Chef John’s Pumpkin Scones: A Spiced Autumn Treat
Pumpkin scones, a delightful symphony of autumnal spices and comforting textures, are the perfect way to celebrate the season. And when it comes to reliable and flavorful recipes, Chef John of Food Wishes never disappoints. This guide will walk you through creating Chef John’s pumpkin scones, providing detailed instructions, tips, and variations to ensure baking success. Prepare to be transported to a world of warm, pumpkin-spiced goodness with every bite!
Why Chef John’s Pumpkin Scones?
Chef John’s recipes are renowned for their straightforwardness, clarity, and, most importantly, deliciousness. His pumpkin scone recipe is no exception. It strikes the perfect balance between moistness and crumbly texture, delivering a scone that’s both satisfying and flavorful. What sets it apart is Chef John’s focus on simple techniques that yield professional-quality results, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before embarking on this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:
* **All-Purpose Flour:** The base of the scone, providing structure and texture.
* **Granulated Sugar:** Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
* **Baking Powder:** The leavening agent, responsible for the scone’s rise.
* **Baking Soda:** Contributes to the scone’s rise and provides a slightly tangy flavor.
* **Salt:** Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
* **Pumpkin Pie Spice:** A blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, creating the signature pumpkin spice flavor.
* **Unsalted Butter:** Cold and cubed, the butter creates flaky layers in the scones.
* **Canned Pumpkin Puree:** Provides moisture, flavor, and that beautiful orange hue. *Make sure it’s pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.*
* **Heavy Cream:** Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
* **Egg:** Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the scone’s structure.
* **Vanilla Extract:** Enhances the overall flavor profile.
* **Optional Glaze:** Powdered sugar, milk (or heavy cream), and vanilla extract for a sweet finish.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
* **Flour:** While all-purpose flour is standard, you can substitute some of it (about 1/4 cup) with whole wheat pastry flour for a slightly nutty flavor and added fiber. Don’t use all whole wheat flour as it will make the scones too dense.
* **Sugar:** You can experiment with brown sugar for a slightly molasses-like flavor. Reduce the amount of granulated sugar slightly to compensate for the added moisture in brown sugar.
* **Pumpkin Pie Spice:** If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can create your own blend by combining cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves to your taste.
* **Butter:** It is crucial that the butter is very cold! If the butter softens too much during the mixing process, the scones will not be as flaky.
* **Canned Pumpkin Puree:** Do not substitute pumpkin pie filling! The filling has added spices and sugar, which will alter the recipe significantly.
* **Heavy Cream:** Half-and-half can be used as a substitute, but the scones will be slightly less rich. You can also use milk in a pinch, but the texture will be noticeably different.
* **Egg:** A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes) can be used as a vegan substitute, but the texture may be slightly different.
Equipment You’ll Need
* **Large Mixing Bowl:** For combining the dry ingredients.
* **Small Mixing Bowl:** For combining the wet ingredients.
* **Pastry Blender or Food Processor:** For cutting the butter into the flour.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurement.
* **Baking Sheet:** For baking the scones.
* **Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat:** To prevent the scones from sticking to the baking sheet.
* **Wire Rack:** For cooling the scones.
* **Whisk:** For mixing dry ingredients.
* **Fork:** For mixing wet ingredients.
* **Optional:** Biscuit cutter or knife for shaping scones.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Chef John’s Pumpkin Scones
Now, let’s dive into the baking process. Follow these detailed instructions to create perfect pumpkin scones:
**Step 1: Preheat and Prepare**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a rack in the center of the oven.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents the scones from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
**Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients**
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Make sure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed for consistent flavor and texture.
**Step 3: Cut in the Butter**
1. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients.
2. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. You should still see small pieces of butter throughout the mixture. This is crucial for creating flaky layers in the scones.
3. *Food Processor Method:* If using a food processor, pulse the dry ingredients and butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to over-process, as this will melt the butter and result in dense scones.
**Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients**
1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin puree, heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
**Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**
1. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients.
2. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently stir the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will develop the gluten in the flour and result in tough scones. The dough will be slightly sticky.
**Step 6: Shape the Scones**
1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Gently pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick.
3. Using a biscuit cutter (about 2-3 inches in diameter) or a sharp knife, cut out the scones. If using a knife, you can cut the circle into wedges.
4. Gently reshape any leftover dough and cut out more scones. Keep in mind that the scones made from the reshaped dough may be slightly less tender.
**Step 7: Bake the Scones**
1. Place the scones onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each scone.
2. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
**Step 8: Cool and Glaze (Optional)**
1. Remove the scones from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly.
2. While the scones are cooling, prepare the glaze (if using). In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk (or heavy cream), and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the amount of liquid to achieve your desired consistency.
3. Drizzle the glaze over the warm scones. Let the glaze set before serving.
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Scones
* **Keep the Butter Cold:** This is the most important tip for flaky scones. Use very cold butter and work quickly to prevent it from melting.
* **Don’t Overmix the Dough:** Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough scones. Mix until just combined.
* **Handle the Dough Gently:** Avoid overworking the dough when shaping the scones. This will also help to prevent tough scones.
* **Use a Biscuit Cutter or Sharp Knife:** A biscuit cutter will give you uniform scones, while a sharp knife will create clean cuts without tearing the dough.
* **Bake Until Golden Brown:** The scones should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
* **Cool Slightly Before Glazing:** Glazing warm scones allows the glaze to adhere better.
* **Enjoy Fresh:** Scones are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them slightly in the oven or microwave before serving.
Variations and Additions
* **Chocolate Chips:** Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
* **Nuts:** Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds, for added texture and flavor.
* **Dried Cranberries:** Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries for a tart and chewy element.
* **Maple Glaze:** Substitute maple syrup for some of the milk in the glaze for a maple-flavored glaze.
* **Orange Zest:** Add the zest of one orange to the dough for a bright citrusy flavor.
* **Spiced Sugar Topping:** Before baking, brush the scones with milk or cream and sprinkle with a mixture of sugar and pumpkin pie spice for a crunchy topping.
* **Cream Cheese Glaze:** Make a cream cheese glaze by whisking together cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
* **Savory Pumpkin Scones:** Reduce the sugar and add savory herbs like sage, thyme, or rosemary. You can also add cheese like cheddar or parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
Chef John’s pumpkin scones are delicious on their own, but they can also be served with:
* **Butter:** A classic pairing.
* **Jam or Preserves:** Complement the pumpkin spice flavor with cranberry or apple jam.
* **Cream Cheese:** A tangy and creamy addition.
* **Whipped Cream:** For a decadent treat.
* **Coffee or Tea:** The perfect accompaniment to a warm scone.
Storage Instructions
* **Room Temperature:** Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They may become slightly drier over time.
* **Freezer:** For longer storage, freeze the scones in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before reheating.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)**
*Note: Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the size of the scones.*
* Calories: 250-350 per scone
* Fat: 12-18g
* Saturated Fat: 7-10g
* Cholesterol: 50-70mg
* Sodium: 200-300mg
* Carbohydrates: 35-45g
* Fiber: 1-2g
* Sugar: 15-20g
* Protein: 4-6g
Conclusion
Chef John’s pumpkin scones are a delightful treat that captures the essence of autumn. With their warm spices, tender crumb, and optional sweet glaze, they are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. By following these detailed instructions and tips, you can easily create bakery-quality pumpkin scones in your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the comforting flavors of fall! Happy baking!