Autumn Apple Butter Scones

English Scones with Autumn Spiced Apple Butter

Introduction
As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like baking something that embodies the warmth and coziness of fall. Imagine sitting by the window, sipping a hot cup of tea, and indulging in these tender English scones, each bite enhanced by a spoonful of rich, spicy apple butter. I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you—it’s a real fall favorite in my kitchen! Don’t forget to subscribe and receive this delightful recipe in your inbox.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is truly a seasonal delight! It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon treat. The scones are flaky and buttery, while the homemade apple butter adds a sweet and spicy touch that captures the essence of autumn. Plus, it’s a hit with the family and a great way to welcome the fall season into your home.

Ingredients
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp baking powder
– ½ tsp salt
– ⅓ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– ¾ cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Autumn Spiced Apple Butter:
– 2 cups applesauce
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– ½ tsp ground nutmeg
– ¼ tsp ground cloves
– ¼ tsp salt

Necessary Tools
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Large mixing bowl
– Pastry cutter or fork
– Rolling pin
– Round cutter
– Medium saucepan

Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to customize! If you’re out of whole milk, try buttermilk for a tangy twist. You can also add a handful of raisins or cranberries to the dough for extra sweetness. For a savory scone, substitute the sugar with ¼ cup grated cheese and a pinch of black pepper.

See also Pumpkin Spice Muffins

Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cubed butter, using a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in sugar.
4. Whisk milk, egg, and vanilla in a small bowl. Create a well in dry ingredients and pour in the milk mixture. Mix with a fork until just combined—do not overmix.
5. Transfer dough onto a floured surface, gently knead, and roll to ¾-inch thickness. Cut scones with a round cutter and place on the baking sheet.
6. Brush tops with milk for a golden finish. Bake for 12-15 minutes.
7. For apple butter, combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until thickened, about 15-20 minutes.
8. Serve scones warm with apple butter.

Serving Suggestions
These scones are delightful on their own, but pair beautifully with clotted cream or a steaming cup of Earl Grey tea for a complete afternoon tea experience.

Pro Tips for Success
Use cold butter for the best flaky texture, and handle the dough as little as possible to prevent it from becoming tough. For a perfectly thick apple butter, ensure you cook it until it darkens and reduces.

Storing and Reheating
Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Apple butter can be refrigerated for up to two weeks.

FAQ Section
Can I freeze the scones? Yes, freeze before baking, and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Is there a substitute for all-purpose flour? Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.

Autumn Apple Butter Scones

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