Sourdough Maple Pecan Scones

These Sourdough Maple Pecan Scones are a deliciously unique treat that will delight your taste buds. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack, they offer a wonderful combination of flavors. Using a few pantry staples, these scones are easy to whip up and highlight the delightful tang of sourdough combined with the sweetness of maple syrup and the crunch of pecans.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have fresh scones in no time.
• Unique Flavor: The sourdough adds a lovely depth of flavor that sets these scones apart from traditional recipes.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them plain, or glaze them for an extra sweet touch. Great for any occasion!
• Nutty Goodness: Chopped pecans add a delightful crunch and richness that complements the maple syrup.
• Perfectly Moist: The combination of butter and sourdough starter creates a tender crumb that’s hard to resist.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your scones, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Cheese grater
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Knife or bench scraper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl provides ample space for mixing dry ingredients without spilling.
• Cheese grater: Grating the butter keeps it cold, ensuring your scones remain flaky and tender.
• Rubber spatula: This is perfect for gently folding ingredients without overworking the dough.

Ingredients

This recipe uses straightforward ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.

For the Scones

• 2 cups all purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup pecans (chopped)
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup sourdough starter (active starter or discard)
• ⅓ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup

For the Glaze

• 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon milk
• ⅔ cup powdered sugar

How to Make Sourdough Maple Pecan Scones

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425℉. This high temperature will help create a nice rise on your scones.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Granulated sugar
3. Baking soda
4. Baking powder
5. Salt

Step 4: Grate the Butter

Use a cheese grater to grate the cold butter directly into the flour mixture. Try to work quickly to keep the butter from melting.

Step 5: Combine Butter with Dry Ingredients

Using a rubber spatula or your hands, mix the grated butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 6: Add Pecans

Stir in the chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.

Step 7: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, stir together:
1. Sourdough starter
2. Milk
3. Maple syrup

Step 8: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. You want a shaggy dough, so avoid overmixing.

Step 9: Shape Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Shape it into an approximate 9-inch circle.

Step 10: Cut Into Wedges

Use a large knife or bench scraper to cut your dough into eight equal-sized wedges.

Step 11: Transfer to Baking Sheet

Place each wedge onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least 1½ inches apart for even baking.

Step 12: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 5 minutes at 425℉. Then reduce heat to 375℉ and continue baking for another 10 minutes until golden brown.

Step 13: Cool Before Glazing

Once baked, allow your scones to cool completely before adding any glaze on top.

These Sourdough Maple Pecan Scones are sure to impress with their delightful flavors and satisfying texture! Enjoy them warm with coffee or tea for an unbeatable treat!

How to Serve Sourdough Maple Pecan Scones

Sourdough Maple Pecan Scones are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack, these scones can be paired with a variety of accompaniments to elevate their flavor.

With Fresh Fruit

• Seasonal Berries: Serve with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing burst of sweetness.
• Sliced Bananas: Add sliced bananas for a creamy texture that pairs well with the nutty flavors.

With Spreads

• Maple Butter: Spread homemade maple butter on warm scones for an extra layer of sweetness and richness.
• Cream Cheese: A light layer of cream cheese adds a tangy contrast to the sweet scone.

With Beverages

• Coffee: Enjoy your scones with a hot cup of coffee to complement their sweet and nutty notes.
• Herbal Tea: Pair with chamomile or mint tea for a soothing beverage option that balances the flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Maple Pecan Scones

Sourdough Maple Pecan Scones pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt: A creamy addition that adds protein and pairs nicely with fruit toppings.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich scone.
3. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese for a savory balance.
4. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots add a delightful side that complements the scone’s flavors.
5. Chia Seed Pudding: A nutritious and creamy option that pairs well with the nutty taste of pecans.
6. Granola Parfait: Layer granola with yogurt and berries for a crunchy contrast alongside your soft scone.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sourdough Maple Pecan Scones, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best scones possible.

• Bold measurement errors: Using incorrect measurements can lead to dry or overly wet dough. Always use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Bold overmixing the dough: Overworking the dough can make scones tough. Mix gently until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Bold neglecting butter temperature: If the butter is too warm, it will not create the desired flaky texture. Keep the butter cold while incorporating it into the mixture.
• Bold skipping the cooling phase: Allowing scones to cool before glazing is essential for the glaze to set properly. Patience will pay off with a prettier presentation.
• Bold improper spacing on baking sheet: Placing scones too close together can cause them to bake unevenly. Ensure they are spaced at least 1½ inches apart on the baking sheet.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking, to prevent sticking.

Freezing Sourdough Maple Pecan Scones

• Wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Use a freezer-safe bag or container for storage; they will last up to 2 months.

Reheating Sourdough Maple Pecan Scones

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 8-10 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Bold Microwave: Heat on medium power in 15-second intervals until warmed through; be careful not to overheat.
• Bold Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes, checking regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Sourdough Maple Pecan Scones that may help you.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in Sourdough Maple Pecan Scones?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but note that it may alter the texture slightly. Start with a mix of both flours for best results.

How do I know if my sourdough starter is active?

Your sourdough starter should double in size within 4-6 hours after feeding and have lots of bubbles on the surface. A pleasant tangy aroma indicates it’s ready.

Can I customize my Sourdough Maple Pecan Scones?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or different nuts based on your tastes.

What can I use instead of maple syrup?

You can replace maple syrup with honey or agave nectar if you prefer. However, this might slightly change the flavor profile.

How long does it take to prepare these scones?

Preparation time is about 15-20 minutes, with an additional baking time of around 15 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Sourdough Maple Pecan Scones are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a wonderful addition to breakfast or as an afternoon snack. You can easily customize them by adding your favorite ingredients like chocolate chips or different nuts. Try making these delightful scones and enjoy their unique flavors!