Easy Apple Scones with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, homemade treat that’s absolutely bursting with fall vibes, then you’re in for a real delight. I’m excited to share my Easy Apple Scones with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe that’s become my go-to for breakfast, afternoon tea, or just when you need a little comfort in your day. These scones strike the perfect balance between tender crumb and tender apples, topped with a sweet cinnamon glaze that makes them downright irresistible. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be sneaking back to the kitchen for seconds!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Easy Apple Scones with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe is all in the ingredients working together. The cold butter creates those lovely flaky layers, while fresh shredded apple gives each bite bursts of juicy sweetness and texture, and the cinnamon glaze ties everything together with a cozy, spiced finish.

• All-purpose flour: Make sure it’s fresh; I like to sift it before mixing for extra-light scones.
• Granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness without overpowering flavors.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice that brings warmth and depth.
• Ground cloves or allspice (optional): Tiny pinch adds a hint of festive aroma, but totally optional.
• Baking powder: Don’t substitute with baking soda here; it’s what helps the scones puff up beautifully.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Frozen unsalted butter: Key to flaky texture—use frozen and grate it in!
• Cold heavy cream: Helps bind the dough and adds richness.
• Large egg (cold): Adds tenderness and structure.
• Peeled and shredded apple: I love Granny Smith for tartness, but use what you have on hand.
• Cinnamon sugar (sugar + cinnamon): A sprinkle on top before baking gives a lovely sparkle and crunch.
• Confectioners’ sugar: For the smooth, sweet glaze.
• Vanilla extract: Simple addition that rounds out the glaze flavor.
• Milk or heavy cream: To thin the glaze perfectly for drizzling.

Variations

I love how versatile this Easy Apple Scones with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe can be. Once you nail this basic version, don’t hesitate to tweak it to fit your taste or dietary needs. Trust me, playing around with flavors here is half the fun!

• Gluten-free option: I’ve swapped the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend with good success; expect a slightly denser scone.
• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch and a toasty flavor my family loves.
• Fruit swaps: Pears or diced peaches work wonderfully in place of apples for a seasonal twist.
• Spice it up: Swap cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice in fall for a cozy vibe.

How to Make Easy Apple Scones with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, sugar, cinnamon, any optional spices like cloves or allspice, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. This ensures your scones have an even flavor and that the baking powder is well distributed. I usually take a moment here—it’s such a satisfying step that sets the stage for success.

Step 2: Incorporate Cold Butter

Here’s a little trick I discovered: using a box grater, shred frozen butter right into your dry ingredients. The tiny bits melt into the dough as it bakes, giving you those beautiful flaky layers. Avoid overworking the butter—keep it cold until right before grating to keep that flakiness.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients and Add Apples

Whisk the heavy cream and egg together in a separate bowl. Adding these cold helps keep the butter from melting too soon. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients, then fold in the freshly shredded apple. The apple’s moisture adds tender juiciness to each bite, so don’t skip it!

Step 4: Bring the Dough Together

Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to gently mix until large crumbs form. Then, quickly use your hands to gather it into a loose ball. Don’t overmix—if your dough feels dry and won’t hold together, add extra heavy cream one tablespoon at a time; if it’s too wet, dust with more flour. This balance is key to perfect scones.

Step 5: Shape and Chill

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and pat it into an 8-inch round disc. I like using a bench scraper for this step because it’s less messy. Cut the dough into 8 equal triangular scones and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for extra crunch and flavor. Then, chill them in the fridge for about 15 minutes—this helps keep the butter cold so you get that flaky texture.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and once it beeps, wait an extra 5 minutes to ensure it’s good and hot. This really helps scones rise quickly and get those lovely golden edges. Bake for 20-22 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Let them cool on the pan briefly before moving to a wire rack for glazing.

Step 7: Make and Drizzle the Cinnamon Glaze

Whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, milk or heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this over the warm scones and watch it melt slightly into all those nooks and crannies—so good! You can enjoy them warm or let the glaze harden to serve at room temperature.

How to Serve Easy Apple Scones with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

I usually add a light dusting of extra cinnamon sugar on top of the glaze for a bit of sparkle and crunch. Sometimes, I sprinkle finely chopped toasted pecans over the glaze for an added nutty crunch—gives it a lovely texture and flavor lift you don’t expect!

Side Dishes

To keep it simple, a cup of freshly brewed black tea or cinnamon-spiced coffee pairs beautifully with these scones. For a heartier spread, I like serving them alongside creamy scrambled eggs or a light fruit salad for balanced brunch vibes.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I arrange the scones in a circle on a rustic wooden board, drizzling a little extra glaze over them and garnishing with thin apple slices and cinnamon sticks. It makes a stunning centerpiece that invites everyone to grab one (or two!). Layering with fresh flowers or autumn leaves adds a warm seasonal touch too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually keep leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They stay wonderfully soft and delicious. If you know you won’t finish them fast, refrigeration stretches their life but may dry them out slightly—just bring them back to room temp before serving.

Freezing

This Easy Apple Scones with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe freezes like a dream. After baking, cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They keep well for up to 3 months. When I want one, I just thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven.

Reheating

For that fresh-baked taste, I pop the scones in a 350°F oven for about 7-10 minutes or microwave them for 20-30 seconds if I’m in a rush. Adding a tiny dab of butter on top before reheating amps up the moistness and richness, which I definitely recommend.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Apple Scones with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s the kind of treat that makes any morning feel a little brighter and any lazy afternoon feel more indulgent. I love how straightforward it is, yet it consistently delivers those soft, buttery layers with tender apples and that cozy cinnamon kick. I hope you give this recipe a try soon — bake a batch, pour yourself a cup of tea, and enjoy that perfect moment when everything tastes just right. You deserve it!

Print