Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones: The Best Fall-Inspired Baked Treat You’ll Ever Make

Warm Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones with Vanilla Glaze

Introduction

Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones are the ultimate cozy-season comfort food. These golden, buttery pastries are filled with tender apples, plump raisins, and warm cinnamon spice—then topped with a simple vanilla glaze. Whether you’re baking for a fall brunch, an afternoon snack, or a Thanksgiving breakfast table, this easy-to-follow recipe will win hearts. In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions, pro baking tips, storage solutions, and variations for every taste.

PART 1: Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones Recipe (Step-by-Step)

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

• All-purpose flour: Provides the base structure.
• Sugar & cinnamon: Sweetens and flavors the dough.
• Cold butter: Ensures tender, flaky layers.
• Heavy cream & egg: Adds richness and binds ingredients.
• Chopped apples: Choose tart Granny Smith or sweet Honeycrisp.
• Raisins: Add natural sweetness and chew.

Directions for Baking

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line your tray with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Cut cold butter into the mix using a pastry cutter or fingertips.
4. In a separate bowl, mix egg, cream, and vanilla.
5. Combine wet with dry just until a dough forms—don’t overmix.
6. Fold in apples and raisins gently.
7. Shape into a 1-inch circle and cut into 8 wedges.
8. Brush with cream and bake for 18–22 minutes until golden.
9. Let cool slightly before adding glaze.

PART 2: Vanilla Glaze That Takes It Over the Top

How to Make Vanilla Glaze

• Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2–3 tbsp of milk.
• Stir in ½ tsp vanilla extract.
• Whisk until smooth and drizzle over scones once they’ve cooled.

Glazing Tips for Best Results

• Let scones cool slightly before glazing to avoid melting.
• Use a spoon or piping bag for control.
• Add cinnamon to the glaze for extra flavor.

PART 3: Ingredient Variations & Substitutions

Best Apples to Use

• Granny Smith: Tart and firm, perfect for balance.
• Honeycrisp: Juicy and sweet.
• Avoid Red Delicious—too soft and watery.

Substituting Raisins or Adding Mix-ins

• Swap raisins for dried cranberries, currants, or chopped dates.
• Add walnuts or pecans for crunch.
• Use pumpkin spice instead of just cinnamon for a festive twist.

this PIN FOR LATER

PART 4: Pro Tips for Moist, Flaky Scones

Why Cold Butter Matters

• Cold butter creates steam when baked, forming flaky layers.
• Cut it into pea-sized chunks and refrigerate dough before baking.

Mixing Techniques to Avoid Dryness

• Don’t overwork the dough—stop once it comes together.
• Use heavy cream, not milk for rich, tender results.
• Bake on the center rack to avoid overbaking the bottoms.

PART 5: Storing and Freezing Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones

Best Way to Store Scones

• Store in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days.
• Refrigerate for longer storage, up to 5 days.

How to Freeze for Later

• Freeze unbaked wedges on a tray, then transfer to freezer bags.
• Bake from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to baking time.
• Glaze after baking, not before freezing.

PART 6: Serving Ideas and Pairings

Perfect Drinks to Serve With Scones

• Hot apple cider
• Chai latte or cinnamon coffee
• Black tea with honey

Great Occasions to Serve Them

• Fall brunches and holiday breakfasts
• Thanksgiving morning treat
• Cozy dessert with friends

PART 7: Troubleshooting Common Baking Mistakes

Why Are My Scones Dry?

• Overmixing or baking too long.
• Using low-fat dairy or not enough butter.

Why Don’t They Rise Properly?

• Old baking powder or overhandled dough.
• Make sure butter stays cold before baking.

PART 8: Healthier Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scone Options

Lighten It Up

• Use Greek yogurt in place of some cream.
• Substitute whole wheat flour for half of the white flour.
• Reduce sugar or skip glaze altogether.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Variations

• Use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.
• Replace butter with vegan margarine and cream with plant-based milk.
• Flax egg (1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water) works as a vegan egg substitute.

PART 9: Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones FAQ

What makes scones moist and not dry?

The key is cold butter, rich cream, and minimal mixing. Don’t overbake.

Can I use fresh apples in scones?

Yes! Fresh apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold up well when baked.

Do scones freeze well after baking?

Absolutely. Freeze them in airtight containers. Reheat at 300°F for 10 minutes.

Should I soak raisins before baking?

Soaking raisins in warm water or apple juice can make them plumper and juicier.

How do you keep scones fresh?

Store them in a sealed container and avoid the fridge unless needed. Freeze if longer storage is required.

Can I use a glaze on warm scones?

Slightly warm is okay—but too hot, and the glaze will melt off!

Conclusion

These Apple Cinnamon Raisin Scones are the essence of fall baking—tender, sweet, and perfectly spiced. Whether you follow the classic recipe or try a twist, they’re guaranteed to delight.

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