Irresistible Butterscotch Scones: A Starbucks Pumpkin Scone Inspired Recipe with Pecans
Prepare to elevate your breakfast or afternoon tea experience with these truly irresistible Butterscotch Scones. This unique recipe takes inspiration from the beloved Starbucks Pumpkin Scones, transforming them into an even more delightful treat by swapping the traditional glaze for sweet butterscotch chips and crunchy toasted pecans. The result is a scone that’s perfectly crumbly, incredibly flavorful, and wonderfully comforting. Whether you’re a long-time scone enthusiast or looking for a new baking adventure, this recipe promises a homemade pastry that will quickly become a favorite.
What makes these scones truly special is the thoughtful combination of flavors and textures. The subtle warmth of pumpkin spice, the rich, buttery sweetness of butterscotch, and the earthy crunch of pecans come together in a harmonious bite. Unlike many scone recipes that can be dry or bland, these maintain a tender crumb thanks to the addition of canned pumpkin, which also infuses a delicate, seasonal flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. And as a personal touch, the photo above features a package of powdered sugar from Italy, designed with a convenient sprinkle top – a simple innovation I often wish American confectioners’ sugar offered!
The Inspiration: Elevating a Starbucks Favorite
Many years ago, I fell in love with the Starbucks Pumpkin Scones. Their unique flavor and delightful texture made them a seasonal obsession. However, I always felt there was room for a personal touch, a way to make them even more special in a homemade setting. That’s where the idea for these Butterscotch Scones originated. I decided to take the core elements of the Starbucks recipe – particularly its excellent scone base – and infuse it with new character. The key modifications were removing the traditional glaze (though you could certainly add one if you miss it!), and introducing the luscious combination of butterscotch chips and toasted pecans.
This transformation not only creates a different flavor profile but also offers a pastry that feels more gourmet and homemade. The butterscotch chips melt slightly, creating pockets of gooey sweetness, while the pecans add a much-needed textural contrast and nutty depth. It’s an evolution that respects the original while carving out its own delicious identity, making it perfect for those who appreciate a less intensely sweet scone than its glazed counterpart, or simply crave a richer, more complex flavor experience.
Crafting Perfect Scones: Tips for Success
Making scones might seem intimidating, but with a few simple tips, you can achieve bakery-quality results right in your own kitchen. The secret to a light, flaky scone lies in how you handle the ingredients and the dough. These Butterscotch Scones are no exception, and following these guidelines will ensure every batch is a triumph.
The Importance of Cold Butter
One of the most crucial elements in scone making is using very cold butter. Just like with pie crusts or biscuits, cold butter cut into small pieces prevents it from fully incorporating into the flour mixture too quickly. As the scones bake, these tiny pieces of butter melt, releasing steam and creating those wonderful pockets of air that lead to a flaky, tender texture. If your butter is too warm, it will blend too easily, resulting in a denser, tougher scone. You can even cube your butter and chill it in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before using it for optimal results.
Don’t Overmix the Dough
Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is moistened and comes together. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough, chewy scone instead of the desired light and airy crumb. A slightly shaggy, sticky dough is what you’re aiming for. Resist the urge to knead it excessively; gentle handling is key to a tender scone.
Accurate Flour Measurement
Flour can be tricky to measure accurately without a kitchen scale. If you don’t own a scale (though I highly recommend investing in one for baking!), use the “spoon and sweep” method. Gently spoon the flour into your measuring cup until it’s overflowing, then use a straight edge (like the back of a knife) to level it off. Don’t pack the flour down or scoop directly from the bag, as this can add too much flour, making your dough dry and your scones dense.
Toasting Pecans for Enhanced Flavor
While optional, toasting the pecans before adding them to the scone dough brings out their natural oils and deepens their flavor. You can do this easily by spreading them on a baking sheet and toasting them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant. Let them cool completely before chopping and adding them to the dough.
Recipe: Pumpkin Pecan Butterscotch Scones
Butterscotch Scones
Anna
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour or white whole wheat flour** (270 grams)
- 7 tablespoons granulated sugar (84 grams)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- 6 tablespoons cold butter (I used salted) (90 grams)
- ½ cup canned pumpkin (120 grams)
- ¾ teaspoon vanilla
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup butterscotch chips or use semi-sweet chocolate chips instead
- ⅓ cup chopped toasted pecans
- Powdered sugar for garnish
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 425 degree F (220 C).
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Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and ginger together in a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a food processor. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender, two knives, or pulse in a food processor, until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.
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In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin, vanilla, milk, and large egg until well combined. Add this wet mixture to the dry crumbly mixture, then gently fold in the butterscotch chips and toasted pecans. Mix just until the dough comes together; avoid overmixing. Shape the dough into a large 9-inch round, about 1 inch high. Using a sharp knife or pastry cutter, cut the round into 6 even triangles. Carefully transfer these triangles to a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
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Allow the scones to cool for at least 10 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust generously with powdered sugar just before serving.
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This recipe yields 6 delicious, generously sized scones.
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**A note on flour measurement: For best results, especially if you don’t have a kitchen scale, gently spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge. Do not pack the flour. Using a scale (270 grams) guarantees accuracy and consistent scone texture.
Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations
These Butterscotch Scones are fantastic on their own, especially when still slightly warm from the oven and dusted with a generous amount of powdered sugar. However, there are many ways to enjoy and customize them to your liking.
Perfect Pairings
- Coffee or Tea: A classic choice! The rich flavors of the scone complement a strong cup of coffee or a fragrant herbal tea beautifully.
- A Dollop of Cream: For an extra touch of indulgence, serve with a spoonful of clotted cream, whipped cream, or even crème fraîche.
- Fruit Preserves: While these scones are flavorful enough without it, a light spread of apricot jam, fig preserves, or apple butter can add another layer of deliciousness.
- Seasonal Sides: Pair them with fresh fruit like sliced apples, pears, or berries for a balanced breakfast or brunch.
Exciting Variations
The beauty of homemade baking is the ability to experiment. Don’t hesitate to put your own spin on these butterscotch pecan scones:
- Chocolate Lover’s Delight: If butterscotch isn’t your favorite, easily swap the butterscotch chips for semi-sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, or even white chocolate chips for a different kind of sweet indulgence.
- Nutty Alternatives: Instead of pecans, try walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of your favorite nuts. Just remember to toast them first for the best flavor.
- Spice it Up: For a bolder fall flavor, increase the cinnamon and ginger, or add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the dry ingredients.
- Add a Glaze: If you miss the classic scone glaze, whip up a simple one! A quick powdered sugar glaze (powdered sugar mixed with a tiny bit of milk or lemon juice) can be drizzled over the cooled scones. You could even add a drop of maple extract to the glaze for a “maple butterscotch” twist.
- Dried Fruits: Incorporate dried cranberries, chopped apricots, or golden raisins for additional chewiness and fruity notes.
Storing Your Homemade Scones
For optimal freshness, these Butterscotch Scones are best enjoyed the day they are baked. Their tender texture and distinct flavor shine when they are fresh. However, if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To revive them, a quick reheat in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a toaster oven for a few minutes can bring back some of their original warmth and softness.
You can also freeze unbaked scone dough. Simply cut the scone triangles, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, place the frozen scones directly on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
A Sweet Treat for Any Occasion
These Pumpkin Pecan Butterscotch Scones are more than just a recipe; they’re an invitation to slow down, savor a moment, and enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade baking. Whether you’re preparing a special brunch, looking for a comforting treat on a chilly morning, or simply want to impress guests with your baking prowess, these scones are sure to delight. The blend of warm spices, the rich butterscotch, and the satisfying crunch of pecans create a memorable flavor profile that evokes coziness and joy. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and bake a batch of these glorious scones. Your taste buds will thank you!