. Sprinkle with the remaining teaspoon of sugar for crunchiness.

Step 7: Cut Wedges

Cut the dough circle:
– Into 8 wedges using a sharp knife.

Step 8: Bake

Place in preheated oven:
– Bake for 15-20 minutes until they are risen and golden brown.

Step 9: Icing (Optional)

For added sweetness:
– In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread over warm scones quickly as it sets fast!

Enjoy your freshly baked gingerbread scones with a warm drink!

How to Serve Gingerbread Scones Recipe

Gingerbread scones are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a cozy brunch or simply indulging during a quiet afternoon, these scones can be paired with delightful accompaniments.

With Coffee

• Enjoy these scones alongside a hot cup of your favorite coffee for the perfect morning treat.

With Tea

• Pair your gingerbread scones with a warm cup of herbal or black tea for a soothing afternoon snack.

Spread with Butter

• Slather on some butter or vegan spread to enhance the richness of the scones, making each bite even more delicious.

Drizzled with Icing

• Add a touch of sweetness by drizzling icing over your scones; this makes them more festive and appealing.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside seasonal fruits like sliced apples or pears to add freshness and balance to the flavors.

How to Perfect Gingerbread Scones Recipe

Creating the ideal gingerbread scone requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use cold ingredients: Ensure your butter and milk are cold; this helps create flaky layers in the scones.
• Don’t overwork the dough: Mix just until incorporated to keep your scones tender and light.
• Use a sharp knife: When cutting into wedges, using a sharp knife will give you clean edges and prevent squishing.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to match your taste—add more ginger or cinnamon for extra warmth.
• Store properly: Keep leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Gingerbread Scones Recipe

Gingerbread scones pair well with various side dishes that complement their warm flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A mix of fresh fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the scones.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast that enhances breakfast.

3. Cheese Platter
   Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese that provide a savory note against the sweet scone.

4. Chutney
   A tangy fruit chutney can add an exciting flavor dimension when served alongside gingerbread scones.

5. Savory Quiche
   A slice of quiche offers protein and richness, perfect for a hearty brunch experience.

6. Pumpkin Soup
   This warm soup makes a comforting pairing that accentuates fall flavors beautifully.

7. Hot Cocoa
   For those chilly days, serving gingerbread scones with hot cocoa creates a cozy treat.

8. Cinnamon Applesauce
   A dollop of spiced applesauce brings moisture and additional sweetness that complements every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making gingerbread scones can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Incorrect Measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Using too much flour or too little butter can alter the texture significantly.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough scones instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Skipping Chilling the Butter: Use cold butter for the best results. Room temperature butter won’t create the same flaky texture.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated to 425°F before baking. A hot oven helps scones rise properly and achieve a golden crust.
• Not Cutting Wedges Evenly: Cut your dough into equal wedges for even baking. Uneven sizes can lead to some scones being undercooked while others are overdone.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Gingerbread Scones Recipe

• Freeze scones individually wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container after wrapping.

Reheating Gingerbread Scones Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat each scone on medium power for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as they may become tough.
• Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a skillet covered with a lid for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this gingerbread scones recipe.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. However, the texture may be denser.

How do I customize the gingerbread scones recipe?

You can add nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips to the dough for extra flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have molasses?

You can substitute molasses with honey or maple syrup, but be aware that it will change the flavor profile slightly.

How do I make my gingerbread scones spicier?

Increase the amount of ground ginger or cinnamon according to your preference for a spicier flavor.

Final Thoughts

This gingerbread scones recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Perfect as a snack or paired with coffee or tea, these scones provide warmth during chilly seasons. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings for an added twist!