Looking to add a delightful twist to your traditional Christmas baking this year? These Pecan and Gingerbread Scones are the perfect combination of festive flavors and cozy comfort. The rich taste of gingerbread blended with the nutty crunch of pecans creates a treat that will have your home smelling like a winter wonderland in no time. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s get baking!
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup brown sugar
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/3 cup molasses
– 1/3 cup buttermilk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together the molasses, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and beaten egg until well combined.
6. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
7. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together.
8. Pat the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 wedges.
9. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and cooked through.
10. Remove from the oven and let the scones cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with a cup of tea or coffee for the ultimate Christmas treat!
These Pecan and Gingerbread Scones make a wonderful addition to any holiday gathering or a cozy morning breakfast during the festive season. The warm spices and nutty pecans come together in a delightful scone that is sure to impress your family and friends. So, gather your loved ones around the table, savor the aroma of freshly baked scones, and create wonderful memories together this Christmas season. Happy baking!
