Cinnamon Apple Scones are warm, comforting, and packed with the cozy flavors of fresh apples and aromatic cinnamon. These tender, buttery scones have a soft interior with slightly crisp edges, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat with tea or coffee. The sweet apple pieces combined with cinnamon create a classic fall-inspired flavor that feels both homemade and bakery-quality.
Cinnamon Apple Scones Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg, cold
- 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk or heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (about 130g) apple, peeled and diced small (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp preferred)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (for apples)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp coarse sugar (turbinado or demerara, for topping)
- Optional: extra cinnamon to dust on top before baking
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Peel and dice the apple into small, even pieces (about 1/4-inch cubes). Toss with 1/2 tsp cinnamon and 1 tsp lemon juice in a small bowl. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingertips, cut the butter in until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs with some pea-sized chunks.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, buttermilk or cream, and vanilla extract. Pour into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined.
- Fold in the cinnamon-lemon apple pieces, being careful not to overwork the dough. If sticky, sprinkle in a tablespoon more flour.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into 8 wedges.
- Place wedges on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each. Freeze the tray for 10 minutes for flakier scones.
- Brush tops with extra cream or milk. Sprinkle with coarse sugar and a dusting of cinnamon.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, until tops are golden and edges are crisp. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm.
Health Benefits
- Apples provide fiber and antioxidants, which support digestion and overall health.
- Cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar levels and adds natural warmth and flavor.
- Eggs contribute protein, helping make the scones more satisfying.
- Homemade baked goods allow you to avoid preservatives and control ingredients.
