Gingerbread Scones Recipe

This gingerbread scones recipe is a delightful way to embrace the cozy flavors of fall and winter. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack with your favorite hot beverage, these scones offer a warm, spiced treat that will fill your home with an inviting aroma. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple preparation steps, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These scones come together in just 26 minutes, making them a perfect option for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
• Deliciously Spiced: The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves provides a warm flavor profile that’s perfect for the season.
• Customizable Toppings: Top with icing for added sweetness or enjoy them plain; the choice is yours!
• Perfectly Fluffy Texture: These scones bake up fluffy and golden brown, delighting every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this gingerbread scones recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine dry ingredients before adding wet ones.
• Pastry cutter: This tool helps incorporate butter into the flour evenly, creating the desired fluffy texture in your scones.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning of your scones.

Ingredients

This gingerbread scones recipe features a blend of simple ingredients that deliver delicious results.

Dry Ingredients

• 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.

Wet Ingredients

• 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.

Topping Ingredients

• 1 tsp milk, for top
• 1 tsp granulated sugar, for sprinkling on top

Icing Ingredients (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 bake evenly and rise well.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Incorporate Butter

Using a pastry cutter or fork:
1. Cut in the cold butter until it resembles pea-sized pieces mixed into the flour.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

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

Stir until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Bring the dough together with your hands:
– Flatten it onto a cookie sheet 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

This will create a lovely crunchy topping!

Step 7: Cut and Bake

Cut the dough into 8 wedges:
– Bake at 425 F for about 15-20 minutes until risen and golden brown.

Step 8: Optional Icing

If desired:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Spread over warm scones using the back of a spoon or knife.

Enjoy these gingerbread scones fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Gingerbread Scones Recipe

Gingerbread scones are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a cozy breakfast or a delightful afternoon treat, these scones can fit the occasion perfectly.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair your gingerbread scones with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a warm and comforting experience. The spices in the scone enhance the flavors of your beverage.

Topped with Icing

• Drizzle or spread the optional icing on top of your scones for an extra sweet touch. This adds a lovely contrast to the spiced flavor of the scones.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh fruit, such as sliced apples or pears. The natural sweetness and juiciness of the fruit complement the rich gingerbread flavor.

As a Dessert

• Enjoy gingerbread scones as a dessert option after dinner. Their unique flavor will surprise and delight your guests.

For Brunch Gatherings

• Include them in your brunch spread. They pair well with other brunch items, such as yogurt, granola, or even a fruit salad.

How to Perfect Gingerbread Scones Recipe

Perfecting your gingerbread scones is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Chill Your Butter: Use cold butter straight from the fridge. This helps achieve that flaky texture that makes scones so delightful.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough scones instead of light and airy ones.

• Use Fresh Spices: Opt for fresh ground spices if possible. They provide a more vibrant flavor that enhances the overall taste of your scones.

• Cut Evenly: When cutting into wedges, aim for even sizes. This ensures that all pieces bake uniformly, leading to consistent results.

• Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on baking time. Scones are done when they are golden brown and have risen nicely—avoid overbaking!

Best Side Dishes for Gingerbread Scones Recipe

To make your meal complete, consider serving side dishes that pair well with gingerbread scones. Below is a list of great options:

1. Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt and granola topped with fresh fruits create a refreshing contrast to the spiced flavors.

2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the richness of the scones.

3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide a savory element that pairs well with sweet scones.

4. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese for spreading on your gingerbread scones.

5. Nut Butter Spread: Almond or peanut butter offers a creamy texture and nutty flavor that complements the spices beautifully.

6. Honey Drizzle: A simple drizzle of honey enhances sweetness without overpowering the unique flavors in the scone.

7. Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup provides comfort and pairs nicely with the sweetness of gingerbread.

8. Herbal Tea Selection: Offer a variety of herbal teas; their subtle flavors go well with spiced baked goods like these scones.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making gingerbread scones can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your batch. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Skipping the cold butter: Not using cold butter can lead to flat scones. Make sure your butter is very cold and cut into small cubes before mixing.

• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing creates tough scones instead of light and fluffy ones. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect the rise and texture. Always preheat your oven accurately to 425 degrees F.

• Not measuring ingredients properly: Improper measurements can alter the scone’s texture and taste. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.

• Ignoring resting time: Allowing the dough to rest before baking helps with texture. Give it a few minutes after mixing before shaping.

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 in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a container.

Reheating Gingerbread Scones Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual scones on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this gingerbread scones recipe that may help you perfect your baking experience.

What is the best flour for Gingerbread Scones Recipe?

All-purpose flour works best for this gingerbread scones recipe as it provides a good balance of structure and tenderness.

Can I use plant-based milk in this Gingerbread Scones Recipe?

Yes! Any plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk will work perfectly in this gingerbread scones recipe.

How do I customize my Gingerbread Scones Recipe?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to enhance flavor. Adjust spices according to your taste too!

How long do Gingerbread Scones stay fresh?

Gingerbread scones stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or they can be frozen for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This gingerbread scones recipe is not only delightful but also versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack. Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts! Enjoy these warm with a cup of tea or coffee—perfect for chilly days!