If you are craving a delicious treat that warms you up from the inside out, look no further than these delightful Apple Cinnamon Scones. They boast a tender, flaky texture infused with cozy spices, making them an ideal plant-based breakfast or snack any time of day. With every bite, the apples add a juicy freshness while the cinnamon brings that perfect touch of warmth. These scones are truly irresistible and easy to make, promising smiles and satisfied appetites all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flaky and Tender: Each scone has a perfect crumb that melts in your mouth.
Warm Spices: A comforting blend of cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg brings cozy vibes to every bite.
Plant-Based Goodness: Made without any animal products, yet still rich and satisfying.
Quick and Simple: The recipe uses common ingredients with straightforward steps ideal for busy mornings.
Versatile Snack: Perfect for breakfast, teatime, or an anytime treat that’s easy to grab and enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses a handful of simple ingredients that work harmoniously to create the perfect Apple Cinnamon Scones. Each component plays its role, whether it’s adding moisture, tenderness, flavor, or that signature golden color.

All-Purpose Flour: The base that gives the scones their structure and soft crumb.
Natural Plant-Based Butter: Provides flakiness and rich flavor while keeping the scones tender.
Brown Sugar (natural): Adds sweetness and a touch of caramel depth to the dough.
Baking Powder: Gives lift and lightness for that delicate texture.
Ground Cinnamon (natural): The star spice that fills every bite with warmth and comfort.
Ground Nutmeg (natural): A subtle complement enhancing the cinnamon note.
Chopped Apples: Fresh, juicy chunks spread throughout for bursts of fruity flavor.
Plant-Based Milk: Keeps the dough moist and binds ingredients seamlessly.
Vanilla Extract (natural): Elevates sweetness and enriches the aroma.
Natural Gelling Agent: Helps to maintain moisture and perfect consistency without heaviness.

Variations for Apple Cinnamon Scones

Feel free to personalize your Apple Cinnamon Scones to fit your taste buds or dietary needs. These adaptable variations make it easy to keep things interesting or cater to what’s on hand.

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch.
Vegan-Friendly: Use a plant-based yogurt in place of milk to increase tenderness and moisture.
Spiced Up: Include a pinch of ground cloves or cardamom to deepen the spice profile.
Sweet Glaze: Drizzle with a light icing made from powdered sugar and plant-based milk for extra sweetness.
Extra Fruity: Mix in dried cranberries or raisins to balance the apples with tart bursts.

Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Scones Recipe

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Scones

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Chop the apples into small pieces and mix together all your dry ingredients, including the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and natural gelling agent, in a large bowl.

Step 2: Cut in the Plant-Based Butter

Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, gently incorporate cold, cubed plant-based butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter visible.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients and Apples

In a separate bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk and vanilla extract (natural). Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples carefully to distribute evenly without overmixing.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Lightly flour your work surface and turn out the dough. Pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 equal wedges. Transfer the wedges to your prepared baking tray, spacing them slightly apart to allow rising.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Scones

Keep Butter Cold: Use chilled plant-based butter to achieve that flaky texture.
Do Not Overmix: Stir just until combined to avoid tough scones.
Fresh Apples Are Key: Choose crisp, tart apples for the best flavor and texture balance.
Use Natural Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg enhance the aroma remarkably.
Brush with Plant-Based Milk: Lightly coating the scones before baking helps create a beautiful golden crust.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Scones

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar (natural) or a light drizzle of maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness and a lovely visual appeal to your scones.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a bowl of warmed stewed apples for a wholesome breakfast experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a tea party, place scones on a tiered stand with a small bowl of plant-based cream and fruit preserves, inviting guests to customize each bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain freshness without drying out.

Freezing

Wrap individual scones tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to one month; thaw them at room temperature before reheating.

Reheating

Warm scones in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5-7 minutes to revive their flaky texture and bring back that just-baked charm.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! Varieties like Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp all work well, each bringing its unique balance of sweetness and tartness.

Is it possible to make these scones gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend, you can enjoy these scones without compromising texture.

Do I have to use plant-based butter?

For the best texture and flavor balancing moistness and flakiness, plant-based butter is ideal, but some plant oils can work with adjustments.

Can I add other spices besides cinnamon?

Certainly! Nutmeg and cloves complement cinnamon beautifully, and even cardamom can add an exotic twist.

How do I make the scones less sweet?

Reduce the brown sugar slightly or skip any sweet glaze toppings while keeping the warming spices prominent.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the comforting aroma and tender bite of Apple Cinnamon Scones fresh from the oven. This easy, plant-based recipe invites you to enjoy cozy mornings and sweet moments any time you want. Give them a try and discover your new favorite way to brighten the day with simple, wholesome ingredients that shine in every bite!

Apple Cinnamon Scones

Author: Brian
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8 scones 1x
Diet: Plant-Based, Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Delight in these tender, flaky Apple Cinnamon Scones infused with warm cinnamon and nutmeg spices. Perfectly plant-based and easy to make, these scones combine juicy chopped apples with a comforting touch of natural sweetness and spice, making a versatile breakfast or snack that warms you from the inside out.

Instructions

Prepare Your Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Chop the apples into small pieces. In a large bowl, mix together all dry ingredients: flour, natural brown sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon (natural), ground nutmeg (natural), and natural gelling agent.
Cut in the Plant-Based Butter: Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, gently incorporate the cold, cubed plant-based butter into the dry mixture until the texture resembles coarse crumbs with visible pea-sized bits of butter.
Add Wet Ingredients and Apples: In a separate bowl, whisk together plant-based milk and vanilla extract (natural). Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently until just combined. Carefully fold in the chopped apples evenly without overmixing.
Shape the Dough: Lightly flour your work surface and turn out the dough. Pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 equal wedges. Place the wedges on the prepared baking tray, spacing them slightly apart for rising.
Bake Until Golden: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Keep the plant-based butter cold to achieve a flaky texture.
Do not overmix the dough to avoid tough scones.
Use fresh, crisp apples for the best flavor and texture contrast.
Freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg (natural) enhance aroma and warmth.
Lightly brush scones with plant-based milk before baking to achieve a golden crust.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American