Easy Cinnamon Scones Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide with Pro Tips

Easy Cinnamon Scones Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide with Pro Tips

Perfect cinnamon scones start with fresh ingredients and smart techniques. This recipe delivers bakery-quality results at home, with expert tips to maximize cinnamon flavor and texture. Follow these steps for moist, flaky scones with rich, aromatic spice.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream, infused with cinnamon (see Hack #8)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp freshly ground cinnamon (see Hack #6)
• 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar for filling
• 1 tbsp melted butter for brushing

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Infuse cream with cinnamon: Warm 1/4 cup cream with 1 cinnamon stick for 10 minutes. Strain and chill. This enhances flavor depth (Hack #8).
3. In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk infused cream, egg, and 2 tbsp freshly ground cinnamon (Hack #6).
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Roll dough into a 1/2-inch thick rectangle. Spread brown sugar evenly over surface.
7. Roll dough tightly, slice into 8 wedges. Place on baking sheet.
8. Bake 15-18 minutes until golden. Brush with melted butter immediately after baking.

Pro Tips for Maximum Flavor

Tips	Why It Works	Implementation
Use freshly ground cinnamon	Preserves volatile oils for intense aroma	Grind whole sticks just before baking (Hack #6)
Infuse dairy with spices	Releases flavors into liquid base	Warm cream with cinnamon sticks 10 minutes before mixing
Store cinnamon properly	Prevents oxidation and flavor loss	Keep in amber glass jar away from light (Hack #1)

Key storage hacks:

• Always label spice containers with opening dates (Hack #2)
• For long-term storage, freeze ground cinnamon in airtight container (Hack #10)
• Toast cinnamon sticks before grinding to revive old stock (Hack #3)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent dry cinnamon scones?

Overmixing and overbaking are common causes. Mix dough until just combined, and remove scones when edges are golden (15-18 minutes). For extra moisture, add 1 tbsp extra cream if using more than 2 tbsp cinnamon.

Can I substitute Cassia for Ceylon cinnamon?

Yes! Cassia (common supermarket cinnamon) has stronger flavor, while Ceylon is more delicate. For scones, use Cassia for robust taste, or blend both: 3 parts Cassia + 1 part Ceylon for complexity.

Why does my cinnamon taste bland?

Stale cinnamon loses potency. Test freshness by rubbing a pinch between fingers—if no strong aroma, replace it. Always store in airtight containers away from light (Hack #1) and grind whole sticks fresh (Hack #6).

Bake Smarter, Not Harder

Perfect cinnamon scones require respect for your ingredients. By storing spices properly and using infusion techniques, you transform ordinary scones into extraordinary treats. Try these methods and share your results!