Apple Scones with Spiced Drizzle: An Ideal Comforting Autumn Recipe
### Apple Scones with Spiced Glaze: An Ideal Cozy Autumn Recipe
As the foliage changes and the air gets brisk, nothing compares to the comfort of warm, freshly baked scones that capture the cozy essence of fall. Apple scones with spiced glaze provide a wonderful indulgence that melds the sweetness of apples with the soothing tastes of cinnamon and nutmeg. This recipe is excellent for a relaxing weekend brunch or a midday snack paired with tea.
#### Ingredients
**For the Scones:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 1 cup peeled and chopped apples (approximately 1 large apple)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**For the Spiced Glaze:**
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2-3 tablespoons milk (or as necessary for texture)
– A pinch of salt
#### Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
2. **Prepare the Dry Ingredients:**
In a sizable mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg by whisking.
3. **Incorporate the Butter:**
Introduce the cold, cubed butter into the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. **Add the Apples:**
Carefully fold in the chopped apples, ensuring they are uniformly spread throughout the mixture.
5. **Mix the Wet Ingredients:**
In another bowl, whisk the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract together. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just incorporated. Take care not to overmix; the dough should be a bit sticky.
6. **Shape the Scones:**
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and lightly knead it a few times until it forms a cohesive mass. Flatten the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut the circle into wedges (like a pizza) or use a round cutter for individual scones.
7. **Bake:**
Arrange the scones on the prepared baking sheet with about 2 inches of space between them. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
8. **Prepare the Spiced Glaze:**
While the scones bake, mix the powdered sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, milk, and salt in a small bowl. Adjust the milk until you achieve your preferred glaze consistency.
9. **Glaze the Scones:**
After removing the scones from the oven and allowing them to cool slightly, drizzle the spiced glaze on top of each scone.
10. **Serve:**
Savor the apple scones warm or at room temperature alongside your favorite autumn beverage.
#### Tips for Success
– **Apple Variety:** Combine sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for a richer flavor profile.
– **Storage:** Keep leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for extended preservation.
– **Customization:** Feel free to mix in nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or dried fruits like cranberries for extra texture and flavor.
### Conclusion
Apple scones with spiced glaze are a delightful way to embrace the flavors of fall. Their soft crumb and sweet, spiced topping render them a comforting treat that will surely satisfy family and friends. Whether enjoyed right from the oven or as part of a cozy gathering, these scones are an exceptional element to your autumn baking collection.
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