Description of this recipe
These Savory Pumpkin Parmesan Scones are a delightful twist on the classic scone, blending the comforting flavors of pumpkin and Parmesan with aromatic sage. Perfect for a fall brunch, a savory snack, or a sophisticated addition to your Thanksgiving table, these scones are easy to make and incredibly delicious. The combination of the slightly sweet pumpkin, the salty Parmesan, and the earthy sage creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Their golden-brown crust gives way to a soft, tender interior, making them irresistible.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll adore these Savory Pumpkin Parmesan Scones for their unique flavor profile and versatility. They’re not overly sweet, making them a perfect accompaniment to soups, salads, or simply enjoyed with a pat of butter. The preparation is straightforward, requiring minimal effort, and the result is a batch of scones that are sure to impress. Plus, the addition of pumpkin makes them a seasonal treat that captures the essence of autumn. Imagine serving these warm scones on a chilly morning – they’re comforting, satisfying, and utterly delicious. The subtle hints of nutmeg and pepper add depth, while the Parmesan and sage provide a savory counterpoint that keeps you coming back for more. They are also a great way to use up leftover pumpkin puree!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1⁄2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1⁄4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 3⁄4 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1⁄4 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh sage (or 1 tablespoon dried sage)
- Optional: 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds for topping
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures that the scones bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan. Using parchment paper also makes cleanup a breeze. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you start baking, as this will help the scones rise properly.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and black pepper until well combined. Whisking these dry ingredients together ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed, which is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy texture. The nutmeg and black pepper add subtle warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile of the scones.
Step 3: Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is essential for creating flaky scones. The cold butter creates small pockets of fat within the flour mixture, which melt during baking, resulting in layers of flaky goodness. If you don’t have a pastry cutter, you can use your fingertips, but make sure the butter stays cold to prevent it from melting into the flour.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, and egg until well blended. This mixture will add moisture and richness to the scones. Ensure that the pumpkin puree is smooth and free of any lumps. The heavy cream adds a touch of decadence, while the egg helps to bind the ingredients together.
Step 5: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough scones. Gently folding the ingredients together ensures that the scones remain light and tender. A few streaks of flour are okay at this stage – you just want the ingredients to be mostly combined.
Step 6: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped sage to the mixture, folding it in until evenly distributed. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory flavor, while the sage contributes an earthy aroma. Make sure the Parmesan cheese is finely grated so that it distributes evenly throughout the dough. If using dried sage, crumble it between your fingers to release its flavor before adding it to the mixture.
Step 7: Lightly flour a clean surface, then turn the dough out onto the surface. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Flouring the surface prevents the dough from sticking and makes it easier to handle. Aim for a uniform thickness of about 1 inch to ensure that the scones bake evenly.
Step 8: Use a sharp knife or a bench scraper to cut the dough into 8 equal wedges. A sharp knife or bench scraper will make clean cuts, resulting in evenly shaped scones. If you prefer smaller scones, you can cut the dough into 10 or 12 wedges.
Step 9: Transfer the wedges to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. This allows the scones to bake evenly and prevents them from sticking together.
Step 10: If desired, sprinkle the tops with pumpkin seeds for extra flavor and crunch. Pumpkin seeds add a delightful textural element and a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients. You can also brush the tops with a little melted butter or egg wash for a golden-brown finish.
Step 11: Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the scones and check for doneness after 18 minutes. The scones should be golden brown on top and slightly firm to the touch.
Step 12: Remove the scones from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the scones on a wire rack prevents them from becoming soggy.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
These Savory Pumpkin Parmesan Scones are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Enjoy them warm with a pat of butter for a simple yet satisfying snack. They also pair beautifully with soups, salads, and stews, making them a perfect addition to a hearty meal. For a more elegant presentation, serve them as part of a brunch spread with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and fresh herbs. They also make a wonderful addition to a Thanksgiving or holiday appetizer platter.
Tips:
- Make sure your butter is very cold for the best flaky texture.
- Don’t overmix the dough – gently fold the ingredients together until just combined.
- For a richer flavor, use aged Parmesan cheese.
- Feel free to experiment with other herbs, such as rosemary or thyme.
- Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(per scone, approximate)
Calories: 250 Protein: 8g Sodium: 300mg
Conclusion
These Savory Pumpkin Parmesan Scones are a delightful and flavorful addition to any meal or gathering. Their unique blend of pumpkin, Parmesan, and sage creates a taste sensation that is both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish, these scones are sure to impress. With their easy preparation and delicious results, they are a must-try recipe for any home baker. So go ahead, bake a batch of these savory scones and treat yourself to a taste of autumn!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
A: While canned pumpkin puree is recommended for its consistent texture and moisture content, you can use fresh pumpkin puree if you prefer. Roast a small pumpkin until tender, then puree the flesh in a food processor until smooth. Make sure to drain any excess moisture from the puree before using it in the recipe.
Q2: Can I freeze these scones?
A: Yes, these scones freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Q3: What if I don’t have heavy cream? Can I use milk instead?
A: While heavy cream adds richness and moisture to the scones, you can substitute it with milk if necessary. However, the scones may not be as tender and flavorful. For best results, use whole milk or half-and-half.
Q4: Can I make these scones ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. When ready to bake, simply cut the dough into wedges and bake as directed.
Q5: What other cheeses would work well in this recipe?
A: While Parmesan cheese adds a distinct flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Gruyere, cheddar, or Asiago. Each cheese will impart its own unique flavor to the scones, so choose one that complements the pumpkin and sage.
