Gingerbread Scones Recipe

This Gingerbread Scones Recipe is a delightful treat that warms up your chilly days. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, these scones bring the festive flavors of gingerbread to your table. Fluffy, spiced, and easy to make, they are a must-try during the cooler months when comfort food calls.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have fresh scones ready to enjoy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Ideal for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert – they fit any occasion.
• Deliciously Spiced: Infused with warm spices like ginger and cinnamon, these scones are bursting with flavor.
• Customizable Ingredients: Use your preferred milk or sugar alternatives for a personalized touch.
• Easy Icing Addition: Elevate your gingerbread scones with a simple icing for an extra sweet kick.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best gingerbread scones, having the right tools on hand is essential. A few basic kitchen items will help streamline the process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows ample space for combining dry ingredients evenly.
• Pastry cutter or fork: Essential for blending butter into the flour without melting it.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy sheet ensures even baking and prevents warping in high heat.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing icing ingredients smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

For this Gingerbread Scones Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

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, etc.
• 1 tsp granulated sugar, for sprinkling on top

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.
• 1 tsp milk, for top

Optional Icing Ingredients

• 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) to ensure it’s hot enough when you bake.

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. Stir well.

Step 3: Cut in Butter

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

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in:
1. ½ cup of milk and
2. ¼ cup of molasses into the dry mix.
3. Stir until just combined; don’t overmix.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

On a prepared baking sheet:
1. Bring the dough together with your hands and flatten it into a circle about ¾ inch thick.

Step 6: Brush and Sprinkle

Brush the top with:
1. 1 teaspoon of milk,
2. Then sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of sugar for a crunchy topping.

Step 7: Cut into Wedges

Using a knife:
1. Cut the dough into 8 wedges.

Step 8: Bake

Place in preheated oven:
1. Bake for 15-20 minutes until risen and golden brown.

Step 9: Optional Icing

While cooling:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter (or vegan), maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Spread quickly over warm scones; it sets fast!

Enjoy these delicious gingerbread scones with your favorite hot beverage!

How to Serve Gingerbread Scones Recipe

Gingerbread scones are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a brunch or just enjoying a cozy afternoon break, these scones offer versatility in serving options.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee: Pair your gingerbread scone with a steaming cup of coffee for a comforting experience. The rich flavors complement each other beautifully.
• Tea: Enjoy with a warm cup of chai or herbal tea for a soothing combination that enhances the spices in the scone.
• Hot Chocolate: For a sweet indulgence, serve with hot chocolate, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for chilly days.

As Part of Breakfast

• Fruit Salad: Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness of the scone with vibrant, refreshing flavors.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer pieces of gingerbread scones with yogurt and berries to create a delicious parfait that adds texture and creaminess.
• Scrambled Eggs: Complement them with fluffy scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast that combines sweet and savory elements.

For Dessert

• Whipped Cream: Top your scone with whipped cream for an easy dessert option that feels indulgent yet simple.
• Ice Cream: Warm gingerbread scones served à la mode with vanilla ice cream will impress your guests and add a touch of elegance.

How to Perfect Gingerbread Scones Recipe

To ensure your gingerbread scones turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Bold Use of Spices: Don’t be shy with spices such as ginger and cinnamon; they are essential for achieving the signature gingerbread flavor.
• Cold Ingredients: Use cold butter and milk to create flaky layers. This helps achieve the desired texture in your scones.
• Do Not Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough scones.
• Chill Before Baking: If time allows, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking for an even better rise.
• Brush with Milk: Brushing the top with milk before baking gives the scones a beautiful golden color and crunchy topping.
• Adjust for Sweetness: Taste your batter before baking; adjust sugar levels if you prefer sweeter or less sweet scones.

Best Side Dishes for Gingerbread Scones Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your gingerbread scones can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the scone.
2. Cottage Cheese Bowl: Serve cottage cheese topped with honey and nuts for a protein-rich side that complements the sweetness.
3. Savory Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy brie to contrast the flavor profile of gingerbread.
4. Quiche Slice: A slice of quiche provides richness and pairs well with the spices in gingerbread.
5. Oatmeal Bowl: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with fruits or nuts offers wholesome comfort alongside these delightful scones.
6. Vegetable Frittata: A vegetable frittata adds nutrition and texture, making it an excellent match for breakfast gatherings.
7. Granola Parfait: Layer granola, yogurt, and berries as a crunchy side dish that complements the soft texture of the scone.
8. Herbal Tea Infusion: Offer herbal teas infused with spices like cinnamon or mint to refresh and cleanse the palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making gingerbread scones can be simple, but a few common missteps can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using warm butter – Always use cold butter for the best texture. Warm butter can make the scones dense instead of light and fluffy.
• Overworking the dough – Gently bring the dough together; overworking it can lead to tough scones. Aim for just enough mixing to combine the ingredients.
• Skipping the milk wash – Brushing with milk before baking adds a nice golden color and crunch. Don’t skip this step for beautiful scones!
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Baking is precise; ensure you measure your flour and other ingredients correctly to achieve the right texture.
• Ignoring oven temperature – Make sure your oven is preheated properly. An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and the final rise of your scones.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Scones will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Gingerbread Scones Recipe

• Wrap each scone in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Scones can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Gingerbread Scones Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat one scone at a time on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this gingerbread scones recipe that might help you as you prepare these treats.

Can I make this Gingerbread Scones Recipe vegan?

Yes! You can substitute regular butter with vegan butter and use plant-based milk.

What can I serve with gingerbread scones?

Gingerbread scones pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, but you can also enjoy them with jam, whipped cream, or honey.

How long do gingerbread scones last?

They last up to three days in the refrigerator and up to three months if frozen properly.

Can I add other flavors to my gingerbread scones?

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

Final Thoughts

This gingerbread scones recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert during cooler months. With options for customization, such as adding spices or toppings, these scones are sure to please everyone. Try making them today and enjoy their delightful flavors!