Apple Cinnamon Scones Recipe

Gluten-free flour: A special type of flour that does not contain gluten, suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the scones.

Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the scones rise.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the scones.

Ground cinnamon: Provides a warm, spicy flavor that complements the apples.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the scones.

Apple: Adds natural sweetness and a bit of texture.

Milk: Helps to bind the ingredients together.

Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle, sweet flavor that enhances the overall taste.

When incorporating the cold butter into the gluten-free flour mixture, ensure that the butter remains as cold as possible. This can be achieved by cutting the butter into small pieces and then placing it back in the refrigerator for a few minutes before adding it to the dry ingredients. The cold butter will create pockets of steam as it melts during baking, resulting in a flakier texture for your scones.

• gluten-free flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour provides a nutty flavor and a similar texture, making it a great gluten-free alternative.

• sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor, making it a healthier alternative.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Mixing ¼ teaspoon baking soda with ½ teaspoon cream of tartar can mimic the leavening effect of baking powder.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a more complex flavor and can enhance the taste of baked goods.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice includes cinnamon along with other spices like nutmeg and cloves, adding a richer flavor profile.

• unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a dairy-free alternative that provides a similar texture and a subtle coconut flavor.

• apple - Substitute with pear: Pears have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a good alternative in baked goods.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free option that works well in baking and adds a slight nutty flavor.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a unique sweetness and depth of flavor, making it a good alternative to vanilla extract.

• To keep your apple cinnamon scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for up to 2 days.

• For longer storage, place the scones in the refrigerator. This will extend their freshness for up to 5 days. Make sure they are in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.

• If you want to freeze the scones, first allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the scones soggy.

• Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This extra layer of protection helps maintain their texture and flavor.

• Place the wrapped scones in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the container with the date so you can keep track of their freshness.

• When you're ready to enjoy a frozen scone, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 1-2 hours. For a quicker option, you can microwave the scone on a low setting for 20-30 seconds.

• To refresh the scones and bring back their just-baked texture, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the thawed scones on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for 5-10 minutes. This will make them taste as if they were freshly baked.

• If you prefer, you can also freeze the dough before baking. After cutting the dough into wedges, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen dough wedges to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container.

• When you're ready to bake the frozen dough, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the scones directly from the freezer. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time, so keep an eye on them and check for doneness with a toothpick.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the apple cinnamon scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10 minutes or until they are warmed through. This method helps maintain the scones' texture and keeps them from becoming too dry.

• Microwave Method: Place a scone on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check if it's warm enough; if not, continue in 10-second intervals. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the scone rubbery.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones directly on the rack or on a small baking sheet. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking frequently to ensure they don't overcook. This method is great for achieving a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft.

• Steaming Method: If you have a steamer, this is a gentle way to reheat scones without drying them out. Place the scones in the steamer basket and steam for about 3-5 minutes. This method helps retain moisture and keeps the scones soft.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Place the scones in the basket in a single layer. Heat for about 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are warming evenly. This method can give the scones a nice, slightly crispy exterior.

• Oven: Used to bake the scones at the specified temperature until they are golden brown and cooked through.

• Baking sheet: A flat sheet used to place the scone dough on for baking.

• Parchment paper: Lined on the baking sheet to prevent the scones from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

• Large mixing bowl: Used to combine the dry ingredients and later mix in the wet ingredients.

• Pastry cutter: A tool used to cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

• Small bowl: Used to whisk together the milk and vanilla extract before adding to the dry ingredients.

• Whisk: Used to mix the milk and vanilla extract together.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the gluten-free flour, sugar, and milk accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon accurately.

• Knife: Used to peel, core, and dice the apple.

• Cutting board: A surface to safely cut and dice the apple.

• Spatula: Used to stir the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined.

• Floured surface: A lightly floured area to turn out and shape the dough.

• Wire rack: Used to cool the scones after baking.

• Toothpick: Used to check if the scones are done by inserting it into the center to see if it comes out clean.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Quickly cut the butter into the flour mixture using a food processor instead of a pastry cutter.

Pre-chill butter: Keep the butter in the freezer for a few minutes before using to make it easier to cut into small pieces.

Prepare apples in advance: Peel, core, and dice the apples ahead of time and store them in the fridge until needed.

Use parchment paper: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper to save time on cleanup.