Name: Deliciously Simple Starbucks Pumpkin Scones for Cozy Mornings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 38 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (or white sugar); 1/4 cup White Sugar (or coconut sugar); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (or pumpkin pie spice); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cloves (or nutmeg); 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger (or fresh ginger); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (optional); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (check for freshness); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (check for freshness); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (use sparingly); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (or vegan butter); 1 cup Chilled Pumpkin Puree (not pumpkin pie filling); 1/4 cup Cold Milk (or almond milk); 1 large Cold Egg (or flax egg); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (or almond extract); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (or granulated sugar); 2 tablespoons Heavy Cream (or coconut cream); 1/4 cup Pumpkin Puree (for spiced glaze); 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice (optional)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisper, I find myself craving cozy kitchen moments filled with the scent of warm spices. That’s exactly what these Simple Starbucks Pumpkin Scones offer! With just a few everyday ingredients, you can whip up this scrumptious fall treat that not only brings the café experience home but also saves you a trip and some cash. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven as a delightful breakfast or as an afternoon pick-me-up alongside your favorite brew. The buttery, tender texture paired with a sweet glaze is a sure crowd-pleaser that puts a smile on every face. Ready to impress your friends and family with some homemade goodness? Let’s get started!

Why Make These Delicious Pumpkin Scones?

Simplicity: With only a handful of ingredients, you can create a delightful café-style treat right at home.

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices fills your kitchen with inviting aromas that scream fall.

Perfect Pairing: Not only are they delicious on their own, but they’re also the perfect partner for your morning coffee or afternoon tea. Consider serving them alongside a glass of Refreshing Strawberry Lemonade for a burst of brightness!

Customizable: From adding chocolate chips to substituting sweet potatoes, you can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste.

Time-Saving: Bake these scones in under 30 minutes, providing a quick and delightful solution to your breakfast woes!

Crowd-Pleaser: Their deliciousness is sure to wow family and friends, making them a fantastic option for gatherings or cozy mornings.

Simple Starbucks Pumpkin Scones Ingredients

For the Scones
All-Purpose Flour – Provides the scones with structure; swap for gluten-free flour if needed.
Brown Sugar – Adds rich sweetness and moisture; white sugar works as a fine alternative.
White Sugar – Enhances overall sweetness; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a different twist.
Ground Cinnamon – Offers a warm spice flavor that is quintessential in fall recipes; use pumpkin pie spice if desired.
Ground Cloves – Deepens the flavor profile; nutmeg can be a great substitute if you’re out of cloves.
Ground Ginger – Delivers a hint of warmth; fresh ginger can be swapped for a brighter flavor (approximately 1/4 tsp of dried for every inch of fresh ginger).
Ground Nutmeg – contributes a seasonal spice note; optional if you prefer a milder flavor.
Baking Soda & Baking Powder – These leavening agents ensure the scones are fluffy; always check for freshness for the best results.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavors; use sparingly to prevent oversalting.
Unsalted Butter – Creates a flaky texture; vegan butter is an excellent dairy-free substitute.
Chilled Pumpkin Puree – The star of your scones; remember, don’t use pumpkin pie filling—it’s loaded with extra sugars and spices.
Cold Milk – Hydrates the dough beautifully; almond milk makes a fantastic dairy-free option.
Cold Egg – Binds the mixture together; you can use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax combined with 2.5 tbsp water) for a vegan alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the taste with its warm notes; swap for almond extract for a different flair.
For the Glaze
Powdered Sugar – The key ingredient for a sweet, creamy glaze; granulated sugar can be finely blended if needed.
Heavy Cream – Gives the glaze a rich, velvety texture; substitute coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Pumpkin Puree (for Spiced Glaze) – Enhances the glaze’s flavor, ensuring it’s the canned variety as specified.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds extra autumn zest to the glaze; you can also make your own spice mix at home.

Embrace the warmth of cozy mornings with these Simple Starbucks Pumpkin Scones and fill your home with delightful scents!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Simple Starbucks Pumpkin Scones

Step 1: Prepare for baking
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking. This initial step sets the stage for your Homemade Starbucks Pumpkin Scones, ensuring they bake evenly and come out golden and lovely.

Step 2: Mix wet ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the chilled pumpkin puree, cold milk, cold egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and uniform. Keep this mixture chilled in the refrigerator while you move to the next step of preparing the dry ingredients. Keeping everything cold helps maintain a tender texture in your pumpkin scones.

Step 3: Combine dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, white sugar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix until evenly combined, which will create a well-balanced flavor profile for your Simple Starbucks Pumpkin Scones. This dry mixture will form the base of your tasty pastry.

Step 4: Incorporate butter
Add the cold, diced unsalted butter to your bowl of dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for creating the flaky texture of your pumpkin scones, so take your time to ensure the butter is well incorporated without overmixing.

Step 5: Combine mixtures
Make a well in the center of your dry ingredients, then pour in the chilled pumpkin mixture you prepared earlier. Gently fold the ingredients together with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to dense scones instead of the light, fluffy texture you desire.

Step 6: Shape dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. With clean hands, gently fold the dough over itself two to three times, then shape it into a rectangle measuring about 8×5 inches and roughly 1 inch thick. This shaping helps develop the layers in your Simple Starbucks Pumpkin Scones, producing a delightful texture when baked.

Step 7: Cut scones
Using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, cut the formed dough into 6 equal squares. Carefully transfer these squares onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each piece to allow for spreading during baking. This positioning ensures even cooking and that each scone has enough room to rise nicely.

Step 8: Bake
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the scones for 17 to 18 minutes. You’ll know they are done when they have risen and are lightly golden on the tops. The enticing aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!

Step 9: Cool
After removing the scones from the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows them to firm up a bit. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they don’t become soggy on the bottom.

Step 10: Make the glaze
While the scones cool, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar with heavy cream in a small bowl. Keep adjusting the thickness to your liking by adding more powdered sugar or cream as needed. A creamy glaze will enhance the pumpkin flavor beautifully.

Step 11: Glaze scones
Once the scones are fully cooled, take the glaze and evenly spread it on the top of each scone. Afterward, drizzle with the optional spiced glaze for an extra touch of autumn flavor. Allow the glaze to set for about 15 to 20 minutes before serving, creating a delightful finish for your Simple Starbucks Pumpkin Scones.

Simple Starbucks Pumpkin Scones Variations

Feel free to get creative with these scones and tailor them to your taste buds!

Sweet Potato: Substitute pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree for a deliciously different flavor. A vibrant twist that still captures the essence of fall!
Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for extra texture and a nutty flavor. They’ll add a delightful crunch to your fluffy scones!
Chocolate Chip: Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite. It’s a delightful way to indulge that adds a rich depth to the pumpkin flavor!
Maple Glaze: Swap the heavy cream in the glaze for maple syrup to create a sweet, earthy glaze that perfectly complements the pumpkin. This adds a fragrant, cozy note to your scones.
Cinnamon Sugar: Brush scones with melted butter right after baking and sprinkle with a cinnamon sugar mixture for an extra touch of sweetness. This finishing touch makes every bite feel special!
Add Spice: Increase the ground ginger and cloves for a spicier kick, or mix in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a surprising heat. It’s a bold twist for those who love a little extra fire!
Cream Cheese Swirl: Add dollops of softened cream cheese to the dough before baking for a tangy surprise in each scone. It adds both creaminess and a lovely tart flavor.
Zest It Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the mixture for a bright, refreshing contrast to the pumpkin. It adds an invigorating brightness to your warm, spiced scones.

And while you’re enjoying these cozy scones, why not fix yourself a glass of Refreshing Strawberry Lemonade to pair alongside? You’ll have a perfect autumn treat to warm your spirit!

Make Ahead Options

These Simple Starbucks Pumpkin Scones are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately and storing them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Just before baking, combine the ingredients, shape the scones, and cut them into squares. If you prefer, you can also freeze unglazed scones for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you’ll have homemade treats just as delicious as your favorite coffee shop pastries with minimal morning effort!

Helpful Tricks for Simple Starbucks Pumpkin Scones

Cold Ingredients Only: Keep all wet ingredients, especially the butter and pumpkin puree, cold to maintain a flaky texture in your scones.
Gentle Mixing: Avoid overworking the dough; mix gently until just combined to prevent dense scones.
Chill Before Baking: If time allows, chill the shaped scones in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape and create a fluffy result.
Check Leavening Agents: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for optimal rise, preventing flat scones.
Glaze Consistency: Gradually add cream to the glaze until you reach your desired thickness. A drizzle that’s too runny or too thick won’t enhance your pumpkin scones as beautifully.
Customizable Flavor: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for a fun twist on these simple Starbucks pumpkin scones!

What to Serve with Starbucks Copycat Pumpkin Scones

These delightful scones are just the start of a cozy fall meal that will wrap you in warmth and flavor.

Creamy Chai Latte:
The spiced warmth of a chai latte pairs beautifully with the pumpkin flavors, enhancing your scone experience.
Maple-Glazed Bacon:
Sweet meets savory with crispy bacon drizzled in maple syrup, creating a delightful contrast to the scones’ sweetness.
Fresh Fruit Salad:
A vibrant mixture of apples, pears, and pomegranate gives a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the scones.
Spiced Apple Cider:
Warm spiced apple cider complements the warm spices in the scones, making it a perfect seasonal drink.
Whipped Cream:
Light and fluffy, a dollop of unsweetened whipped cream on top of the scones enhances their texture and decadence.
Pumpkin Spice Latte:
This classic drink bring a cozy continuity, echoing the flavors in the scones for the ultimate autumnal treat.

Pair these suggestions with your Starbucks Copycat Pumpkin Scones for a memorable experience this fall!

How to Store and Freeze Simple Starbucks Pumpkin Scones

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; this keeps the scones fresh and soft while maintaining their delightful texture.
Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, they can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week, but let them come to room temperature before enjoying for the best flavor.
Freezer: Freeze unglazed scones in a single layer for up to 3 months. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag, sealing out air for optimal freshness.
Reheating: To enjoy a freshly baked taste, reheat scones in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes or until warmed through, preserving the wonderful essence of these Simple Starbucks Pumpkin Scones.

Simple Starbucks Pumpkin Scones Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best pumpkin puree for these scones?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, always opt for pure, canned pumpkin puree, ensuring it’s not pumpkin pie filling, which includes sweeteners and spices. Look for brands that list “pumpkin” as the only ingredient on the label for a fresh, natural taste.

What’s the best way to store leftover pumpkin scones?
To keep your scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, place them in the refrigerator, where they can stay fresh for up to a week, but allow them to warm to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Can I freeze the pumpkin scones?
Very! Freeze your unglazed scones for up to 3 months. To do this, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer bag, ensuring to seal out all air to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

What if my scones turn out too dense?
If your scones are dense, it may be due to overmixing the dough. When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they come together. Additionally, ensure that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents can hinder the rise. If you’re ever in doubt, you can also chill shaped scones for 15-20 minutes before baking to further enhance their fluffy texture.

Are these scones safe for my pet?
While pumpkin is beneficial for dogs in moderation, be cautious of other ingredients like sugar and butter that may not be suitable for them. It’s always best to keep your pumpkin scones as a delightful treat for you and your family, rather than sharing with your furry friends.