There’s something undeniably comforting about the scent of freshly baked scones wafting through the kitchen. The warm embrace of cinnamon and the sweetness of sugar come together in a delightful dance that evokes cozy mornings and heartfelt conversations. I discovered this recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Scones during a quiet afternoon of experimenting, and I couldn’t resist sharing it with you!
Imagine hosting a brunch for friends, where these scones could steal the show, or simply enjoying them with your morning coffee. What sets these scones apart is not just their irresistible flavor but also their ease of preparation—perfect for both seasoned chefs and kitchen newcomers. In under 30 minutes, your home can be filled with the promise of indulgence, as you slice into these golden delights. Let’s dive into the recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing treat, sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face!
Why are Cinnamon Sugar Scones a must-try?
Warm, that irresistible aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to come closer. Simple, the straightforward steps make it easy for any home cook to achieve bakery-quality results. Delightful, the blend of cinnamon and sugar ensures a sweet treat for breakfast or brunch. Versatile, enjoy them plain, glazed, or with your favorite jam! These scones are perfect for cozy mornings, quick snacks, or even a delightful dessert. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe on hand for all your gatherings!
Cinnamon Sugar Scone Ingredients
• Bring the warmth of home with these Cinnamon Sugar Scones!
For the Scone Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – all-purpose gives the ideal texture for fluffy scones.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar – for just the right hint of sweetness.
- 1 Tbsp. baking powder – helps the scones rise beautifully in the oven.
- 1 tsp. ground cinnamon – the star ingredient that infuses every bite with warmth.
- 1 tsp. kosher salt – balances out the sweetness for a well-rounded flavor.
- 8 Tbsp. cold, unsalted butter – keep it cold for a flaky texture; unsalted allows you to control the salt level.
- 2/3 cup cold heavy cream – creates a rich, moist dough; you can substitute with milk for a lighter option.
- 1 tsp. vanilla – adds depth and enhances the sweetness.
For the Topping
- 1 Tbsp. heavy cream – use this to brush on top for a golden finish.
- 1 Tbsp. sugar – adds a delightful crunch when baked.
- 1/4 tsp. cinnamon – sprinkle this for additional flavor on top of the scones.
For the Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar – gives a sweet, creamy finish that elevates the scones.
- 1-2 Tbsp. heavy cream – adjust for the desired consistency of your glaze.
- 1/2 tsp. vanilla – enhance the sweetness and flavor of the glaze.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Scones
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Sift and Combine: Sift the flour into a medium-sized mixing bowl, then whisk in the granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt. This creates a fluffy base for your scones.
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Cut in the Butter: Cut the cold, unsalted butter into the flour blend using a pastry blender or your fingertips until it resembles a coarse meal. This step is essential for achieving that tender, flaky texture.
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Optional Addition: If you like, stir in 1/2 cup of cinnamon chips for an extra burst of flavor that will make these scones even more delightful.
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Mix the Wet Ingredients: Pour the cold heavy cream and vanilla into the dry mixture, gently stirring until a soft, shaggy dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if it’s a little crumbly!
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Knead and Shape: Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead and fold it until it’s combined and shaped into a circle, about 3/4 inch thick. This will help create the perfect rise during baking.
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Cut the Scones: Cut the dough into 8 wedges (or 6 for larger scones) using a sharp knife or dough cutter. This is where you transform the dough into those irresistible shapes.
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Chill in the Freezer: Place the cut scones on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 15-20 minutes. This chilling time helps the scones to bake up lighter and fluffier.
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F while the scones chill. This ensures they bake evenly and develop a lovely golden crust.
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Brush and Sprinkle: Brush the chilled scones with heavy cream, then sprinkle the cinnamon and sugar mixture over the top. This adds a beautiful finish and crunchy texture.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the tops are light golden brown and puffed. Keep an eye on them; your kitchen will smell heavenly as they bake!
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Whisk the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla until smooth. This glaze will add a delightful sweetness to your scones.
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Drizzle and Enjoy: Drizzle or spread the glaze over the warm scones and sprinkle with any remaining cinnamon/sugar mixture. This final touch makes them extra special!
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Cool and Serve: Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes, then serve warm with your favorite jam or just on their own.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of clotted cream for an indulgent treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Scones
- Use Cold Butter: Keep the butter cold to ensure a flaky texture. Avoid melting it, as warmth will lead to dense scones.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined; overmixing can create tough scones. Handle it gently for that perfect, soft bite.
- Chill the Dough: Freezing the cut scones before baking helps them rise beautifully and prevents spreading. Don’t skip this step!
- Perfect Glaze Consistency: Adjust the heavy cream in the glaze to achieve your desired thickness. A thicker glaze will stay on top for an inviting appearance.
- Flavor Boost: Consider adding cinnamon chips for enhanced flavor. They melt during baking and create little bursts of sweetness in your Cinnamon Sugar Scones.
Cinnamon Sugar Scones Variations
Feel free to take these scones to a whole new level of deliciousness with these fun twists and substitutions!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a scrumptious variation that everyone can enjoy. Don’t worry; the scones will still be tender!
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Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream and butter with coconut cream and coconut oil, enjoying a rich, vegan-friendly version that is equally delightful.
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Fruity Add-ins: Toss in 1/2 cup of dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a burst of sweetness that complements the cinnamon beautifully. These tiny additions make each bite even more exciting!
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Spiced Up: Add 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg or a pinch of cardamom to the dough for a warm, aromatic kick that enhances those cinnamon flavors.
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Chocolate Lover’s: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the dough instead of cinnamon chips for a sweet twist that chocolate lovers will appreciate!
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Maple Glaze: Swap the vanilla in your glaze for pure maple extract to create a scrumptious maple-flavored glaze that adds a fall-inspired touch.
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Savory Touch: Include a sprinkle of grated cheese like cheddar in the dough, and pair it with a dash of cayenne pepper to make a savory version that’s perfect with for brunch or breakfast!
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Bourbon Glaze: For a fun adult twist, add a tablespoon of bourbon to your glaze for a rich flavor boost that complements the sweet aspects of the scones beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Scones are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the scone dough and cut it into wedges up to 24 hours in advance. Simply place the cut scones on a parchment-lined baking sheet, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This not only helps develop the flavors but ensures your scones bake up just as fluffy and delicious. When you’re ready to enjoy them, take them out, brush with heavy cream, sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar, and bake directly from the fridge—there’s no need to thaw. Enjoy warm, freshly baked scones without the morning rush!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Scones?
Pair these delightful scones with complementary flavors and textures that enhance their sweet and warm essence.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries provide a tart contrast that brightens every bite.
- Clotted Cream: Rich and luxurious, this cream adds a sumptuous touch that balances the sweetness of the scones.
- Honey Butter: Whipped honey butter contributes a creamy, sweet element that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon flavor.
- Coffee: A hot cup of coffee enhances the warm, comforting vibes; the bitterness works well against the sugary scones.
- Herbal Tea: A fragrant herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, creates a calming experience, perfect for leisurely mornings.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layering scones with yogurt and fruit makes for a delightful brunch option, adding creaminess and freshness.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzling with warm maple syrup introduces a delightful sweetness that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For a sweet twist, try drizzling melted chocolate on top of your scones for a decadent touch.
Treat yourself and your loved ones by pairing these Cinnamon Sugar Scones with any of these delightful additions!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Scones
Room Temperature: Store baked scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and ready for delicious snacking!
Fridge: If you want to keep them fresh longer, place the scones in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they are sealed properly to avoid drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked scones for up to 3 months. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: Reheat baked scones in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy your Cinnamon Sugar Scones any time!
Cinnamon Sugar Scones Recipe FAQs
What kind of flour should I use for Cinnamon Sugar Scones?
Absolutely! All-purpose flour is the best choice for these scones as it provides the perfect texture, balancing fluffiness and density. If you prefer to experiment, you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, though the texture might differ slightly.
How should I store my Cinnamon Sugar Scones?
I recommend storing baked scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and perfect for enjoying with your morning coffee. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week—just ensure they’re tightly sealed to prevent dryness.
Can I freeze my scones, and how?
Yes! For freezing, I suggest placing the unbaked scones onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze for about 30 minutes until firm, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, place them directly in the oven from the freezer, adding an extra couple of minutes to the baking time—easy peasy!
What do I do if my scones turn out hard?
No worries! If your scones come out a bit hard, they may have been overmixed or baked too long. To avoid this in future batches, gently mix the dough until just combined and keep a close eye on the baking time, pulling them out as soon as they’re golden. If you prefer a softer scone, you can also increase the quantity of cream slightly.
Are there any dietary considerations for Cinnamon Sugar Scones?
Definitely! If you have allergies, be cautious with dairy and gluten. You can substitute dairy milk with almond milk or oat milk. For gluten-free scones, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, and consider adding a bit of xanthan gum to help with texture. These adjustments let everyone join in on the deliciousness!
Can I customize the flavors of my Cinnamon Sugar Scones?
Very! There’s so much you can do to switch things up. Adding half a cup of cinnamon chips, dried fruits, or even citrus zest can give a unique twist to the classic flavor. You could also experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom to create a signature scone that’s all your own!
Irresistible Cinnamon Sugar Scones Perfect for Cozy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sift the flour into a medium-sized mixing bowl, then whisk in the granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt.
- Cut the cold, unsalted butter into the flour blend until it resembles a coarse meal.
- If you like, stir in 1/2 cup of cinnamon chips for an extra burst of flavor.
- Pour the cold heavy cream and vanilla into the dry mixture, gently stirring until a soft, shaggy dough forms.
- Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead and fold it until combined and shaped into a circle, about 3/4 inch thick.
- Cut the dough into 8 wedges (or 6 for larger scones) using a sharp knife.
- Place the cut scones on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 15-20 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F while the scones chill.
- Brush the chilled scones with heavy cream, then sprinkle the cinnamon and sugar mixture over the top.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the tops are light golden brown and puffed.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle or spread the glaze over the warm scones and sprinkle with any remaining cinnamon/sugar mixture.
- Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes, then serve warm.