Maple pecan scones

Maple pecan scones are the perfect cozy autumn treat that brings together tender, flaky layers with the warm sweetness of maple syrup and toasted pecans. I’ve been making these scones for years, and they never fail to fill my kitchen with the most comforting aroma on cool fall mornings.

There’s something magical about pulling a tray of golden scones from the oven on a quiet Saturday morning. The butter creates those beautiful flaky layers while the maple glaze adds just the right touch of sweetness. These maple pecan scones have become my go-to recipe when I want something special but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. They come together quickly with simple ingredients, and the combination of nutty pecans with rich maple flavor makes them absolutely irresistible for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

What You’ll Need for These Scones

I always recommend using cold butter straight from the fridge for the flakiest texture. Pro tip: toast your pecans beforehand to bring out their natural oils and deepen the flavor.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup (for glaze)

How to Make Maple Pecan Scones

I recommend working quickly with cold ingredients to keep the butter from melting before baking.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures even browning.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This distributes the leavening evenly throughout.

Step 3: Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter still visible. These butter pieces create the flaky layers in your scones.

Step 4: Stir in the toasted pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.

Step 5: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, beaten egg, and 2 tablespoons of maple syrup until smooth.

Step 6: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix with a fork until just combined. The dough should look slightly shaggy. Avoid overmixing or your scones will turn out tough instead of tender.

Step 7: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 3/4-inch thick circle. Handle the dough as little as possible to maintain those flaky layers.

Step 8: Cut the circle into 8 wedges using a sharp knife. Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 9: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges look set. The scones should spring back slightly when touched.

Step 10: While the scones bake, prepare the maple glaze. Whisk together the powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup in a small bowl. Add more maple syrup one teaspoon at a time until you reach a drizzling consistency.

Step 11: Let the scones cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer them to a wire rack. Drizzle with the maple glaze while still slightly warm so it sets beautifully.

Perfect Pairings for Maple Pecan Scones

These scones shine brightest alongside your favorite morning beverages and complementary breakfast items.

Fresh Fruit Salad: The natural sweetness and bright acidity of berries and citrus balance the rich maple and butter flavors perfectly.

Hot Coffee or Tea: A strong cup of coffee or black tea cuts through the sweetness and enhances the nutty pecan notes in these scones.

Greek Yogurt with Honey: Creamy yogurt adds protein and tanginess that complements the sweet maple glaze beautifully.

Scrambled Eggs: For a heartier breakfast spread, serve these maple pecan scones alongside savory scrambled eggs for a sweet and savory combination.

More Delicious Breakfast and Brunch Treats

These maple pecan scones complement a variety of other breakfast favorites that make mornings special. For a protein-packed option to balance the sweetness of these scones, try the Banana Protein Muffins that provide sustained energy throughout the morning. The Croissant French Toast Bake creates an elegant brunch centerpiece when served alongside these maple scones.

Looking for more baked goods to round out the breakfast table? The Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Muffins offer a savory contrast to the sweet maple flavor, while the Orange Cardamom Bread brings warm spices and citrus notes that pair beautifully with morning coffee. For a heartier brunch spread, serve these scones with the Pizza Bagels to satisfy both sweet and savory cravings at the same meal.

Storing Your Scones

Store maple pecan scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keep them in a single layer or separate layers with parchment paper to prevent the glaze from sticking.

To reheat, place scones in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 3-5 minutes until warmed through. You can also pop them in a toaster oven for a slightly crispy exterior. The gentle heat brings back that fresh-baked texture.

Pro tip: These scones freeze beautifully. Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving.

Common Questions About This Recipe

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