If you’ve been searching for the perfect cozy treat that brings that wonderful warm feeling of fall right into your kitchen, this Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender scones bursting with juicy bits of apple, the comforting spice of cinnamon, and sweet raisins tucked inside every bite—these scones are the ultimate marriage of flavor and texture that feels like a hug on a plate. They’re simple enough to whip up on a lazy weekend morning but special enough to impress everyone at your next brunch. Trust me, once you try this Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe, it might just become your new go-to comfort baking classic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a vital role in building the scone’s delightful taste and texture. From the rich butter that creates flakiness to the cinnamon that spices things up, every component is thoughtfully chosen for balance and flavor harmony.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for tender but sturdy scones that hold together perfectly.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to compliment the fruit.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the scones rise and stay fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses that warm, spicy note that defines the recipe.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (cut into small cubes): Key to creating the flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1/2 cup chopped apple (peeled and cored): Provides juicy bursts of freshness inside every bite.
- 1/3 cup raisins: Adds chewy sweetness and contrasts beautifully with the apples.
- 2/3 cup heavy cream: Keeps the dough rich and tender.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and lends structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a gentle aromatic touch.
- Additional cream and coarse sugar for topping (optional): Creates a glossy, crunchy finish that’s simply irresistible.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Mix Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper—it’s the key to scones that bake evenly without sticking. In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This dry mix sets the stage for a perfectly balanced flavor and ensures your scones rise beautifully.
Step 2: Incorporate Butter for Flaky Texture
Cut the cold butter into the dry mixture using either a pastry cutter or just your fingers—working quickly helps keep the butter cold and creates that signature crumbly texture. You’ll want the mixture to look like coarse crumbs; this step is crucial because those little butter pockets puff up in the oven, giving the scones their tenderness and flakiness.
Step 3: Add Apples and Raisins
Gently stir in the chopped apples and raisins. These fruity bursts not only add texture but also infuse the scones with juicy sweetness and a touch of chewiness that keeps each bite interesting and satisfying.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients and Form Dough
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour this over your dry ingredients and mix just until the dough comes together—overmixing is the enemy here because it can make scones tough. Once combined, turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead very gently a few times to bring it all together.
Step 5: Shape, Cut, and Bake
Pat the dough into an 8-inch circle and slice it into 8 wedges, like a pizza. Arrange the wedges on your prepared baking sheet, brush the tops with a little extra cream, and sprinkle some coarse sugar on top if you want that sparkly crunch. Pop them in the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes until golden and inviting. Let them cool slightly before serving—they taste best warm but not piping hot.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of honey can elevate these scones even further. Freshly whipped cream or a pat of butter also complements their crumbly texture beautifully. If you want to add a bit of color and moisture, a thin spread of apple butter pairs wonderfully and keeps the apple theme going strong.
Side Dishes
These scones are fantastic on their own but also shine alongside a piping hot cup of chai tea or rich coffee. Breakfast spreads with fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a creamy cheese board make the experience feel special. Don’t be afraid to add a small bowl of maple syrup on the side for dipping—it’s delightfully indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch gathering, arrange the scones on a tiered cake stand surrounded by mini jars of jam and clotted cream for guests to customize. You can also sandwich a bit of cream cheese frosting between two scones for an unexpected treat that feels like dessert. Wrapping scones individually in parchment paper tied with twine makes an adorable homemade gift that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover scones can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days without losing their charm. Keep them away from moist environments to maintain their delightfully crumbly exterior. For longer storage, room temperature is fine but consider a paper towel underneath to absorb any moisture.
Freezing
If you want to stash some for future mornings, these scones freeze beautifully. Just wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight at room temperature or reheat directly from frozen for convenience.
Reheating
Bring your scones back to life with a quick reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, which crisps up the outside nicely while warming the inside. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make scones soft and chewy, losing that lovely flaky texture you worked for.
FAQs
Can I use dried cranberries instead of raisins?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries add a tartness that pairs wonderfully with the apples and cinnamon, offering a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile in your scones.
What kind of apples work best?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are ideal choices because they hold their shape when baked and bring a nice balance of tartness and sweetness that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
Can I make these scones vegan?
With some tweaks, yes! Substitute the butter with a vegan alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine, swap the heavy cream for a plant-based cream or milk, and use a flax egg or another egg replacer in place of the egg.
How do I prevent my scones from being dry?
The biggest culprit for dry scones is overmixing the dough, which develops too much gluten. Mix just until combined and handle the dough gently to keep your scones tender and flaky.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even some shredded coconut make fantastic additions that add crunch and complexity, just be mindful not to overload the dough to keep the scones balanced.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a freshly baked scone, especially one crafted from a beloved Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe. This recipe brings all those cozy fall flavors into a tender, flaky bite that you’ll find yourself craving again and again. Whether you’re sharing these at breakfast or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, these scones deliver comfort and joy in the simplest, most delicious way. Go ahead and try the recipe—you might just discover your new favorite baking tradition.
Print
Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these tender and flaky Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones, perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon tea. Bursting with sweet raisins and fresh apple pieces, lightly spiced with cinnamon, these scones offer a comforting blend of flavors that celebrate fall baking at its finest.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup chopped apple, peeled and cored
- 1/3 cup raisins
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping (optional)
- Additional heavy cream for brushing
- Coarse sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening and spices.
- Cut in butter. Add the cold unsalted butter cubes to the dry ingredients and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, ensuring flaky texture.
- Add fruit. Stir in the chopped apple and raisins evenly throughout the mixture for bursts of sweetness and flavor.
- Mix wet ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract to create a rich liquid mixture.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients. Pour the wet mixture into the dry and gently mix just until a dough forms, taking care not to overmix to maintain tenderness.
- Shape dough. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently a few times to bring it together. Pat into an 8-inch circle, about 1-inch thick.
- Cut and arrange. Cut the dough circle into 8 equal wedges and place them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Add toppings. Brush the tops of the scones with a bit of heavy cream and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired for a shiny, sweet crust.
- Bake. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes until the scones are golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and serve. Remove from the oven and let the scones cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving warm.
Notes
- For softer scones, avoid overworking the dough to keep them tender and flaky.
- You can substitute dried cranberries or chopped dates for the raisins for a different fruity twist.
- Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work best as they hold their shape and add a nice balance of tartness.
