If you adore the cozy, comforting flavors of fall wrapped up in a tender, flaky pastry, then you are absolutely going to fall head over heels for this Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe. Imagine the sweet warmth of cinnamon mingling with juicy diced apples and plump raisins, all nestled inside golden, buttery scones that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. These scones strike just the right balance between soft and crumbly, offering a delightful texture that will have you reaching for seconds—even thirds. Whether you’re savoring them fresh out of the oven or sharing them with loved ones over tea, this recipe brings a slice of homemade happiness to your table in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple pantry staples come together beautifully in this Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe. Each ingredient plays an important role in building flavor, texture, and that irresistible golden color you expect from perfectly baked scones.
- Apples (diced): Fresh, crisp apples add juicy sweetness and a tender bite.
- All-purpose flour: The base that gives the scones their structure and flaky texture.
- Sugar: Just enough to enhance sweetness and help with browning.
- Baking powder: Essential for a light, airy rise without heaviness.
- Baking soda: Helps the scones achieve perfect lift, especially paired with buttermilk or milk.
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses those warm, spicy notes throughout each scone.
- Nutmeg: Adds a subtle, earthy undertone that complements cinnamon beautifully.
- Butter (cold, cubed): Creates flakiness and richness; using it cold is key.
- Eggs: Bind the dough gently, adding moisture and tenderness.
- Milk or buttermilk: Keeps the dough moist while activating leavening agents for rise.
- Raisins: Little bursts of natural sweetness scattered throughout.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by warming up your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your scones bake evenly and don’t stick, giving you that perfect golden crust every time.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Whisk together all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large bowl. This blend of dry ingredients sets the flavor foundation, balancing sweetness and spice for those signature notes of the recipe.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Cut your cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial because those little pockets of butter create the flaky layers that scones are famous for—there’s nothing quite like that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 4: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with your choice of milk or buttermilk until smooth and combined. These liquids add moisture, and buttermilk also helps with a tender crumb thanks to its acidity.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, taking care to avoid overmixing. The goal is to bring everything together without making the dough tough, so stop mixing as soon as it comes together.
Step 6: Fold in Apples and Raisins
Fold in the diced apples and raisins, distributing them evenly throughout the dough. These juicy bites not only add incredible flavor but also a nice contrast in texture that makes each scone exciting.
Step 7: Shape the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a 1-inch thick disk. Then cut into wedges or rounds—choose whatever shape feels right for you! This rustic approach keeps the scones charming and homemade.
Step 8: Bake the Scones
Place your scones onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until they become a beautiful golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point will be irresistible.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let the scones cool slightly on a wire rack before digging in. They taste best warm, but the cooling helps them set perfectly for serving.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of simple glaze can add an elegant touch that enhances the scones’ sweet-spicy flavor. You can even sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for a pop of aroma and color.
Side Dishes
Pair these scones with a dollop of clotted cream or vanilla butter for an indulgent treat. Freshly brewed tea or a cup of spiced chai makes for the perfect cozy beverage companion, turning your snack into a delightful experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch spread, arrange scones on a wooden board mixed with fresh fruit and small bowls of jam or honey. Alternatively, split them open and add a slather of cream cheese or apple butter for a fun twist everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover scones fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain their soft interior and flaky exterior without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy your Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe later, freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer bag for up to three months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat scones gently in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 5 to 8 minutes until warm and slightly crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them too soft or chewy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fruit instead of apples?
Absolutely! Pears or dried cranberries make delicious alternatives that also pair well with cinnamon and raisins. Just adjust the moisture content slightly depending on the fruit’s juiciness.
What’s the best way to keep scones flaky?
Using cold butter and not overmixing the dough are the secrets. The cold butter creates steam while baking, which forms flaky layers, and overworking the dough can develop gluten, making them tougher.
Can I make these scones dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free vegan option like coconut oil or plant-based butter, and use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk or buttermilk. The texture might vary slightly but they will still be delicious.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is optional. Leaving the peel on adds extra texture and nutrition, but if you prefer a smoother bite, you can peel them first. Just make sure to dice evenly for consistent baking.
How do I store leftover scones to keep them fresh?
Storing scones in an airtight container at room temperature works well for short-term storage. For longer storage, freezing is best to maintain freshness, as explained earlier.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about baking a batch of scones that fill your kitchen with warmth and invite everyone to gather ’round. This Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe is a hearty, sweet treat that never fails to brighten mornings and bring smiles. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and enjoy the cozy comfort it brings—trust me, once you try it, it will become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.
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Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Baked Goods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones are a perfect blend of tender, flaky pastry enriched with warm cinnamon, sweet raisins, and juicy diced apples. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, these scones offer a delightful mix of sweet and spice with a buttery finish that will satisfy your craving for homemade baked goods.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup cold butter, cubed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup diced apples (peeled or unpeeled as preferred)
- 1/2 cup raisins
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. This combines all the leavening agents and spices evenly.
- Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Small pea-sized butter pieces help create a flaky texture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs together with the milk or buttermilk. This mixture will moisten the dough and provide richness.
- Mix Wet and Dry: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Combine carefully with a spatula or wooden spoon until just incorporated; do not overmix to keep the scones tender.
- Fold in Add-ins: Gently fold the diced apples and raisins into the dough, distributing them evenly without crushing the fruit.
- Shape Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a disk about 1-inch thick. Use a sharp knife or biscuit cutter to cut into wedges or rounds as preferred.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the shaped dough pieces onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the scones from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm with butter or jam.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cardamom to the wet ingredients.
- If buttermilk is not available, use milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.
- Ensure the butter is very cold before cutting it into the dry ingredients to achieve flaky layers.
- Do not overmix the dough; overworking will result in tough scones.
- Scones can be frozen before baking; thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
