Cinnamon Apple Scones with Vanilla Glaze

Introduction

There’s something magical about the combination of warm spices, tender pastry, and a sweet drizzle. Cinnamon Apple Scones with Vanilla Glaze are the ultimate fall-inspired treat. Each bite is soft and flaky, infused with cinnamon, and studded with juicy apple pieces. Topped with a delicate vanilla glaze, these scones are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack.

I love this recipe

I love this recipe because it balances sweetness and spice perfectly, with apples adding a natural juiciness that makes every bite melt in your mouth. The vanilla glaze adds a subtle, aromatic sweetness without overpowering the scones. The recipe is straightforward, and the results feel bakery-quality, making it a must-try for anyone who loves warm, comforting baked goods.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

1. Perfect Texture: Flaky, tender scones with a slightly crisp top.
2. Balanced Sweetness: Natural sweetness from apples, complemented by a light vanilla glaze.
3. Aromatic: Cinnamon and vanilla create a cozy, inviting aroma.
4. Versatile: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, tea time, or as a sweet treat anytime.
5. Impressively Easy: Simple steps, yet it delivers a bakery-style experience at home.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 8 scones
• Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per scone
• Cuisine: American / British-inspired baked goods
• Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Snack, Dessert

Ingredients

For the Scones:

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 cup (150 g) peeled and diced apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
• 2/3 cup (160 ml) heavy cream or whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Vanilla Glaze:

• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp milk or cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients in a bowl.
3. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in diced apples.
5. Whisk together cream, egg, and vanilla.
6. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
7. Shape into a circle, cut into wedges, and place on the baking sheet.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
9. Mix glaze ingredients and drizzle over warm scones.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

• In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Step 2: Cut in Butter

• Add cold cubed butter to the dry mixture.
• Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 3: Add Apples

• Gently fold in diced apples, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream (or milk), egg, and vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
• Stir gently until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep scones tender.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

• Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
• Pat into a 7-8 inch circle, about 1-inch thick.
• Cut into 8 wedges and place on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake

• Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

• Mix powdered sugar, vanilla, and 2-3 tbsp milk/cream until smooth.
• Drizzle over warm scones once they are slightly cooled.

How to Serve

• Serve warm with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.
• For a decadent touch, spread a little butter on each scone before adding the glaze.

Additional Recipe Tips

Keep Butter Cold: Ensures flakier scones.

1. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing leads to dense scones.
2. Apples: Choose a firm apple variety for better texture.
3. Glaze: Adjust consistency by adding more or less milk.

Variations

• Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
• Dried Fruit: Substitute apples with raisins or cranberries.
• Spice Twist: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger for extra warmth.
• Caramel Drizzle: Replace vanilla glaze with caramel sauce for indulgence.

Freezing and Storage

• To Store: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Store up to 5 days.
• To Freeze: Freeze unglazed scones in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm frozen scones in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes. Glaze after reheating.

Special Equipment Needed

• Pastry cutter or fork
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife for cutting wedges

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make these scones vegan?
A: Yes, substitute butter with a plant-based butter and use non-dairy milk or cream.

Q: Can I use frozen apples?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding to the dough.

Q: Can I make mini scones instead of wedges?
A: Absolutely! Bake for 12-15 minutes instead of 20-25.

Q: Can these scones be made ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough and freeze it raw. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to baking time.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Apple Scones with Vanilla Glaze are a warm, comforting, and irresistibly flavorful treat. Perfect for cozy mornings, brunches, or any time you want a sweet indulgence, this recipe delivers bakery-quality scones right at home. With their tender, flaky texture, juicy apples, and aromatic cinnamon, these scones are a must-try for anyone who loves a mix of spice, sweetness, and homemade comfort.