If you love the cozy, festive taste of eggnog and the tender crumb of a perfectly baked scone, you are in for an absolute treat with this Fluffy Eggnog Scones Recipe. These scones are wonderfully light and airy thanks to a careful balance of ingredients and technique, infused with warm nutmeg and cinnamon for that unmistakable holiday spirit. Whether you’re gathering around for a festive brunch or simply craving a sweet moment with your tea or coffee, these scones deliver a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience that will quickly become a cherished favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s amazing about this Fluffy Eggnog Scones Recipe is how simple yet vital each ingredient is to the overall magic of the final product. Every component plays a role in the scones’ tender texture, rich flavor, or inviting aroma, making sure each bite hits all the right notes.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and lightness of the scones.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the spices.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Gives the scones their fluffy lift and airy crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors for depth and balance.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Brings that quintessential eggnog warming fragrance and flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Complements the nutmeg with a gentle spiced heat.
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed: Creates the tender, flaky texture by melting in the oven.
- 1/2 cup cold eggnog: The star ingredient that infuses the scones with creamy, seasonal richness.
- 1 large egg: Adds moisture and structure for fluffy, cohesive dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Boosts the sweet aroma and rounds out the flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon rum extract, optional: Gives a subtle warmth that complements the eggnog beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon eggnog, for brushing: Helps the scones develop a lovely golden crust.
- 2 tablespoons coarse sugar or turbinado sugar, optional topping: Adds a sparkling, sweet crunch on the outside.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Base for the irresistible glaze.
- 2–3 tablespoons eggnog, for glaze: Keeps the glaze creamy and luscious with that signature flavor.
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg, for glaze: Continues the spice theme in every delicious drizzle.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract, for glaze: Brings harmony and sweetness to the finishing touch.
How to Make Fluffy Eggnog Scones Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat so your scones won’t stick and will bake evenly. This simple step makes cleanup easier and ensures your scones come out perfectly shaped and golden.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, sea salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon until the mixture is uniform and fragrant. This blend brings together the base and the warmth of seasonal spices that define the soul of the scones.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to your dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or fingertips, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs with small pea-sized pieces of butter still visible. These little chunks of butter are responsible for those flaky, tender pockets once baked.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl or large measuring cup, whisk the cold eggnog, egg, vanilla extract, and optional rum extract until smoothly combined. This is the rich, flavorful liquid that brings the dough together and infuses the scones with that unmistakable eggnog charm.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, gently stir just until the dough comes together and looks a bit shaggy. Be careful not to overmix here—overworking the dough will toughen your scones and lose that coveted fluffiness.
Step 6: Shape and Cut the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Then, using a sharp knife or bench scraper, slice the dough into 8 equal wedges for those classic scone shapes that are perfect for sharing.
Step 7: Prepare for Baking
Arrange the wedges on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them for even heat circulation. Brush the scones lightly with eggnog, which helps them develop a golden hue, and sprinkle coarse sugar on top for a bit of sparkle and crunch if you like.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake the scones for about 15 to 18 minutes. You’re looking for them to puff up, turn lightly golden at the edges, and pass the toothpick test—clean when inserted in the center. This step transforms your dough into those irresistible fluffy delights.
Step 9: Cool Before Glazing
Let the scones cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. They should still be slightly warm when you start applying the glaze to allow it to gently soak in and form a beautiful, sweet coat.
Step 10: Make and Drizzle the Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of eggnog, a pinch of nutmeg, and vanilla extract to create a smooth, pourable glaze. If it feels too thick, a splash more eggnog will help. Drizzle this decadent glaze over your warm scones, let it set for a few minutes, and admire your tasty handiwork before diving in.
How to Serve Fluffy Eggnog Scones Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of cinnamon or an extra sprinkle of coarse sugar over the glaze adds a lovely sparkle and a hint of spice that perfectly complements these festive scones. For a bit of flair, a few toasted pecans or chopped crystallized ginger also work beautifully as garnishes.
Side Dishes
Pair your Fluffy Eggnog Scones Recipe with a steaming cup of spiced chai, hot cocoa, or freshly brewed coffee to enhance the comforting spices. For a heartier spread, fresh fruit, clotted cream, or a dollop of whipped cream makes a heavenly accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
Present these scones in a charming basket lined with a festive cloth napkin, or stack them on a tiered serving tray for a holiday brunch centerpiece. Individual serving plates with a small jar of homemade spiced jam or honey add a personal touch your guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover scones can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This helps keep the crumb soft and the glaze slightly tender. If you want to keep the glaze intact, avoid stacking them directly on top of each other.
Freezing
To enjoy later, freeze unglazed scones by wrapping each one individually in plastic wrap and placing them inside a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 3 months, ready to be thawed when you crave their delightful flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat scones gently in a warm oven at 300°F for 5 to 7 minutes, or until just warmed through. If you froze them, letting them thaw at room temperature first ensures the best texture. For a quick fix, a few seconds in the microwave also works, though the oven method keeps them fluffy and crisp.
FAQs
Can I make these scones dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and replace traditional eggnog with a plant-based eggnog alternative. Just keep in mind that flavors might vary slightly but will still be delicious.
What can I use instead of eggnog?
If eggnog isn’t handy, you can substitute with a mix of milk and a pinch of nutmeg and cinnamon for flavor. Adding a splash of vanilla extract helps mimic the emulated eggnog taste, but the authentic richness may be reduced.
How do I prevent the scones from being dry?
Using cold butter and not overmixing the dough are key to keeping your scones moist and tender. Additionally, brushing the tops with eggnog before baking locks in moisture and helps develop a lovely crust.
Can I add mix-ins like dried fruit or nuts?
Definitely! Dried cranberries, chopped pecans, or even white chocolate chips can enhance the texture and flavor. Just fold them into the dough gently after combining wet and dry ingredients to avoid overworking.
What is the best way to slice the dough?
After patting the dough into a circle, use a sharp knife or a bench scraper to cut the dough into equal wedges. A clean cut ensures even baking and that each scone keeps a nice shape.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about baking that fills your home with cozy aromas and delivers a warm, comforting taste with every bite. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this Fluffy Eggnog Scones Recipe—it’s an easy and fun way to bring a little holiday cheer into your kitchen any time of year. Once you savor that tender crumb with the perfect spice blend and luscious glaze, you’ll want to make these scones again and again.
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Fluffy Eggnog Scones Recipe
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones 1x
Description
These Fluffy Eggnog Scones are a festive and tender treat perfect for the holiday season. Infused with warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon and enriched with creamy eggnog, these scones are topped with a sweet eggnog glaze for an extra touch of decadence. Easy to make and delightfully light, they make a great breakfast or afternoon snack to enjoy with your favorite cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Scone Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup cold eggnog
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon rum extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon eggnog (for brushing)
- 2 tablespoons coarse sugar or turbinado sugar (optional topping)
Glaze Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons eggnog
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Incorporate Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the cold eggnog, egg, vanilla extract, and rum extract (if using) until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir with a spatula just until the dough comes together and looks shaggy, being careful not to overmix.
- Shape Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut the circle into 8 equal wedges.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the wedges to the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Brush the tops lightly with eggnog and sprinkle with coarse sugar if using.
- Bake Scones: Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the scones are puffed, lightly golden on the edges, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the scones to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly while you prepare the glaze.
- Make Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons eggnog, nutmeg, and vanilla for the glaze until smooth and pourable, adding an extra splash of eggnog if needed to adjust the consistency.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the glaze over the warm scones and let it set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use cold butter to ensure flaky, tender scones.
- Do not overmix the dough to keep the scones light and fluffy.
- Optional rum extract adds a lovely depth of flavor, feel free to omit if preferred.
- Coarse sugar topping gives a nice crunch and sparkle but can be skipped.
- Store leftover scones in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently before serving.
- Eggnog can be substituted with milk if unavailable, but flavor will be less rich.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
