There’s a certain charm that fills the kitchen when the aroma of cinnamon, maple, and toasted walnuts begins to waft through the air. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly morning, inviting everyone to gather around the table. I recently found myself craving a comforting yet simple treat to elevate my weekend brunch, and these Cinnamon Maple Walnut Scones quickly became my favorite go-to.
Not only do they bring together a delightful combination of flavors and textures, but they also require minimal effort—perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Imagine biting into a flaky scone, its golden exterior giving way to a tender, moist center, punctuated by the satisfying crunch of walnuts and the sweet dance of maple syrup. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or simply want to indulge yourself, this recipe will add a cozy touch to your brunch spread. Join me as we embark on a baking adventure that’s sure to delight your taste buds!
Why are Cinnamon Maple Walnut Scones a Must-Try?
Irresistible Aroma: The delightful scent of cinnamon and maple will fill your kitchen, making it a cozy haven.
Easy to Make: This recipe is approachable for bakers of all levels, needing only basic ingredients.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a special brunch or a casual snack, these scones impress every time.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to mix in other nuts or dried fruits to customize your scones.
Time-Saving Delight: In just about 35 minutes, you can whip up a batch that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of toasted walnuts, spices, and maple syrup creates a taste experience that’s simply divine.
Cinnamon Maple Walnut Scone Ingredients
For the Scones
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the scones; you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
- Baking Powder – This leavening agent helps the scones rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best outcome.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness that balances the flavors; brown sugar works well for a richer taste.
- Ground Cinnamon – An aromatic spice that enhances flavor; feel free to adjust the quantity for more or less warmth.
- Salt – Balances sweetness; kosher salt or sea salt can be used as alternatives.
- Unsalted Butter (Cold) – Contributes richness and flakiness; ensure it’s cold, as melted butter alters the texture.
- Walnuts (Lightly Toasted) – Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor; pecans or almonds can be substituted similarly.
- Eggs – Provides moisture and binds the dough; for a vegan option, use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
- Buttermilk – Adds tanginess while keeping the scones moist; substitute with regular milk mixed with vinegar or yogurt if needed.
- Maple Syrup – A natural sweetener that enhances the overall flavor; honey or agave syrup can work instead.
- Egg Wash – This gives the scones a shiny finish; milk serves as a great non-egg alternative.
- Powdered Sugar – For glazing the scones, adding a touch of sweetness; substitute with stevia or other powdered sweeteners if desired.
- Splash of Cream – Helps adjust the glaze consistency according to your preference.
How to Make Cinnamon Maple Walnut Scones
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures a great start for your scones, enabling a perfect golden crust.
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Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt in a mixing bowl. This creates a flavorful base for your delicious scones.
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Cut in the cold diced butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbles. This step is crucial for achieving that flaky texture we all love!
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Mix in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they’re well-distributed throughout the mixture. Their crunch will be a delightful surprise in every bite.
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Whisk the eggs, buttermilk, and maple syrup together in a separate bowl until combined. This mixture adds moisture and brings all the flavors together beautifully.
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Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. It’s okay if the dough looks scrappy; that’s a sign of a tender scone!
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Form the dough into a disk about 1-inch thick, then cut it into wedges. Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet, giving them a little space.
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Brush the tops of the scones with egg wash for a shiny, attractive finish. Then, bake for 30-35 minutes (20-25 minutes for smaller scones) until they are golden brown.
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For the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of cream until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled scones and let the glaze set before serving.
Optional: Dust with additional powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Maple Walnut Scones
- Chill Components: Keep the butter cold right until mixing to achieve that perfect flaky scone texture.
- Gentle Mixing: Overmixing can lead to tough scones; mix just until combined for a tender result.
- Customize Nuts: Feel free to swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for variety; just ensure they’re lightly toasted.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh to maximize rise and fluffiness in your Cinnamon Maple Walnut Scones.
- Glaze to Taste: Adjust the glaze thickness with a splash of cream for a delightful finish that complements the scones perfectly.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Maple Walnut Scones?
Elevate your brunch experience with delightful pairings that complement the warm, nutty flavors of the scones.
- Clotted Cream: This rich and luscious topping enhances the scone’s texture, making each bite feel indulgent and comforting.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits adds vibrant color and a juicy contrast to the warm scones.
- Maple-Infused Coffee: The hints of maple in your coffee will enhance the scone’s flavors, creating a harmonious breakfast experience.
- Honey Butter: Spread a touch of sweet honey butter on your scones for an added layer of decadence that pairs beautifully with the maple glaze.
For an extra special treat, consider serving alongside a warm chai latte. The spices in chai complement the cinnamon in the scones, creating a cozy flavor symphony that warms the heart. Enjoy this delightful combination, and your brunch will become a cherished occasion!
Cinnamon Maple Walnut Scones Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful scones to suit your tastes!
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Dried Fruit: Add ½ cup of chopped dried cranberries or apricots to introduce a sweet-tart flavor contrast. The chewy texture brings another layer of enjoyment.
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Nutmeg Boost: Sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg for extra warmth and depth. This classic spice pairs beautifully with cinnamon, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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Mixed Nuts: Swap walnuts for toasted pecans or almonds for a different nutty profile. Each offers a unique crunch that can completely change the character of the scones.
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Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based butter to make it vegan. This adaptation ensures everyone can enjoy this cozy treat.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to create a gluten-free version that everyone can savor. Be sure to check the flour’s properties for best results.
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Flavor Extracts: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract into the wet ingredients for an aromatic twist that adds complexity to each bite. This subtle change makes a warm hug of flavor.
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Savory Touch: For an adventurous spin, mix in crumbled feta cheese and fresh herbs like chives for herb-infused scones. These would make a delightful addition to a brunch table.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger to infuse some heat for a surprising yet exciting flavor balance. It’s a fun way to make your scones stand out!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Maple Walnut Scones are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, sugar, cinnamon, and salt) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can also cube the cold butter and refrigerate it separately for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet ingredients and proceed with the mixing, cutting, and baking steps. To maintain that delightful texture, be sure to refrigerate the formed dough for 15-30 minutes before baking if you prep it in advance. Enjoy the time-saving benefits while still delivering warm, flaky scones that are just as delicious!
Storage Tips for Cinnamon Maple Walnut Scones
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Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their delightful texture and flavor, keeping them fresh for those cozy brunch moments.
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Fridge: If you need a bit more time, you can keep the scones in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying to retain their flaky goodness.
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Freezer: Freeze the scones for up to 3 months. Wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This keeps your Cinnamon Maple Walnut Scones ready for any impromptu cravings!
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Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat the scones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This revives their fresh-baked taste and fragrance, making them irresistible!
Cinnamon Maple Walnut Scones Recipe FAQs
How should I select walnuts for my scones?
Choose walnuts that are light and have a fresh aroma. Avoid any with dark spots or a rancid smell, as this indicates they may be stale. Lightly toasting them enhances their flavor, so I often recommend doing this for the best taste!
What is the best way to store leftover scones?
Store your Cinnamon Maple Walnut Scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have extras, refrigerate them for a maximum of 5 days. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying to keep that delightful texture.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Maple Walnut Scones?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their flaky goodness.
What should I do if my scones come out too dense?
If your scones turn out dense, it might be due to overmixing the dough. Always mix just until combined—this keeps your scones tender and fluffy. Using cold butter is also essential for achieving the right texture, so ensure it’s cold right until mixing.
Can these scones be made vegan or gluten-free?
Yes! For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use non-dairy milk alongside the vinegar. For gluten-free scones, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Both substitutions can yield delicious results!
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Keep in mind that this recipe contains gluten and nuts, which can be allergens for some. Always check labels if you’re using premade ingredients, and consider alternatives like gluten-free flour or seeds instead of nuts for those with nut allergies. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Cinnamon Maple Walnut Scones: The Ultimate Cozy Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Cut in the cold diced butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbles.
- Mix in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they’re well-distributed.
- Whisk the eggs, buttermilk, and maple syrup together in a separate bowl.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
- Form the dough into a disk about 1-inch thick, then cut it into wedges.
- Brush the tops of the scones with egg wash and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of cream for glaze.
- Drizzle over the cooled scones and dust with additional powdered sugar if desired.