Gingerbread Scones Recipe

This Gingerbread Scones Recipe is a delightful treat for the cooler months. Perfectly spiced and incredibly easy to make, these scones are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even an afternoon snack. Enjoy them with your favorite hot beverage for a comforting experience that captures the essence of fall and winter.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have fresh scones in no time.
• Versatile Snack: Great for breakfast, tea time, or as a festive dessert option.
• Delicious Flavors: The warm spices of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves create a cozy aroma and taste.
• Customizable Icing: Add your personal touch with a sweet glaze that complements the scones perfectly.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe makes eight scones—ideal for enjoying with family or friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your gingerbread scones, gather your tools. Having the right equipment on hand will help streamline the process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Cookie sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all the ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Pastry cutter or fork: These tools are essential for cutting butter into the flour mixture, achieving that perfect crumb texture.
• Cookie sheet: A sturdy cookie sheet ensures even baking and helps achieve that golden-brown finish.

Ingredients

This gingerbread scones recipe is perfect to make when the weather gets cooler. Curl up with your coffee and a gingerbread scone or three…a delicious way to enjoy fall or winter. Perfect for a snack, dessert, breakfast or brunch!

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, regular, etc.
• 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. This ensures that your scones will bake evenly and rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Cut in Butter

Using a pastry cutter or fork:
1. Cut cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs about the size of peas.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in:
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1/4 cup molasses

Stir until everything is just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Bring the dough together with your hands:
– Flatten it onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper (if using).
– Pat into a circle about 3/4 thick.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Brush the top with:
– 1 teaspoon of milk
– Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of sugar to create a crunchy topping.

Step 7: Cut and Bake

Cut into eight wedges:
– Bake at 425 F for 15–20 minutes until risen and golden brown.

Step 8: Prepare Optional Icing

In a small bowl:
– Whisk together all icing ingredients until smooth.

Step 9: Ice and Serve

Spread icing over warm scones quickly as it sets fast:
– Serve immediately with your favorite hot drink.

Enjoy every bite of these delightful gingerbread scones!

How to Serve Gingerbread Scones Recipe

Gingerbread scones are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy brunch or enjoying a quiet afternoon snack, these scones will surely impress.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair your gingerbread scones with a steaming cup of coffee or tea to enhance the flavors. The warmth of the beverage complements the spices in the scones beautifully.

Topped with Cream Cheese

• Spread a layer of cream cheese on your scone for a rich and tangy contrast to the sweetness. You can also add some honey for an extra touch.

Dipped in Chocolate

• Melt some dark or milk chocolate for dipping. The combination of gingerbread flavor and chocolate creates a decadent treat that is hard to resist.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange gingerbread scones on a festive dessert platter alongside other baked goods like cookies and pastries. This is perfect for holiday gatherings.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve your gingerbread scones with slices of fresh fruit such as apples or pears. The freshness balances the richness of the scone and adds color to your plate.

How to Perfect Gingerbread Scones Recipe

To achieve the best results with your gingerbread scones recipe, consider these helpful tips.

• Use cold butter: Cold butter creates flaky layers in the scones. Cut it into small cubes before mixing it with dry ingredients.
• Don’t overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense scones.
• Chill before baking: If time allows, chill your dough for 15-20 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape while rising.
• Adjust spices: Feel free to tweak the spice measurements according to your taste preferences. Adding more ginger or cinnamon can give an extra kick.
• Watch baking time: Keep an eye on your scones during baking. They should be golden brown but not overcooked, resulting in a dry texture.
• Store properly: To keep them fresh, store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.

Best Side Dishes for Gingerbread Scones Recipe

Complementing your gingerbread scones with side dishes enhances their appeal and satisfaction. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color, balancing the richness of the scone.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that pairs well with spiced flavors.
3. Savory Cheese Board: Include cheeses like brie or goat cheese along with nuts and dried fruits for a gourmet touch.
4. Spiced Hot Chocolate: A warm drink made with cocoa powder, milk, and spices makes for a cozy pairing during cooler months.
5. Apple Cinnamon Compote: Serve warm apple compote alongside your scones for added sweetness and warmth.
6. Herbed Butter Spread: Mix softened butter with fresh herbs to create a savory spread that complements sweet flavors perfectly.
7. Homemade Jam: Offer different fruit jams such as raspberry or apricot which will provide vibrant flavors against the spiced backdrop of gingerbread scones.
8. Chai Latte: A spiced chai latte provides warmth that works wonderfully with the flavors of gingerbread, creating a comforting snack experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking gingerbread scones can be a delightful experience, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough scones. Mix until just combined for a light texture.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking. Use an oven thermometer if needed.
• Skipping the sugar topping: The sugar adds a crunchy texture and sweetness. Don’t skip it for the best flavor!
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make the scones dry. Use a kitchen scale or fluff the flour before measuring.
• Using warm butter: Cold butter creates flaky layers. Ensure your butter is cold for the best results!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep at room temperature to maintain texture.

Freezing Gingerbread Scones Recipe

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating Gingerbread Scones Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat scone on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, and heat for 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this gingerbread scones recipe.

Can I substitute ingredients in the Gingerbread Scones Recipe?

Yes! You can use vegan butter instead of regular butter and any plant-based milk as alternatives.

How should I serve the Gingerbread Scones Recipe?

These scones are perfect with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. Enjoy them plain or drizzled with icing!

How can I customize my Gingerbread Scones Recipe?

Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

What type of flour works best in this Gingerbread Scones Recipe?

Unbleached white flour is recommended, but you can also use whole wheat flour for added nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This gingerbread scones recipe is not only perfect for fall and winter but also versatile enough for any occasion. Customize with your favorite add-ins or serve them with various toppings. These scones make a great breakfast treat or afternoon snack—try making them today!