Description

Savory Pumpkin Parmesan Scones combine the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the sharp, nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese, offering a crispy exterior and tender interior for a perfect snack or brunch treat. These scones are simple to make using pantry staples and can be customized with herbs and spices to suit your taste, making them an elegant yet comforting seasonal delight.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Fat

6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed (or coconut oil for vegan)

Cheese and Herbs

3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (or sharp cheddar/gouda as variation)
1–2 teaspoons fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, chopped (optional)

Wet Ingredients

3/4 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan)
1/4 cup milk or buttermilk (use dairy-free alternative if desired)

Instructions

Prepare Your Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend), baking powder, and salt until well combined to ensure even rising and seasoning.
Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter (or coconut oil) to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, incorporate it until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces remaining for flakiness.
Mix in Parmesan and Herbs: Fold in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and any chosen fresh herbs evenly throughout the crumbly dough for flavorful bursts in every bite.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, egg (or flax egg), and milk or buttermilk (or dairy-free alternative), adding moisture and richness.
Form the Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix and gently fold using a spatula just until the dough begins to come together. Avoid overmixing to keep the scones tender.
Shape and Cut: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a 1-inch thick circle, then cut into wedges or rounds with a sharp knife or biscuit cutter.
Bake to Perfection: Place the scones on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked.

Notes

Keep butter cold until the last moment to create flaky layers.
Stir the dough just enough to combine; avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
Grate Parmesan cheese fresh for better flavor and melt quality.
Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid dense scones.
Add herbs gradually and taste-test dough for balanced flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 scone
Calories: 180
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 290mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: pumpkin scones, Parmesan scones, savory scones, autumn recipes, brunch, snack, gluten-free scones, vegetarian