If you’re looking for the perfect cozy treat to warm up your mornings or delight your afternoon tea time, look no further than this Sweet Apple Cinnamon Scones with Vanilla Glaze Recipe. These scones are an absolute joy to bake and even more joyful to eat, combining tender, flaky pastry with the natural sweetness of diced apples and the comforting spices of cinnamon and nutmeg. Topped with a luscious vanilla glaze, every bite feels like a warm hug—ideal for sharing with loved ones or savoring on your own with a steaming cup of coffee.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, bringing out the scones’ perfect texture, flavor, and that golden hue that makes these scones so inviting. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why each one is important for this Sweet Apple Cinnamon Scones with Vanilla Glaze Recipe.
- Buttermilk (½ cup, cold): Adds moisture and a slight tang that tenderizes the dough beautifully.
- Unsweetened apple sauce (¼ cup): Brings moisture and adds subtle apple sweetness without extra fat.
- Dark brown sugar (¼ cup, packed): Gives a rich, caramel-like sweetness that deepens the flavor.
- Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Enhances the overall aroma and complements both the apples and cinnamon.
- Large egg (1): Provides structure and richness to the scone dough.
- Cooking spray: Prevents sticking on your baking sheet for perfect removal.
- White whole wheat flour (1 cup): Adds a mild nuttiness and extra fiber, balancing the texture.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): The cornerstone of the dough, offering the right gluten balance for tender scones.
- Baking powder (1 tbsp): Essential leavening agent to make the scones rise nicely.
- Cinnamon (1 tbsp): Brings that warm spice that pairs so perfectly with apple.
- Nutmeg (¼ tsp): Adds a subtle depth and warmth, rounding out the spiced profile.
- Salt (½ tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Butter (3 tbsp, chilled and diced): Creates that flaky, tender texture when cut into the flour mixture.
- Diced apples (2 cups, peeled): The star ingredient, offering fresh bursts of juicy, tart flavor throughout.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup, sifted): For the vanilla glaze, smoothing out the top with sweet elegance.
- Cinnamon (½ tsp) and nutmeg (pinch) for glaze: To echo the spiced notes in the scones for a harmonious finish.
- Cold fat-free milk (2 tbsp plus ½ tbsp if needed): Helps achieve that perfect glaze consistency.
How to Make Sweet Apple Cinnamon Scones with Vanilla Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F—it’s always best to get your oven ready so it’s perfectly hot when your scones are shaped. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cold buttermilk, unsweetened apple sauce, dark brown sugar, vanilla extract, and the large egg. This blend pulses moisture and sweetness that will marry wonderfully with your dry ingredients later on.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Surface
Give your baking sheet a good spray with cooking spray to ensure your scones won’t stick. This small but crucial step makes cleanup a breeze and keeps those scones intact when you lift them off the pan.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Cut in Butter
In a large bowl, whisk together the white whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt for that spiced base. Then, add in the chilled butter pieces. Use a pastry blender or two knives to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This process creates those flaky pockets inside the scones that everyone adores.
Step 4: Fold in the Apples
Gently fold in the diced apples. These fresh, juicy pieces provide the sweet and crisp contrast that makes these scones uniquely delightful. Be careful not to overmix—you want the apples evenly dispersed without breaking down their texture.
Step 5: Combine Dough and Lightly Knead
Pour your buttermilk mixture into the dry ingredients and fold just until everything is moistened. Overmixing can toughen the dough, so a light touch is key. Then, turn your dough out onto a floured surface and knead it lightly four times with floured hands—this sets the structure without losing tenderness.
Step 6: Shape and Cut the Scones
Pat the dough into a 9-inch circle about ¾ inch thick directly on the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, cut the circle into 12 equal wedges, cutting all the way through. This makes serving easy and gives you those classic scone wedges everyone loves.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the scones turn a beautiful golden color. The aroma that fills the kitchen here is incredible—spiced apple heaven!
Step 8: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze
While the scones cool on a rack for about 10 minutes, whisk together the powdered sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and 2 tablespoons of cold milk. If the glaze is too thick, add an extra half tablespoon of milk, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches a smooth, pourable consistency that’s perfect for drizzling or dipping.
Step 9: Glaze the Scones
Place the cooled scones on parchment or wax paper. Drizzle the glaze over the tops with a spoon or dip each scone’s top into the glaze, letting the excess drip off. Allow the glaze to set slightly before serving for that irresistible, glossy finish.
How to Serve Sweet Apple Cinnamon Scones with Vanilla Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra ground cinnamon or finely chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts on top of your glazed scones for extra texture and a nutty aroma that pairs wonderfully with the apple cinnamon base.
Side Dishes
These scones are fantastic with a side of fresh fruit salad to amplify the apple theme or a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone for extra indulgence. Pair with your favorite hot beverage—black tea, chai, or coffee all go perfectly here.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve your scones on a rustic wooden board with fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks as décor. You can also sandwich them with a layer of cream cheese and apple butter for a delightful twist that your guests will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, keep your scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain their soft, tender crumb without drying out. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before storing!
Freezing
Want to enjoy these scones later? Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep beautifully frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw them at room temperature.
Reheating
To bring your scones back to life, warm them in a preheated 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes. This warms the interior softly and refreshes the flaky texture on the outside. Avoid microwaving as it can make them rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness and firmness, you can use Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala for a sweeter, softer bite. Just keep the dice fairly small so they cook through evenly during baking.
Is it possible to make these scones dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the buttermilk with a mix of dairy-free milk and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic acidity. Replace butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil that’s chilled, and use a plant-based milk for the glaze.
How do I make sure my scones are flaky and tender?
The key is using chilled butter and cutting it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Don’t overmix the dough once you add the wet ingredients—this keeps the gluten from developing too much, ensuring a tender scone.
Can I make smaller or larger scones?
Definitely! Feel free to shape your scones smaller for bite-sized treats or larger for a more filling snack. Just adjust the baking time accordingly—smaller scones will bake faster, larger will need a bit longer, so watch for that golden color.
What’s the best way to get the glaze consistency right?
Start with 2 tablespoons of cold milk mixed into your powdered sugar, then slowly add more, one teaspoon at a time, until it’s smooth but still thick enough to cling to the scones without running off. It should pour easily but hold its shape.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got this wonderful Sweet Apple Cinnamon Scones with Vanilla Glaze Recipe, you’re all set to whip up a batch of comforting, flavorful scones that feel like a warm embrace in every bite. Whether for breakfast, tea, or a cozy snack, they’re sure to become a beloved go-to in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and don’t forget to share!
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Sweet Apple Cinnamon Scones with Vanilla Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 scones
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Apple Scones are tender, lightly spiced pastries filled with fresh diced Granny Smith apples and topped with a sweet cinnamon glaze. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat, they combine the heartiness of whole wheat flour with the moistness of buttermilk and applesauce, resulting in moist, flavorful scones that are easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (cold)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened apple sauce
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup white whole wheat flour
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
Butter and Fruit
- 3 tbsp butter (chilled, cut into small pieces)
- 2 cups diced apples (peeled, Granny Smith recommended)
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch nutmeg
- 2 tbsp cold fat free milk (plus 1/2 tbsp if needed)
Other
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure even baking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cold buttermilk, unsweetened applesauce, dark brown sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until thoroughly combined.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the white whole wheat flour, all purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until evenly mixed.
- Cut in Butter: Add the chilled, small pieces of butter to the dry mixture. Using a pastry blender or two knives, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse meal with pea-sized bits.
- Add Apples: Fold the diced peeled apples gently into the flour-butter mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Add Wet Mixture: Pour the wet buttermilk mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until the dough becomes moist and holds together; avoid overmixing.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead lightly about four times with floured hands to bring it together without toughening it.
- Shape Dough: Form the dough into a 9-inch circle about 3/4 inch thick directly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Score Dough: Using a knife, cut the dough into 12 equal wedges all the way through to allow individual scones to separate after baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Cool: Transfer scones to a cooling rack and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes.
- Prepare Glaze: While the scones cool, mix the sifted powdered sugar with cinnamon, nutmeg, and 2 tablespoons of cold fat free milk in a bowl. Add an additional 1/2 tablespoon milk as needed to achieve a smooth glaze with the right drizzling consistency.
- Glaze Scones: Place the scones on parchment or wax paper and drizzle the glaze over them using a spoon, or dip the tops into the glaze. Allow the glaze to harden before serving.
Notes
- Use cold butter and buttermilk to achieve tender, flaky scones.
- Dicing apples into uniform small pieces helps distribute flavor and ensures even baking.
- Do not overmix or overknead the dough to keep scones tender.
- Glaze can be adjusted in thickness by adding more or less milk.
- Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
