How to Make Starbucks Pumpkin Scones Copycat

If you’ve ever craved the rich, spiced goodness of fall in a flaky, buttery pastry, you’re going to love this Starbucks Pumpkin Scones Copycat recipe. This easy-to-follow guide teaches you how to make those moist, tender scones bursting with pumpkin flavor right in your own kitchen. Perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon treats, this recipe brings all the warmth and aroma of pumpkin spice in each bite, mirroring the popular Starbucks favorite you know and adore. Ready to impress your taste buds and become your own barista? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: Captures the same rich pumpkin and warm spices that make Starbucks scones a seasonal must-have.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses staple pantry items and real pumpkin for a fresh, homemade taste without fuss.
• Flaky Texture: Maintains that perfect tender crumb with a lightly crisp exterior, just like the bakery version.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak with your favorite nuts, glazes, or dairy options for personalized comfort.
• Perfect for Fall: Brings cozy vibes to any breakfast table or snack time, celebrating the flavors of the season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple ingredients will set you up for success. Each adds a vital note—pumpkin’s moisture and sweetness, spices’ warmth, and the right fats for a tender crumb all come together beautifully.

• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the scone dough, essential for that classic texture.
• Pumpkin Puree: Adds natural moisture and the signature pumpkin flavor that defines this scone.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Provide lift to ensure your scones are light, not dense.
• Brown Sugar: Gives sweetness with a subtle molasses depth perfect for autumn treats.
• Ground Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg: Classic fall spices that layer irresistible warmth into every bite.
• Cold Butter: Critical for flakiness; cutting it into the dough creates little pockets of buttery goodness.
• Heavy Cream or Buttermilk: Moisturizes the dough and enriches flavor for tenderness.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle aromatic sweetness enhancing all flavors.
• Vanilla or Sugar Glaze Ingredients: For that iconic sweet finish Starbucks scones are famous for.

Variations for Starbucks Pumpkin Scones Copycat

Feel free to get creative with this recipe. Whether you want to cater to dietary needs or just boost flavor, adapting this scone recipe is a piece of cake—or better yet, a delightfully flavored scone!

• Nutty Add-Ins: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch and a toasty contrast to the soft crumb.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking scones.
• Dairy-Free Options: Use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk or oat milk to keep it vegan-friendly.
• Maple Glaze: Swap the vanilla glaze for maple syrup mixed with powdered sugar for a richer morning treat.
• Chocolate Chips: Add semi-sweet or white chocolate chips for an indulgent twist.

How to Make Starbucks Pumpkin Scones Copycat

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, brown sugar, and the blend of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the dough.

Step 2: Cut in the Butter

Cube cold butter and quickly cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs. These small bits of butter will melt during baking to create a flaky texture.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is smooth and well blended to add moisture and flavor to your scones.

Step 4: Bring the Dough Together

Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, gently stirring with a spatula just until combined. Don’t overmix—stop as soon as the dough forms a shaggy consistency to maintain tenderness.

Step 5: Shape and Cut the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a circle about 8 inches wide and 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into 8 even triangular pieces.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Transfer the scones to a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown with a slightly crisp edge.

Step 7: Glaze the Scones

Your final touch is a simple vanilla glaze made from powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk or cream. Drizzle it generously over warm scones for that sweet Starbucks-like finish.

Pro Tips for Making Starbucks Pumpkin Scones Copycat

• Keep Ingredients Cold: Using cold butter and chilling your dough if needed helps create flaky layers.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Stir just until wet and dry ingredients combine to avoid tough scones.
• Check Your Oven Temperature: A hot oven is key for rapid rise and proper browning; use an oven thermometer if unsure.
• Use Real Pumpkin: Pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) gives the best natural flavor.
• Glaze While Warm: The glaze adheres better and slightly melts into the scone for a perfect finish.

How to Serve Starbucks Pumpkin Scones Copycat

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra cinnamon or finely chopped toasted nuts on the glaze for a decorative and flavorful touch that makes your scones pop visually and tastefully.

Side Dishes

Pair your pumpkin scones with a warm cup of coffee or chai latte to amplify the cozy fall vibe. Fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream can also balance sweetness and add freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the scones stacked on a decorative plate with mini pumpkins and autumn leaves for a stunning seasonal spread that’s perfect for gatherings or a special breakfast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week to keep them fresh and moist.

Freezing

Wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

Warm scones gently in a 300°F oven for about 5-7 minutes or microwave them for 15-20 seconds to refresh their soft, flaky texture.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly as long as it is 100% pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.

What’s the best way to store leftover scones?

Keep scones in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days, or refrigerate them to extend freshness for up to a week.

Can I make these scones vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use plant-based milk instead of heavy cream for delicious vegan pumpkin scones.

How do I make my scones more flaky?

Be sure to use cold butter and avoid overmixing the dough. The small pieces of butter create steam in the oven, which results in a flakier texture.

Is it possible to bake pumpkin scones without a mixer?

Yes, this recipe is simple enough to mix by hand. Use a fork or spatula to combine ingredients and a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have this easy, flavorful Starbucks Pumpkin Scones Copycat recipe, there’s no need to wait for fall mornings or coffee runs to indulge. This recipe is your ticket to enjoying a bubbly mix of spices, pumpkin, and buttery goodness anytime you want. So roll up your sleeves, bake a batch, and share these cozy treats with your favorite people – it’s like bringing a little Starbucks magic right into your home kitchen!

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