Cinnamon Bun Scones Recipe

If you love the warm, comforting flavors of a classic cinnamon bun but want something quicker and more portable, these Cinnamon Bun Scones are exactly what you need. They’re tender, subtly sweet, and bursting with swirls of cinnamon and toasted pecans, all topped with a luscious glaze that melts perfectly over the warm scones. Each bite tastes like a delightful morning hug, making these scones the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cinnamon Bun Scones recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create the perfect texture and taste. Each ingredient plays a vital role: from the oats adding heartiness to the cinnamon bringing that beloved spicy sweetness, everything strikes a harmonious balance.

• Toasted chopped pecans: Adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
• Light brown sugar: Provides moisture and a deep caramel note essential for that cinnamon bun taste.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice that infuses every bite with warm, fragrant sweetness.
• All-purpose flour: The foundational base for the scones, giving structure and tender crumb.
• Old-fashioned rolled oats: Introduce a subtle chewiness and rustic texture.
• Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering.
• Baking powder: The leavening agent that ensures fluffy, rise-perfect scones.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter (cold, cubed): Creates the flaky, tender layers that make these scones irresistible.
• Milk: Moistens the dough and aids in tenderizing the crumb.
• Large egg (lightly beaten): Binds ingredients and adds richness.
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth and a hint of aromatic sweetness.
• Confectioners’ sugar: Key to the smooth glaze that tops each scone beautifully.

How to Make Cinnamon Bun Scones

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Begin by heating your oven to a robust 425°F (220°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This setup ensures the scones bake evenly and don’t stick, giving you that perfect golden finish.

Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Pecan Swirl

In a small bowl, mix toasted chopped pecans, light brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. This aromatic cinnamon sugar blend will be swirled into the dough later, giving each scone delightful pockets of flavor and a satisfying crunch.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Butter

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then, add your cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry blender or fork to cut the butter into the dry mixture until it looks like coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for the scones’ flaky texture – the visible butter pieces create those tender layers during baking.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients and Swirl in Cinnamon Mixture

Whisk milk, beaten egg, and vanilla extract together in a small bowl. Pour this into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until combined—overmixing can make scones tough. Next, sprinkle the cinnamon-pecan mixture over the dough and fold softly to create swirls without fully blending everything. These swirls are what make the scones so special and visually inviting.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Drop the dough by generous 1/4-cup portions onto the prepared pans, leaving about 2 inches between each so they can expand. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes until the tops turn a gorgeous golden brown and the aroma fills your kitchen with pure bliss.

Step 6: Cool and Glaze

Let the scones cool on a wire rack for about 5 minutes while you mix the glaze. Combine sifted confectioners’ sugar with 3 teaspoons of milk, adding more milk if needed to reach a smooth, pourable consistency. Drizzle generously over the warm scones – the warm glaze melts slightly, adding a sweet, shiny finish that’s impossible to resist.

How to Serve Cinnamon Bun Scones

Garnishes

To make your Cinnamon Bun Scones even more irresistible, consider topping them with a sprinkle of extra chopped pecans or a dusting of cinnamon powder. This not only enhances the visual appeal but adds an extra layer of texture and spice.

Side Dishes

These scones pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a creamy latte. For a cozy brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. The scones’ cinnamon and pecan flavors complement these lighter sides wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a delightful twist, slice the Cinnamon Bun Scones in half and layer with a smear of cream cheese or almond butter to elevate their richness. You can also serve them warm alongside a small bowl of maple syrup for dipping, adding another decadent touch to this already luscious treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow any leftover scones to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Stored at room temperature, they keep well for up to two days—perfect if you want to enjoy them over a couple of mornings.

Freezing

Cinnamon Bun Scones freeze beautifully. Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to two months, making them a great option to prep ahead and enjoy whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

To reheat, unwrap and place scones on a baking sheet in a preheated 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp again. You can also microwave them briefly, but the oven method keeps them freshest and flakiest.

FAQs

Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds make great alternatives and provide a similar crunch and flavor profile. Just toast them lightly first to bring out their aroma.

Can I make these scones dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk. The texture might shift slightly, but the scones will still be delicious.

How long do Cinnamon Bun Scones keep fresh?

Freshly baked scones are best enjoyed within two days when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature.

Is it okay to mix the cinnamon swirl fully into the dough?

For best flavor and presentation, gently swirl the cinnamon-pecan mixture rather than fully incorporating it. This creates beautiful ribbons of flavor and texture throughout the scones.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! Just double all ingredients and bake the scones on multiple baking sheets, ensuring enough space between each to allow proper rising and browning.

Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Bun Scones have quickly become a personal favorite I love sharing with friends and family. The tender crumb, the cozy cinnamon-pecan swirls, and that irresistible glaze combine for a treat that feels both indulgent and approachable. Whether you’re new to baking scones or a seasoned pro, I encourage you to try this recipe—you’ll discover a fresh way to enjoy the flavors of a cinnamon bun with all the charm of a scone. Happy baking!

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