Gingerbread Scones Recipe

This Gingerbread Scones Recipe is the perfect treat for cooler weather. Enjoy these scones with a warm cup of coffee or tea, making them an ideal choice for breakfast, brunch, or even a delightful snack. With their cozy spices and rich flavors, they bring the essence of fall and winter right to your kitchen. Whip up a batch to impress your family or guests during the holiday season!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This gingerbread scones recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or dessert.
• Deliciously Spiced: The blend of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves provides a warm flavor that’s comforting.
• Customizable Icing: Add a sweet icing on top for an extra treat.
• Freezable: These scones can be made ahead and frozen for a quick bake anytime.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this gingerbread scones recipe, ensure you have the right tools ready. This will make your baking experience smoother and more 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 sturdy bowl helps combine all ingredients efficiently.
• Pastry cutter or fork: Essential for cutting in butter to achieve the perfect crumbly texture.
• Cookie sheet: Ensures even baking and easy transfer of your scones in and out of the oven.

Ingredients

To create these delicious gingerbread scones, gather 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, 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 (220 degrees C).

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Cut in Butter

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

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

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

Stir until everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Form Dough

Bring the dough together using your hands:
– Flatten it onto a cookie sheet to about 3/4 inch thick.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Brush the top with:
– 1 teaspoon milk

Sprinkle with:
– 1 teaspoon granulated sugar

This adds a crunchy topping.

Step 7: Cut and Bake

Cut the dough into 8 wedges. Bake in preheated oven for:
– 15-20 minutes, until risen and golden brown.

Step 8: Optional Icing Preparation

In a small bowl:
– Whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 9: Ice the Scones

Spread icing quickly over warm scones with a spoon or knife before it sets.

Now it’s time to enjoy your homemade gingerbread scones! They are best served fresh out of the oven with your favorite hot beverage.

How to Serve Gingerbread Scones Recipe

Gingerbread scones are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. They are perfect for any occasion, especially during the cooler months. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair your gingerbread scones with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage complements the spices in the scones perfectly.

Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside slices of fresh fruit like apples or pears. The natural sweetness and tartness of the fruit balance the rich flavors of the scone.

Cream Cheese Spread

• A spread of cream cheese adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the gingerbread spices.

Whipped Cream

• Top your scone with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. It’s especially nice if you enjoy your scones as dessert!

Maple Syrup Drizzle

• Drizzling maple syrup over warm gingerbread scones adds an extra layer of sweetness and enhances their flavor.

Icing Decoration

• Use icing made from powdered sugar and milk to add a decorative touch and extra sweetness to your scones.

How to Perfect Gingerbread Scones Recipe

To achieve the best results with your gingerbread scones, follow these essential tips for perfection.

• Chill Your Butter: Cold butter helps create flaky layers in your scones. Make sure it’s chilled before mixing it into the flour.

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

• Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your ground spices are fresh for maximum flavor. Stale spices can dull the taste of your gingerbread scones.

• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens vary. Pull them out when they’re golden brown for optimal texture.

• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for added flavor and texture variations.

• Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve your gingerbread scones warm from the oven, allowing all those delicious aromas to shine.

Best Side Dishes for Gingerbread Scones Recipe

Gingerbread scones pair well with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider serving alongside them.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and a sweet contrast to the spiced scone.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a hearty side that adds creaminess and crunch.
3. Oven-Baked Apples: Sweeten sliced apples with cinnamon and bake them for a warm, comforting side dish.
4. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese to balance the sweetness of the scone.
5. Vegetable Soup: A warm vegetable soup makes for a cozy pairing, especially on chilly days.
6. Chai Tea Latte: This spiced drink is perfect to accompany gingerbread flavors and adds warmth and comfort.
7. Honey Butter: A spread made from honey mixed with softened butter offers a sweet topping option that complements well.
8. Maple Oatmeal: Serve a warm bowl of oatmeal drizzled with maple syrup as a hearty breakfast option alongside your scone.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making gingerbread scones can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using warm butter – Warm butter can lead to a greasy texture in your scones. Always ensure your butter is cold before mixing it into the flour.
• Overmixing the dough – Overworking the dough can result in tough scones. Mix just until combined for light and fluffy results.
• Skipping the milk wash – Not brushing the top with milk means missing out on that beautiful golden crust. Always brush it on before baking.
• Incorrect oven temperature – Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven baking. Make sure to preheat your oven properly to 425°F (220°C).
• Not checking for doneness – Scones should be golden brown when done. Always check them a few minutes before the timer goes off to avoid overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover gingerbread scones in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Gingerbread Scones Recipe

• Freeze unglazed scones in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Gingerbread Scones Recipe

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat each scone for about 15-20 seconds on high, but be careful as they can become chewy if overheated.
• Stovetop – Place a scone in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the gingerbread scones recipe:

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.

How do I make these dairy-free?

Replace the milk with almond milk or coconut milk and use vegan butter instead of regular butter.

What can I serve with gingerbread scones?

These scones pair well with cream cheese, fruit preserves, or even a drizzle of honey!

How do I store leftover gingerbread scones?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the dough before baking for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This gingerbread scones recipe is not only delightful but also versatile enough to enjoy as breakfast or a cozy snack. Feel free to customize it by adding spices or mix-ins like dried fruits or nuts. Try making these soon and enjoy their warm, spiced goodness!