Moist Apple Scones Maple Glaze

These moist apple scones with maple glaze have been a favorite weekend treat in my kitchen for years. Their tender crumb combined with the warm spices and sweet glaze never fails to impress both family and guests. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack, they bring a comforting sweetness that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.

I first made these scones on a crisp autumn morning, and since then they have become our go-to recipe for sharing at brunches. The aroma fills the house and brings everyone to the kitchen with happy smiles.

Ingredients

• Two cups all-purpose flour: makes the base tender while providing structure, opt for unbleached for best flavor
• One tablespoon baking powder: to give the scones a lovely rise and fluffy texture
• One teaspoon cinnamon and a quarter teaspoon nutmeg: add warm, comforting notes that complement the apples perfectly
• Three tablespoons sugar: to balance the spices with a touch of sweetness
• Half a teaspoon salt: to enhance all the flavors
• Five tablespoons very cold butter: cut into small cubes creates flaky layers when mixed properly
• Half a cup of apples peeled if you prefer soft bites: chopped finely to distribute sweetness evenly and add moisture
• One cup heavy cream plus extra to brush tops: for a golden finish and rich tenderness
• One recipe of easy maple glaze: to drizzle over scones providing a sticky, sweet glaze that really kicks these up a notch

Instructions

Sift and Combine Dry Ingredients:

Place the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, and salt into a food processor or stand mixer bowl. This ensures even distribution of spices and raising agents.

Cut in the Butter:

Add the cold butter cubes to the dry mix. Pulse in the processor or stir gently with a paddle attachment on medium-low until the mixture looks like damp sand with tiny pea-sized bits of butter still visible. This step is crucial for flaky texture so don&t overwork the butter.

Add Apples and Cream:

Pour the mixture into a large bowl if using a processor. Stir in the chopped apples gently using a spatula. Then pour in the cream and fold until the dough just begins to come together. It will look shaggy and crumbly at this point.

Knead Briefly:

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about 5 to 10 seconds to bring it completely together. Overkneading can make the scones dense so keep it brief.

Shape and Cut:

Pat the dough into a circle about three quarters inch thick and roughly seven and a half inches wide. Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the circle into eight even wedges.

Chill and Prepare for Baking:

Place the wedges on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up. This helps the scones hold their shape and improves texture. Before baking, brush each scone with heavy cream for a shiny golden crust.

Bake:

Bake in a preheated oven at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 13 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and edges. Let them cool on the pan for 10 minutes to set the crumb.

Glaze and Serve:

While the scones cool slightly, prepare the maple glaze if you haven&t already. Drizzle lightly over the scones and serve warm for the best experience.

My favorite ingredient is definitely the apples. Choosing crisp, fresh apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith gives the scones a nice tart contrast to the sweet glaze. I fondly remember making these with my kids during fall weekends when the house smelled like cinnamon and maple, creating those warm memories that make any kitchen feel like home.

Storage Tips

Store cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them moist, place a slice of apple or a damp paper towel inside the container. For longer storage, freeze baked scones wrapped tightly in foil and then placed in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature and warm slightly in the oven before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the heavy cream with whole milk for a lighter version though scones will be slightly less tender. For a dairy-free version use coconut oil instead of butter and a non-dairy milk such as oat milk in place of cream. If apples are out of season, pears can make a wonderful alternative providing a similar juicy texture and mild sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these scones warm topped with a dollop of clotted cream or plain yogurt for a rich contrast. Pair them with spiced chai, black tea, or freshly brewed coffee for a delightful morning or afternoon treat. Add a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts to the dough for extra crunch and nutty flavor that complements the apples beautifully.

Enjoy baking these scones with care and share the warmth with family and friends for a perfect cozy moment.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What makes the scones moist?

The combination of heavy cream and fresh apples keeps the scones tender and moist without drying out.

→ Can I use frozen apples instead of fresh?

Fresh apples are best for texture, but thawed and well-drained frozen apples can be used in a pinch.

→ Why is cold butter important in the dough?

Cold butter creates flaky layers as it melts during baking, resulting in a tender crumb.

→ How do I get the maple glaze to have the right consistency?

Use maple syrup combined with powdered sugar until smooth but pourable for an ideal glaze texture.

→ Can I store the scones after baking?

Store cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze for longer keeping.