Easy Cinnamon Scone Recipe: Perfectly Flaky with Storage Tips

Table of Contents

• Cinnamon Scone Recipe
• Cinnamon Storage Tips
• Buying Guide for Cinnamon
• Frequently Asked Questions

Cinnamon Scone Recipe

Discover the perfect cinnamon scone recipe with flaky texture and rich flavor. This easy-to-follow guide includes precise measurements, pro tips, and step-by-step instructions for bakery-quality results at home.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Cut cold butter into dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Whisk milk and egg in separate bowl. Gradually add to dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Gently knead dough on floured surface. Roll to 1-inch thickness and cut into rounds.
6. Bake 15-18 minutes until golden brown. Cool 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Perfect Scones

• Keep butter cold: Chill butter for 30 minutes before use for maximum flakiness
• Don't overmix: Stop mixing as soon as dough comes together to avoid toughness
• Use fresh cinnamon: For best flavor, use cinnamon stored properly (see below)

Cinnamon Storage Tips

Proper storage preserves cinnamon's potency and flavor for up to 2 years. Follow these science-backed methods:

Storage Method	Pros	Cons
Pantry	Convenient access	Exposure to light and temperature fluctuations
Refrigerator	Extends shelf life	May absorb fridge odors
Freezer	Longest shelf life	Can become brittle if not sealed properly
Glass Jars	Blocks light, easy to clean	More expensive than plastic containers

Buying Guide for Cinnamon

Selecting high-quality cinnamon makes all the difference in your baking. Here's what to look for:

Type Comparison

• Ceylon Cinnamon: "True cinnamon" with delicate, sweet flavor. Ideal for desserts and delicate baked goods.
• Cassia Cinnamon: Stronger, bolder flavor. Best for coffee drinks and savory dishes.

Buying Checklist

• Check origin: Sri Lanka for Ceylon, Indonesia for Cassia
• Whole sticks last longer than ground cinnamon
• Smell test: Fresh cinnamon has strong sweet aroma (no musty odors)
• Buy small quantities for maximum freshness (use within 3 months)

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Ceylon and Cassia cinnamon for scones?

Ceylon cinnamon has a more delicate, sweet flavor perfect for scones where you want subtle spice notes. Cassia has stronger flavor that can overpower other ingredients. For most scone recipes, Ceylon is preferred for its subtlety.

How long do cinnamon scones stay fresh?

Freshly baked cinnamon scones stay at best quality for 1-2 days in airtight container at room temperature. For optimal freshness, enjoy within 24 hours. Revive day-old scones by warming in oven for 5-10 minutes.

Can I freeze cinnamon scones?

Yes! Freeze cooled scones individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then in freezer bag. They'll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm directly from frozen in 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

Why is my cinnamon scone dough too dry?

Dry dough usually comes from too much flour or dry kitchen conditions. Measure flour by spooning into cup (not scooping), and add milk 1 tsp at a time until dough holds together. Scone dough should be slightly crumbly but cohesive.

How can I tell if my cinnamon has gone bad?

Check aroma and color: Fresh cinnamon has strong sweet scent and rich reddish-brown color. If it smells dusty, musty, or has faded color, it's lost potency. Replace cinnamon stored over 1-2 years or showing these signs.