The aroma of freshly baked scones wafts through the air, wrapping around me like a warm hug on a chilly morning. Today, I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for Cinnamon Raisin Scones with Nutmeg-Almond Glaze—an irresistible twist on the classic cinnamon raisin bread that your taste buds will adore. These scones are not only an easy choice for breakfast but also a delightful addition to any brunch gathering, providing the perfect comfort without overwhelming sweetness. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, you’ll be enjoying these tender, golden pastries in no time. Who can resist a coffee companion dripping with a nutmeg-almond glaze? Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that’s bound to become a favorite at your table!
Why You’ll Love These Scones
Irresistible Aroma: As these Cinnamon Raisin Scones bake, the delightful scent of cinnamon and fresh almonds fills your kitchen, making it feel like a cozy bakery right at home.
Quick Prep: In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up these tender scones, perfect for busy mornings or last-minute brunch plans.
Versatility Galore: Feel free to switch out the raisins for your favorite dried fruits or add nuts for extra crunch. These scones can easily be customized to suit your taste!
Comfort Food Favorite: With their flaky texture and warm, spiced flavors, these scones deliver that classic American comfort you crave. They’re the ideal pairing for your morning coffee or afternoon tea!
Don’t miss out on elevating your breakfast game with these delightful treats. For more exciting variations, check out our guide on Breakfast Scone Options.
Cinnamon Raisin Scone Ingredients
For the Scones
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the scones; can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Raisins – Adds natural sweetness and chewiness; try mixed dried fruits for a fun twist.
• White sugar – Sweetens the dough; brown sugar can also be used for a richer flavor.
• Butter – Creates a flaky texture when cold; avoid room temperature butter for best results.
• Sour cream – Adds moisture and creaminess; plain yogurt works as a suitable substitute.
• Cinnamon – Provides warm, aromatic flavor; Saigon cinnamon offers a more robust taste.
• Baking powder – Ensures the scones rise beautifully; freshness is key for best outcomes.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor; use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness.
• Baking soda – Aids in leavening and works alongside baking powder for fluffiness.
• Egg – Binds ingredients and enriches the dough; make sure it’s at room temperature.
For the Glaze
• Powdered sugar – Essential for a sweet glaze; can be replaced with honey for a unique twist.
• Milk – Thins the glaze; any plant-based milk is a great dairy-free option.
• Almond extract – Adds depth to the glaze; vanilla extract can easily be swapped in.
• Nutmeg – Complements cinnamon in the glaze; freshly grated is best for a vibrant flavor.
These delightful Cinnamon Raisin Scones are simple to make and will fill your kitchen with tantalizing aromas. Get ready for a satisfying breakfast or brunch treat that everyone will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Raisin Scones
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it reaches the perfect temperature for fluffy and golden Cinnamon Raisin Scones. While the oven heats, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper, making for easy cleanup and preventing sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Use a whisk to blend these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors. You’ll know it’s ready when the blend appears uniform and the inviting scent of cinnamon fills the air.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Now, grab your cold, cubed butter and a pastry cutter. Incorporate the butter into the dry mix until it resembles coarse crumbs, with pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. This step is crucial for achieving the flaky texture of the scones, so be gentle, and take about 3–5 minutes to complete.
Step 4: Add the Raisins
Fold in the plump raisins gently into the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The sweetness of the raisins pairs beautifully with the spice of the cinnamon, making your Cinnamon Raisin Scones absolutely delightful.
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the room-temperature egg and sour cream until smooth. Once combined, pour this wet mixture into your dry ingredients, blending until just incorporated. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable—if it feels too dry, add a bit more sour cream for that perfect consistency.
Step 6: Form the Dough
Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it. Use your hands to gently pat the mixture into a 7-inch disc about 1-inch thick. Be careful not to overwork the dough; you want your scones to remain tender. Use a sharp knife to slice the disc into eight equal triangles.
Step 7: Bake the Scones
Transfer the triangles onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one for proper rising. Bake the scones for 15 to 16 minutes, or until they are lightly golden on top. Keep an eye on them; they should spring back when gently touched, signaling they are done.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
While the scones are baking, combine powdered sugar, milk, almond extract, and grated nutmeg in a bowl. Whisk until you achieve a smooth and drizzle-able consistency. Adjust the milk if necessary—you want it to be slightly pourable for a beautiful glaze on your Cinnamon Raisin Scones.
Step 9: Cool and Glaze
Once baked, remove the Cinnamon Raisin Scones from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack. After they’ve cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze generously over each scone, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a lovely finish.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Cinnamon Raisin Scones are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can shape the scone dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. To maintain their quality, wrap each unbaked triangle tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. If you’re planning further ahead, feel free to freeze the shaped scones; they’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge in these treats, simply bake straight from the refrigerator or frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time until they are golden. This way, you can enjoy fresh scones with minimal effort on busy mornings!
Storage Tips for Cinnamon Raisin Scones
Room Temperature: Keep your freshly baked scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: While it’s best not to refrigerate, if needed, scones can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember they might lose some of their flakiness.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked scone dough or baked scones for up to 3 months. If freezing baked scones, wrap them tightly. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through, restoring that beautiful texture to the Cinnamon Raisin Scones.
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Raisin Scones
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Cold Butter Matters: Ensure your butter is very cold. It helps create those flaky layers in the scones, so avoid using room temperature butter.
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Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the ingredients until just combined to prevent tough scones. Over-kneading can lead to a dense texture.
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Check Flour Measurements: Be sure to measure your flour correctly—spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off to avoid adding too much flour to your Cinnamon Raisin Scones.
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Room Temperature Egg: Use a room temperature egg for even mixing. Cold eggs can affect the scone’s texture, making them less fluffy.
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Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your scones while baking. Ovens can vary, so if they don’t spring back when lightly touched after 15-16 minutes, give them an extra minute or two, but be careful not to over-bake.
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Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to tweak the glaze. A splash of vanilla or a hint of citrus can elevate the flavors and create a personal touch to your Cinnamon Raisin Scones.
Cinnamon Raisin Scones Variations
Get ready to explore delicious twists on classic cinnamon raisin scones that your taste buds will love!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delightful texture without the gluten.
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Fruit Fiesta: Swap raisins for a medley of dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a burst of vibrant flavors. This variation adds a sweet tang that surprises and delights!
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a heavenly crunch. This contrast in texture makes every bite more exciting!
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Spice Explosion: Add a teaspoon of cardamom or allspice to the dry mixture for a warm, aromatic kick that elevates the scone’s flavor profile. The added depth of spice warms the heart and soul!
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Sweetener Swap: Replace white sugar with brown sugar to create a richer, deeper sweetness that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon. Brown sugar’s caramel notes make for an irresistible twist.
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Creamy Goodness: Substitute sour cream with buttermilk or Greek yogurt for a slightly tangy twist that adds extra moisture. The result is a tender, delicious scone bursting with flavor!
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Maple Delight: Change the glaze by using maple syrup instead of powdered sugar for a delightful, earthy sweetness drizzled over your scones. It evokes warmth and nostalgia every time!
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Citrus Zing: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a bright, refreshing burst that contrasts beautifully with the warmth of cinnamon. This lively note transforms the classic recipe into something extraordinary!
These variations allow you to customize your cinnamon raisin scones to suit any occasion. So, let your creativity flow, and don’t hesitate to try these delightful twists! For even more inspiration, check out our guide on Breakfast Scone Options.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Raisin Scones
Start your day on a delicious note by pairing these warm scones with your favorite accompaniments for a delightful breakfast experience.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing touch, balancing the sweetness of the scones beautifully.
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Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with berries and granola for a nutritious, satisfying dish that complements the cinnamon flavors perfectly.
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Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of coffee or your favorite tea enhances the warmth of the scones, making for a cozy morning ritual.
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Honey Butter: Spread a dollop of honey butter over the warm scones for an extra indulgent touch that brings out the cinnamon sweetness.
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Maple Syrup: Drizzling pure maple syrup on top of the scones creates a delightful sweetness that harmonizes wonderfully with the nutmeg-almond glaze.
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Savory Cheddar Biscuits: This unexpected pairing introduces a contrasting flavor; the sharp cheddar balances the sweetness, providing a delightful variety.
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Mixed Nuts: A small bowl of roasted mixed nuts adds a crunchy texture, offering a satisfying contrast to the tender scones.
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Chai Latte: The spiced flavors of a chai latte echo the warmth of the cinnamon, making for a comforting combination that warms the soul.
Enjoy crafting a full breakfast or brunch spread that showcases these delightful scones and elevates your morning routine!
Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best raisins for my scones?
Absolutely! When selecting raisins, look for plump, moist ones. If you see dark spots all over, they may be dried out. I often prefer golden raisins for their sweetness and chewiness; they provide a delightful contrast to the spiced scone.
How should I store my Cinnamon Raisin Scones?
To keep your scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you must refrigerate, they can last up to a week, though they might lose some of their tender flakiness. Always bring them to room temperature before enjoying for the best experience.
Can I freeze my Cinnamon Raisin Scones?
Very! You can freeze either unbaked dough or baked scones. To freeze the unbaked dough, shape the scones, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, you can pop them straight from the freezer into the oven, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
What if my scone dough is too dry?
If your dough feels too dry and crumbly, don’t worry! Simply add an extra tablespoon of sour cream or a splash of milk. This can make a world of difference! Mix gently until the dough comes together—remember, the more you knead, the tougher the scone will be, and we want tender bites!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you’re baking for someone with allergies, you can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those who are gluten-sensitive. To make these scones dairy-free, opt for plant-based milk and use a dairy-free yogurt in place of sour cream. Always ensure that your raisins do not contain any added preservatives that might trigger allergies.
Can I make these Cinnamon Raisin Scones vegan?
Yes, you certainly can! To veganize the recipe, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water—let sit to thicken) and replace the butter with a plant-based alternative. Use dairy-free yogurt or a non-dairy milk to keep the rest of the recipe intact. Get creative, and you’ll have delicious vegan scones!
Cinnamon Raisin Scones That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Cut in the cold cubed butter with a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gently fold in the raisins until evenly distributed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the room-temperature egg and sour cream until smooth, then add to the dry ingredients.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, and pat into a 7-inch disc about 1-inch thick, then slice into 8 triangles.
- Transfer the triangles to the baking sheet, bake for 15-16 minutes until golden, and spring back when touched.
- Combine powdered sugar, milk, almond extract, and nutmeg in a bowl and whisk until smooth for the glaze.
- Cool scones for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack and drizzle the glaze over each scone.
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