Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, comforting treat that feels like a cozy hug in pastry form, then you are going to absolutely love this Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe. Imagine tender scones studded with sweet, plump raisins and juicy apples, all wrapped up in the spicy warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg. They bake up golden brown and flaky on the outside with a soft, buttery crumb inside—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you want a little slice of happiness. This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a show-stopping bakery-style scone that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Ingredients You'll Need

All the magic starts with straightforward pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether adding flavor, texture, or that perfect golden color that makes these scones irresistible.

• Apples (diced): Fresh and juicy, they add a burst of natural sweetness and moisture to the dough.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the scones, providing structure and tenderness.
• Sugar: Just enough to bring out the sweetness and caramelization during baking.
• Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the scones rise and become light.
• Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to give a tender crumb and a nice crust.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice that infuses warmth and depth to each bite.
• Nutmeg: Adds a subtle, aromatic note that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
• Butter (cold, cubed): Key for flakiness, the butter creates those delicate layers in every scone.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and enrich the dough for a satisfying texture.
• Milk or buttermilk: Moistens the dough and lends tenderness, with buttermilk adding a slight tang.
• Raisins: Plump and sweet, they provide chewy bursts of flavor that contrast delightfully with the apples.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This warm environment ensures your scones bake evenly, developing that perfect golden crust without sticking to the pan.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Combining these upfront distributes the leavening agents and spices evenly so every bite has consistent flavor and rise.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial because those butter pieces melt during baking, creating flaky pockets and tenderness.

Step 4: Whisk Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the milk or buttermilk. The eggs enrich the dough, while the milk hydrates everything just enough to come together smoothly without being too wet.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients gently and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here because that can lead to tough scones instead of light and flaky ones.

Step 6: Fold in Apples and Raisins

Now for the best part—gently fold in the diced apples and raisins. These juicy inclusions make every bite bursting with flavor and texture, truly making this an Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe to remember.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Turn your dough out onto a floured surface and pat it into a disk about one inch thick. Cut the disk into wedges or rounds, whichever you prefer, for a charming, rustic look.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Place the shaped scones on your prepared baking sheet and slide them into the oven. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden on top and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool Slightly and Enjoy

Let the scones cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. This allows them to set so you can savor their tender crumb and rich flavors without any crumbling.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe

Garnishes

These scones are delightful as they are, but you can elevate them with a light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or even a smear of whipped cinnamon butter. Each garnish adds a little extra charm and indulgence to your Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe experience.

Side Dishes

Serve these scones alongside a cup of hot tea or robust coffee for a classic pairing. They also complement fresh fruit and yogurt beautifully if you want to round out your breakfast or brunch with something refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking a couple of scones with cream cheese or clotted cream and a spoonful of apple butter between for a visually stunning and delicious treat. They also make charming gifts—wrap up a few with a ribbon for a sweet homemade surprise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover scones keep well stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days, maintaining their moisture and flavor. If you want to retain their freshness longer, refrigeration will extend their life for up to four days.

Freezing

These scones freeze wonderfully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to three months, ready to thaw and enjoy whenever you crave that warm, cinnamon-spiced goodness.

Reheating

To reheat, pop your scones into a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or microwave them for 20 to 30 seconds until warm. This brings back their tender, flaky texture and deliciously warm aroma of apples and spices.

FAQs

Can I use a different fruit instead of apples?

Absolutely! Pears or dried cranberries work wonderfully as substitutes, offering their own unique sweetness and texture to the scones.

Do I have to use buttermilk?

Nope, regular milk works fine if you don't have buttermilk on hand. The buttermilk adds a slight tanginess and tenderness but isn’t essential.

How do I make sure the scones are flaky?

The key is using cold butter and not overmixing the dough. The cold butter creates steam pockets while baking, which leads to that lovely flaky texture.

Can I make these scones vegan?

Yes, by swapping butter for a plant-based alternative, using a flax or chia egg, and a non-dairy milk, you can make a delicious vegan version of this Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe.

What’s the best way to store leftover scones?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two, or freeze them if you want them to last longer. Avoid refrigeration if possible, as it can dry them out.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly heartwarming about homemade scones filled with apples, cinnamon, and raisins. This Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe is one I turn to again and again whenever I want a cozy, delicious treat that’s easy to whip up and impossible to resist. Trust me, once you bake these, they’ll become a beloved staple you’re excited to share with family and friends. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and bake your way to scone bliss!

Print