Name: Sourdough Pumpkin Scones for Cozy Fall Mornings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Opt for gluten-free flour if needed.); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Can be swapped with coconut sugar for a healthier version.); 1 tbsp Baking Powder (Always use fresh for the best outcome.); 1 tbsp Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend (Substitute with individual spices like cinnamon and nutmeg if necessary.); 1/2 tsp Salt (Enhances overall flavor.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Ensure it's ice-cold for optimal texture.); 1/4 cup Sour Cream (Plain Greek yogurt makes a great substitute.); 1/2 cup Sourdough Starter Discard (Can be replaced with additional sour cream if unavailable.); 1 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree (Ensure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (For a refined touch, use organic powdered sugar.); 2 tbsp Milk (Dairy-free alternatives like almond milk work well too.); 1 tbsp Maple Syrup (For a vegan option, just use extra maple syrup.)

The first chill of autumn calls for something special, and these Tender Sourdough Pumpkin Scones are just the cozy treat you need. As the spices waft through your kitchen, they set the stage for warm family gatherings or peaceful mornings with a steaming cup of coffee. Whipping up these flaky scones is a delightful way to utilize your sourdough starter discard while providing a healthy breakfast option that’s both family-friendly and packed with the seasonal taste of canned pumpkin puree. Plus, they’re quick to make and even easier to enjoy fresh from the oven! Are you ready to fill your home with the comforting aroma of fall?

Why You’ll Love These Sourdough Pumpkin Scones

Cozy Atmosphere: The warm spices and pumpkin aroma will transform your kitchen into a fall haven, perfect for family gatherings or relaxed mornings.
Healthy Twist: Packed with wholesome ingredients, these scones are a delightful and nutritious breakfast option that your loved ones will adore.
Quick Prep: With minimal steps, you can whip these up in no time—ideal for busy weekends!
Flexible Variations: Feeling adventurous? Try adding chocolate chips or a cream cheese glaze for a sweeter treat! Plus, if you love experimental breakfasts, you might also enjoy these Sourdough Discard Pancakes.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Freeze some for later and have fresh-baked goodness ready whenever you want to indulge. Don’t miss out on this perfect fall recipe!

Sourdough Pumpkin Scones Ingredients

For the Scone Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the scones; opt for gluten-free flour if needed.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; can be swapped with coconut sugar for a healthier version.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure the scones rise well; always use fresh for the best outcome.
Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend – Infuses warm, cozy flavors; substitute with individual spices like cinnamon and nutmeg if necessary.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
Unsalted Butter – Contributes to the scone’s richness and flakiness; ensure it’s ice-cold for optimal texture.
Sour Cream – Adds moisture with a slight tang; plain Greek yogurt makes a great substitute.
Sourdough Starter Discard – Provides a unique tangy flavor; can be replaced with additional sour cream if unavailable.
Canned Pumpkin Puree – The base flavor of the scones; ensure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.

For the Optional Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze; for a refined touch, use organic powdered sugar.
Milk – Helps achieve a smooth consistency; dairy-free alternatives like almond milk work well too.
Maple Syrup – Adds rich flavor; for a vegan option, just use extra maple syrup to sweeten!

These sourdough pumpkin scones are not just delicious; they’re also a wonderful way to cozy up your mornings this fall!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sourdough Pumpkin Scones

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking, ensuring an easy release for your freshly baked sourdough pumpkin scones. This setup will help create a beautifully golden bottom for your scones.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice blend, and salt. This combination not only adds flavor but also provides the structure needed for the scones. Ensure the ingredients are well blended, as this forms the very base of your scones.

Step 3: Prepare the Butter
Dice the ice-cold unsalted butter into small cubes, and add it to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs, with some pea-sized chunks remaining. This step is crucial for achieving the flakiness in the texture of your sourdough pumpkin scones.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Next, add the sour cream, sourdough starter discard, and canned pumpkin puree to the mixture. Gently fold everything together until just combined, taking care not to overwork the dough. The goal is a cohesive mixture that retains a light and airy structure—this will give your scones that tender consistency.

Step 5: Shape the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it just enough to bring it together, then shape it into a round disc about 1-inch thick. Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the disc into 8-10 wedges. This sharp cut will help shape your sourdough pumpkin scones beautifully while ensuring they rise evenly in the oven.

Step 6: Bake the Scones
Carefully place the wedges onto your prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced out to allow for expansion. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are beautifully golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The warm aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling irresistible scone goodness.

Step 7: (Optional) Prepare the Glaze
If you choose to add a glaze, mix powdered sugar, milk, and maple syrup in a small bowl until smooth. Once the sourdough pumpkin scones have cooled for a few minutes, drizzle the glaze over the top for an extra touch of sweetness that complements their warm, spiced flavors beautifully.

Expert Tips for Sourdough Pumpkin Scones

Keep Butter Cold: Make sure your butter is ice-cold to ensure your scones are light and flaky. If it begins to warm, refrigerate it before using.
Don’t Overmix: Avoid overworking the dough, as this can result in tough scones. Gently mix until just combined for the best texture in your sourdough pumpkin scones.
Use Fresh Baking Powder: For maximum rise and fluffiness, check that your baking powder is fresh. Old leavening agents can lead to denser scones.
Precise Cutting: When shaping your scones, use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut cleanly through the dough. This helps them rise evenly and maintain their shape.
Optimal Baking Time: Keep an eye on your scones as they bake, as oven temperatures can vary. They should be golden brown on top—test doneness with a toothpick to be sure!

Make Ahead Options

These sourdough pumpkin scones are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a cozy breakfast any day of the week! You can prepare the scone dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the dry ingredients and incorporate the cold butter, then refrigerate the mixture until ready to bake. Alternatively, you can shape the scones and place them on a baking sheet, covering and refrigerating them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat the oven and pop them in without thawing, extending the baking time by a few minutes if necessary. For longer-lasting freshness, consider freezing both unbaked and baked scones for up to 3 months. This way, you’ll always have a warm, delectable treat on hand, just as delicious as when freshly made!

Sourdough Pumpkin Scones Variations

Feel free to personalize these delightful scones to suit your tastes and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, ensuring a delicious option for those with gluten sensitivities. They’ll still come out tender and flaky!
Healthier Sweetener: Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar to add a touch of caramel flavor and decrease the glycemic index. It’s a lovely substitute for a healthier sweet kick.
Spice It Up: Play with your favorite spices! Add ground ginger or allspice for an extra layer of warmth, making these scones irresistible for spice lovers.
Fruit-Filled: Toss in some dried cranberries or chopped nuts like walnuts for added texture and flavor. Their tartness or crunch pairs beautifully with the scone’s sweetness.
Cream Cheese Glaze: For an elegant drizzle, combine cream cheese with maple syrup for a rich, tangy topping that’s simply divine. It elevates the scone to something spectacular!
Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to your dough for an unexpected kick of heat that complements the sweetness of the pumpkin.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip: Fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips for a sweet surprise that’ll delight both kids and adults alike. These provide a chocolatey twist that even the pickiest eaters will love.
Make It Ahead: If you’re interested in more convenient breakfast options, consider making a batch of these delightful Sourdough Discard Pancakes too! They’re perfect when paired with the scones for a breakfast feast.

Each of these variations allows you to explore different flavors while creating cherished moments with your family around the breakfast table. Enjoy this adaptable recipe as you embrace the flavors of fall!

How to Store and Freeze Sourdough Pumpkin Scones

Room Temperature: Store baked scones in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They will remain deliciously soft and ready for enjoyment!

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate scones to prolong freshness for about 5 days. Just wrap them tightly to prevent drying.

Freezer: Freeze either baked or unbaked scones for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper for easy access.

Reheating: To enjoy scones at their best, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will restore their flaky texture and warm up those comforting flavors!

What to Serve with Tender Sourdough Pumpkin Scones

Delight in creating a cozy morning spread that perfectly complements the warm, spiced aroma of your freshly baked scones.

Coffee or Chai Tea: A hot cup of coffee or a spiced chai tea enhances the scone’s flavors and adds warmth to your morning routine.
Creamy Butter: A pat of rich butter melts into the tender scone, adding an indulgent creaminess that balances the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A sweet drizzle of maple syrup brings out the scone’s earthy flavors, making every bite a delightful experience.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad adds a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the scones’ spiced flavors.
Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits offers a creamy, crunchy complement to the fluffy texture of the scones.

Pairing these scrumptious scones with seasonal favorites creates a lovely, heartwarming breakfast that invites the entire family to the table.

Sourdough Pumpkin Scones Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using pure canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor of your scones. Look for a brand that lists just “pumpkin” on the label for the best results.

How should I store my sourdough pumpkin scones?
Store your baked scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to stay fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for about 5 days. Just make sure they are wrapped tightly to avoid drying out!

Can I freeze sourdough pumpkin scones?
Absolutely! You can freeze either baked or unbaked scones for up to 3 months. For unbaked scones, place them on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them right from the freezer into the oven—no need to thaw!

What should I do if my scones turn out dense?
If you find your scones are dense, it could be due to overmixing the dough or using old baking powder. Make sure to mix until just combined and check that your baking powder is fresh. A light hand in mixing helps keep them tender and flaky!

Can I make these scones gluten-free?
Yes! For a gluten-free version, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your baking powder is also gluten-free. The texture might differ slightly but should still be delicious!

Are there any allergens I should be aware of?
These sourdough pumpkin scones contain gluten and dairy due to the all-purpose flour and sour cream. For a dairy-free option, use plain coconut yogurt instead of sour cream. Always check labels for allergens if you’re serving those with sensitivities!