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Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Ready to Serve

Get cozy with Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones!

Breakfast is always better with something sweet. Try my Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - they're easy, and tasty...and no one will know their gluten free!

Warm Up Your Morning with Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of pumpkin spice to bring a little warmth to your day. These Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones are the perfect way to celebrate waking up, combining the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with a flaky, tender texture that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. Best of all, they’re so delicious no one will guess they’re gluten-free!

Reinventing Classic Recipes

One of my passions is reinventing classic recipes so they can be gluten-free. I start with something we all love to eat but thought we could never enjoy again. With a few simple adjustments, I transform beloved favorites into gluten-free delights that are not only accessible but also incredibly easy to make. These pumpkin scones are a perfect example of that philosophy.

Discovering Gluten-Free Baking

When I first explored gluten-free baking, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple it is to create delightful treats without sacrificing flavor. By swapping out traditional wheat flour for a gluten-free blend—whether store-bought or homemade—you can achieve a texture and taste that rivals classic recipes. The key is to handle the dough gently, ensuring that your scones come out light and flaky.

The Allure of Pumpkin Scones

The aroma of pumpkin and spices filling your kitchen as these scones bake is an experience that warms the heart. The combination of pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger creates a comforting flavor profile that is perfect any time of year. Each bite offers a burst of warmth that is ideal for those chilly mornings or quiet afternoons spent indoors.

Ingredients

These ingredients come together to make Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones that are both flavorful and perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.

  1. Gluten-Free Flour:
    Flaky and tender gluten-free crust made from a mix of gluten-free flours, butter, and a touch of sweetener. This provides the perfect base for the galette, offering a nutty flavor. Follow the instructions found here for my gluten free pie dough recipe.
  2. Almond Flour:
    Adds a subtle nutty flavor and richness to the gluten-free crust. Almond flour also helps create a tender texture while keeping the dough sturdy enough to hold the filling.
  3. Tapioca Starch:
    A key ingredient for binding and elasticity in gluten-free baking, tapioca starch helps create a pliable dough and contributes to the crust's crispness once baked.
  4. Xanthan Gum
    Essential for gluten-free recipes, xanthan gum acts as a stabilizer and binder, mimicking the elasticity of gluten to ensure the dough holds together beautifully.
  5. Unsalted Butter:
    Cold butter is key for creating flaky layers in the scones. Cut it into small cubes before mixing.
  6. Brown Sugar:
    Brown sugar adds moisture, depth of flavor, and a subtle molasses undertone to the recipe. The natural moisture in brown sugar contributes to a softer, more tender baked good.
  7. Spices:
    Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Allspice, Cloves: A warming blend of spices that adds complexity, depth, and aromatic richness to the recipe. Each spice contributes a unique flavor profile.
  8. Black Pepper:
    A surprising addition that adds a subtle heat and complexity to the spice blend, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
  9. Pumpkin Puree:
    Provides moisture, natural sweetness, and a rich, earthy flavor. It also contributes to the nutritional value and creates a moist texture.
  10. Egg:
    Acts as a binding agent, provides structure, adds moisture, and helps create a rich, cohesive batter. Room temperature eggs incorporate more easily.
  11. Baking Powder:
    Ensures the scones rise beautifully and have a light texture.
  12. Salt:
    Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the scones.
  13. Buttermilk or Sour Cream:
    Adds tanginess, moisture, and helps activate the baking powder. The acidity also contributes to a tender crumb.
  14. Vanilla Extract:
     A touch of vanilla extract adds warmth and depth to the scones.
  15. Optional Mix-Ins:
    Dried fruit, berries, baking chips (chocolate, etc.), or citrus zest can be added for extra flavor.
  16. Optional Glaze:
    Make with powdered sugar, cream and vanilla (or maple extract). Adds that something special to take your scones over the top!
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Getting Glazed

Why You’ll Love These Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones

These scones are quick and easy to make, perfect for busy mornings or cozy weekends. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea and can be customized with mix-ins like chopped pecans or dried cranberries.

Plus, they’re gluten-free, making them a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions.

A Recipe That Brings People Together

Food is about connection, and these scones are no exception. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them solo, their rustic charm and seasonal flavors make every bite feel special. They’re the kind of treat that turns ordinary mornings into cherished moments.

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Rest Time 30 mins
Total Time 1 hr 15 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 350  F
Servings: 12
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Description

Sweet and warm and of course Gluten-Free, these Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones are a great breakfast addition. You can make the night before or right before breakfast!

Ingredients
    Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones
  • 250 g Gluten-Free Flour (If your gluten free flour blend contains xanthan gum do not add any additional. See notes below.)
  • 24 g Almond Flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp Tapioca Starch (You can substitute corn starch if you cannot find tapioca starch)
  • 1/3 cup Light Brown Sugar
  • 2 1/2 tsp Baking Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Xanthan Gum (Only add if your gluten free flour does not contain xanthan gum.)
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt (See note below.)
  • 3/4 tsp Dried Ginger
  • 1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp Allspice
  • 1/4 tsp Cloves
  • 1 pinch Ground Black Pepper
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Cold)
  • 1/2 cup Optional add-ins (Sweet: dried fruits, berries, baking chips (choc, etc.) Savory: cheese, peppers, onion, bacon, sausage, herbs (1 tsp only))
  • 1 large Egg
  • 1 tsp Gluten-Free Vanilla Extract
  • 1/4 cup Buttermilk or Sour Cream
  • 1/2 cup Pumpkin Puree
    • Glaze
  • 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Or Maple Extract)
  • 1 tbsp Heavy Cream or Half & Half
Instructions
    Gluten Free Scones
  1. 1
    Before you begin
    • Gather your ingredients.
    • Preheat the oven to 350°F.
    • Line a baking sheet with parchment and set aside.
    • Cup butter into ¼” pieces and freeze for 11 minutes - alternatively grate frozen stick of cold butter using a box grater.

    Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Grating Butter

  2. 2
    Prepare dry ingredientsGluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Dry Ingredients
    • Mix together all dry ingredients in a medium bowl.
    • Using your fingers mix the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture is crumbly with pea-sized. (Or pulse together in a food processor - 20 pulses until crumbly.)
    • Set aside.

    Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Dry Ingredients Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Dry Ingredients Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Dry Ingredients Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Adding Butter

  3. 3
    Prepare wet ingredients
    • Whisk together the egg, buttermilk (or sour cream), vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree in a small bowl.
    • Set aside.

    Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Wet Ingredients Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Wet Ingredients  Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Wet IngredientsGluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Wet Ingredients

  4. 4
    Prepare the dough
    • Add the wet ingredients to the butter and dry ingredient bowl, stirring until you have a cohesive and sticky dough. 
    • Place on a gluten-free floured surface or a surface lined with plastic wrap.
    • Form into a ball, wrap with plastic wrap and rest in the refrigerator at least 30 minutes.
    • Remove the dough from the refrigerator and place on a gluten-free floured surface or a surface lined with plastic wrap.
    • Using your fingers, pat out to about 1 in. thick. Do not roll out as the dough is sticky.
    • Cut into wedges or using a 3” biscuit cutter cut into circles.
    • Place the wedges or circles onto the lined baking sheet.
    • Optional: brush with egg or milk wash and sprinkle with sugar.
    • Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown.
    • After removing from the oven, let rest until cool.

    Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Mixing Wet and Dry Ingredients Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Mixing Wet and Dry Ingredients Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Mixing Wet and Dry Ingredients Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Preparing DoughGluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Preparing Dough

  5. 5
    Prepare the glaze
    • Add powdered sugar, vanilla and cream to a small bowl.
    • Stir until incorporated.
    • Drizzle over cooled scones.
    • Let the glaze firm up on the scones before serving...if you can wait.

    Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - cooling on the counter Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Getting Glazed Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones - Ready to Serve

Note

Gluten-Free Flours

When it comes to baking gluten-free, the type of flour you use can significantly impact the texture and flavor of your final product. Here are some important tips regarding gluten-free flours for your Gluten-Free Banana Muffins recipe:

1. Homemade Flour Blend

I use a custom gluten-free flour blend that I make myself, which weighs approximately 140 grams per cup. This blend typically includes a mix of gluten-free flours such as white and brown rice flour, potato starch, tapioca starch, sorghum and milk powder, providing a balanced texture and flavor for baking.

2. Store-Bought Gluten-Free Flours

If you prefer to use a store-bought gluten-free flour blend, it's crucial to check the packaging for the weight per cup, as this can vary between brands. Each manufacturer may have a different formulation, which affects the density and weight of their flour.

Here are several that are available from Amazon: 

None of these flours contain xanthan gum. So if your recipe calls for xanthan gum, omit the extra xanthan if using one of these blends. All of the manufacturers promote these products as a one-to-one replacement.

3. Measuring for Accuracy

For the most accurate results, I highly recommend using a digital food scale to measure your gluten-free flour. Measuring by weight ensures that you have the correct amount, leading to more consistent and successful baking outcomes. This method eliminates the variability that can come from measuring by volume, especially with gluten-free flours, which can be compacted or aerated differently.

By paying attention to these details, you'll set yourself up for success in creating a delicious and moist Gluten-Free Banana Muffins. Happy baking!

Kosher Salt 

You can use kosher salt in this recipe; however, the crystal of table salt and kosher salt are not the same. So a teaspoon of one is not the same as a teaspoon of the other. Here are equivalents for two commonly available kosher salt brands:

To Replace: 1 teaspoon table salt

  • 2 teaspoon diamond Crystal Kosher Salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Morton Kosher Salt
Keywords: Gluten-Free Pumpkin Scones, Gluten-Free, Pumpkin Scones, Sweet Scones, breakfast, tea
Read it online: https://stevesinthekitchen.com/recipe/gluten-free-pumpkin-scones/
Stephen Visintainer
Home Cook & Blogger

I'm a self-trained, home cook focused on reinventing recipes…making them gluten-free (if they aren’t already.) I started this journey several years ago after my wife started experiencing difficulties eating foods that contain gluten. 

Thank you for visiting my site.