Maple-Glazed Apple Scones

There’s something undeniably comforting about fresh-baked scones, especially when they’re bursting with tender apples and finished with a sweet maple glaze. These Maple-Glazed Apple Scones are the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up. Flaky, buttery, and lightly spiced with cinnamon, they strike the perfect balance between tender crumb and a slightly crisp exterior. The maple glaze adds a luscious finish that elevates each bite into a cozy little celebration of fall flavors, no matter the season.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

If you’re someone who loves baking but values simplicity, these scones are a dream come true. They come together quickly with straightforward ingredients, require minimal steps, and bake up beautifully every time. Whether you’re new to scone-making or a seasoned pro, this recipe guarantees delicious results without fuss.

Beyond convenience, these Maple-Glazed Apple Scones are incredibly versatile. The fresh apples add natural sweetness and moisture, while the cinnamon and maple syrup bring warmth and depth. They make a delightful companion to your morning coffee or a tasty snack to enjoy throughout the day. Plus, they impress guests without demanding hours in the kitchen.

If you’re a fan of exploring different breakfast treats, you might also enjoy the fluffy and flavorful Apple Cinnamon Puffed Pancake, which complements these scones beautifully.

What Goes Into Maple-Glazed Apple Scones

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – The backbone of the scone dough for a tender crumb.
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder – Helps the scones rise and stay light.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed – Creates that flaky, buttery texture.
• 1/2 cup diced apples – Fresh apples bring juiciness and a natural fruity sweetness.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
• 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients and adds tenderness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a subtle fragrant sweetness.
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup – For the glaze that adds a glossy, sweet finish.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Warms the flavor profile and pairs perfectly with apples.

Prep & Cook Tools

• Mixing bowls – For combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Pastry cutter or fork – To cut the cold butter into the flour for that perfect flaky texture.
• Baking sheet – To bake the scones evenly.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Sharp knife – For cutting the dough into wedges.
• Whisk – For mixing the wet ingredients and glaze smoothly.
• Cooling rack – Allows the scones to cool properly without sogginess.

Make Maple-Glazed Apple Scones: A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until evenly combined.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or fork, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces. This step is key to achieving flaky scones.

Step 4: Add Apples

Fold in the diced apples gently, distributing them evenly throughout the flour-butter mixture.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should hold together but stay slightly crumbly.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat it into a 7-inch circle about 1-inch thick. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 equal wedges.

Step 7: Bake

Transfer the wedges to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Prepare the Maple Glaze

While the scones bake, whisk together the pure maple syrup and a splash of heavy cream (about 1 tablespoon) in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 9: Glaze and Cool

Once the scones come out of the oven, immediately brush the tops with the maple glaze. Let them cool on a wire rack before serving to allow the glaze to set perfectly.

If you are intrigued by different textures, you might also want to try Fried Scones for a crispy alternative that’s just as delicious.

Make It Year-Round

• In spring and summer, substitute the apples with fresh berries or diced peaches for a bright twist.
• During fall and winter, use tart apples like Granny Smiths and add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for extra spice.
• Freeze unbaked scone dough wedges for up to 2 months, then bake directly from frozen for a quick treat.
• Swap out maple syrup glaze for a simple lemon glaze or vanilla icing if preferred.

Pro Tips & Notes

• Keep the butter cold: Cold butter ensures that the scones will be flaky and tender. Avoid letting it soften before mixing.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Overworking the dough will develop gluten and make the scones tough instead of light and crumbly.
• Diced apples: Use firm apples and dice them small so they bake evenly and don’t weigh down the dough.
• Glaze immediately: Applying the maple glaze while the scones are hot helps it soak in and create a beautiful sheen.
• Customize spices: Feel free to adjust cinnamon to your taste or add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.

Shelf Life & Storage

Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and tender. For longer storage, place them in a sealed freezer bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature and warm slightly in the oven or microwave.

Common Qs About Maple-Glazed Apple Scones

Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Absolutely! Firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith work best since they hold their shape during baking and add a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.

Is it okay to substitute the heavy cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream, whole milk or half-and-half can be used, but the scones may be slightly less rich and tender. For dairy-free options, a full-fat coconut milk or plant-based cream alternative works well.

How do I make the scones less sweet?

You can reduce the granulated sugar slightly or skip the maple glaze altogether if you prefer a more savory or less sweet treat. The natural sweetness from the apples will still shine through.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough, shape it into wedges, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

You Might Also Like

• Fried Scones – A crispy, golden twist on traditional scones.
• Apple Cinnamon Puffed Pancake – A fluffy and flavorful baked pancake packed with warm spices.

That’s a Wrap

These Maple-Glazed Apple Scones have quickly become a favorite because they combine ease, flavor, and a touch of elegance in one simple recipe. They’re perfect for cozy mornings or special occasions, and their sweet, spiced apple flavor perfectly complements the rich maple glaze. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or warmed up later, these scones will always bring a smile to your face and a warm feeling to your kitchen.

Give this recipe a try and watch how it quickly becomes a staple in your baking repertoire. Happy baking!

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