Perfect with coffee or tea - better than the store-bought version!
These pumpkin scones taste EXACTLY like Starbucks but cost $0.50 each! Flaky, buttery layers and that iconic spiced glaze make these irresistible. Make 8 bakery-size scones for your morning coffee ritual.
Whether you're craving a cozy fall breakfast or a coffee shop treat, these scones deliver that perfect balance of warm spices and buttery goodness. The secret? Cold butter and a light hand when mixing the dough.
With real pumpkin puree and a glaze that mirrors Starbucks' signature cinnamon swirl, you'll never buy store-bought again. Plus, they freeze perfectly for fresh-baked anytime!
This recipe makes 8 large scones that taste just like the bakery version. Perfect for coffee pairing, afternoon tea, or fall baking fun. Let's make those scones!
Why This Recipe Works
Authentic Flavor
Recreate Starbucks' pumpkin scone flavor exactly - the same warm spices, flaky texture, and signature glaze that makes them famous.
Budget-Friendly
Cost $0.50 each versus $3+ at stores. Make 8 scones for under $4 - that's 80% savings while maintaining premium quality.
Quick Baking
Ready in 40 minutes total. Mix dough in 15 minutes, bake while you prepare the glaze for perfect timing coordination.
Make-Ahead Friendly
Unbaked scones freeze perfectly. Bake fresh when needed for that just-out-of-oven flavor whenever you want.
Pumpkin Scones Recipe
Starbucks Copycat Version
Ingredients
- - 2 cups all-purpose flour
- - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- - 1 tbsp baking powder
- - 1/2 tsp salt
- - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- - 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- - 1/4 tsp allspice
- - 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- - 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
- - 1 large egg
- - 1/4 cup milk
- - 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
Prepare Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and spices. Add cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter to work into the flour until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
💡 Use ice-cold butter for flaky layers. The colder the butter, the better the texture.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix pumpkin puree, egg, and milk. Add to dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don't overmix - it's okay if there are small lumps.
💡 Overmixing makes tough scones. Stop when dough is just combined.
Shape Dough: Turn dough onto a floured surface. Knead gently 2-3 times. Pat into 1-inch thick round. Cut into 8 wedges using a sharp knife.
💡 For bakery-size scones, make sure your dough is at least 1 inch thick.
Bake: Place on parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with heavy cream. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes until golden and toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
💡 For extra golden tops, brush with cream before baking.
Prepare Glaze: In a bowl, mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 tbsp pumpkin spice, 2-3 tbsp milk, and 1 tsp cinnamon. Adjust consistency as needed.
💡 Add more milk for thinner glaze. For extra cinnamon flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg.
Glaze Scones: While still warm, drizzle glaze over scones. Let glaze set before serving for perfect texture.
💡 Glaze works best when scones are still warm but not hot.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree
Use 100% pumpkin puree (not pie filling). Canned or homemade works equally well. Look for puree with no added sugar for best flavor.
Substitutions: Sweet potato puree for a different fall flavor.
Cold Butter
Cold butter is essential for creating flaky layers. If your butter is room temperature, chill it in the freezer for 15 minutes before using.
Substitutions: Use vegetable shortening for a vegan version.
Pumpkin Spices
The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice creates the signature fall flavor. Use pumpkin spice blend as shortcut.
Substitutions: Increase cinnamon slightly if using store-bought spice mix.
Glaze
The glaze is what makes these scones special. Adjust consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
Substitutions: Add orange zest for a citrus twist.
Pro Tips for Perfect Scones
Freezing Tips
Bake scones without glaze, let cool completely, then freeze in airtight bags. Thaw at room temperature and add glaze before serving for bakery-fresh taste.
Pairing Ideas
These scones pair perfectly with hot coffee, chai tea, or apple cider. For a decadent treat, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Serving Suggestions
Warm scones with a glass of milk make a classic breakfast combo. For dinner, serve with roasted squash and maple syrup.
Storage Tips
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze glazed scones in single layers separated by parchment paper.
Variations & Customizations
Spiced Cinnamon Twist
Add 1 tsp ground cinnamon to the glaze for extra warmth. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before baking for added texture.
Chocolate Chip Version
Fold 1/2 cup chocolate chips into the dough before shaping. This creates a pumpkin chocolate chip scone with dual flavors.
Vegan Version
Use vegan butter, flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water), and substitute milk with almond milk. Make sure your baking powder is vegan.
Mini Scones
Cut dough into 12 smaller pieces for mini scones. Bake 12-15 minutes until golden. Perfect for tea parties or appetizers.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Hot coffee or tea for classic breakfast pairing
- Apple cider for a cozy fall morning
- Vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat
- Roasted squash for a seasonal dinner
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with medium-bodied coffee, chai tea, or a spiced apple cider. For wine lovers, a buttery Chardonnay complements the spices.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare dough up to 24 hours in advance. Wrap tightly and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Refrigerator Storage
Store baked scones in airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore freshness.
Freezer Storage
Freeze unglazed scones for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature then add glaze and reheat. Glazed scones freeze well but may weep slightly.
Reheating Instructions
For best results, reheat in oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. Microwave works but may make scones soggy.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: My scones are too dense. What did I do wrong?
A: Likely overmixed the dough. Scones require gentle handling. Stop mixing as soon as the dough comes together.
Q: Can I make these in advance?
A: Yes! Prepare dough up to 24 hours ahead. Store refrigerated until ready to bake. Perfect for busy mornings.
Q: How to make vegan scones?
A: Use vegan butter, flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water), and substitute milk with almond milk. Make sure your baking powder is vegan.
Q: Can I use store-bought pumpkin spice?
A: Yes, but check the ingredients. Some mixes contain added sugar. Adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly.
Final Thoughts
These pumpkin scones are the perfect combination of fall flavors and coffee shop quality. With real pumpkin puree, warm spices, and that signature glaze, they're an instant fall favorite. Whether you're enjoying them with morning coffee or sharing at a seasonal gathering, these scones will become a kitchen staple.
The best part? You're saving over 80% compared to store-bought versions while knowing exactly what's in your food. Make a batch today and enjoy the taste of fall in every bite!
