Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze

Flaky, buttery Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze are the perfect treat for any occasion. These scones are infused with warm chai spices and topped with a sweet glaze that complements their festive flavors. Ideal for fall, winter, or holiday gatherings, these scones are a delightful way to elevate your baking game.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavors: The combination of chai spices like cinnamon and cardamom brings warmth and comfort to every bite.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip these up with confidence.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them fresh from the oven with coffee or tea, or serve them as a charming addition to brunch.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough in advance and freeze it for quick baking whenever you crave a scone.
• Decadent Glaze: The maple chai glaze adds an indulgent finish that elevates these scones to the next level.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best homemade chai scones, having the right tools is essential. Ensuring you have everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Bench scraper
• Parchment paper or Silpat baking mat
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool helps quickly combine ingredients for a tender scone texture by cutting in the butter seamlessly.
• Bench scraper: It is perfect for cutting the dough neatly and transferring scones without losing their shape.

Ingredients

Flaky, buttery homemade scones laced with warm chai spices – cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg – and finished with a sweet maple chai glaze. These Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze are festive, flavorful, and perfect for fall, winter, and holiday baking!

For the Scones

• 12 tablespoons very cold unsalted butter, diced into cubes
• ½ cup very cold heavy cream
• 2 large eggs, divided
• 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling out scones
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon chai spice blend
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

For the Maple Chai Glaze

• 1 heaping cup powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons chai spice blend
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• pinch of kosher salt

How to Make Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Pull the butter, heavy cream, and eggs out of the refrigerator. Measure out the heavy cream into a liquid measuring cup. Whisk in 1 large egg along with 1 egg yolk (set aside the remaining egg white). Place this mixture in the freezer to chill while you prepare the dry ingredients.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a food processor bowl, combine:
2 cups of all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 tablespoon chai spice blend
½ teaspoon kosher salt

Pulse these ingredients together a few times until combined.

Step 3: Incorporate Butter

Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture in the food processor. Pulse until it resembles fluffy parmesan cheese with some larger pieces still visible—about 25-30 pulses.

Step 4: Form Dough

Remove your chilled cream mixture from the freezer. Gradually pulse it into your butter-flour mixture until a ball forms that pulls away from the sides. The dough should be slightly wet but still show pieces of butter.

Step 5: Chill Dough

Transfer your dough onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a ball and then press it into a disc. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the freezer for about 30 minutes.

Step 6: Cut Scones

After chilling, roll out your dough on a floured surface. For full-sized scones, roll into an inch thick circle and cut into wedges (8 total). For mini scones, roll into a rectangle half an inch thick; cut strips about two inches wide then slice those into triangles.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or use a Silpat mat. Place each cut scone on this prepared sheet and brush with egg wash using your reserved egg white.

Step 8: Bake Scones

Bake for about 20-22 minutes or until golden brown. Mini scones may bake slightly faster; keep an eye on them!

Step 9: Make Glaze

While baking, whisk together:
– 1 heaping cup powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons chai spice blend
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– A pinch of kosher salt

Aim for a thick glaze consistency.

Step 10: Glaze Scones

Coat each cooled scone by submerging its top into the glaze. For an extra thick layer, allow it to set before glazing again. Let set for about ten minutes before serving alongside coffee or tea! Enjoy!

How to Serve Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze

These delicious homemade chai scones with maple chai glaze are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy morning at home or a festive gathering, serving them with thoughtful accompaniments can enhance the experience.

With Coffee

• Enjoy the scones alongside a rich cup of coffee. The spices in the scones complement the coffee’s flavor beautifully.

With Tea

• Pairing these scones with your favorite tea is a classic choice. The warmth of chai tea echoes the flavors in the scones.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve with slices of fresh fruit, such as apples or pears, for a refreshing contrast to the sweet and spicy flavors.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include these scones in a brunch buffet with items like quiches and fruit salads for a delightful variety that will impress guests.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top or on the side for an indulgent treat that enhances the scone’s buttery texture.

With Cheese

• Serve with a mild cheese, like brie or cream cheese, to balance the sweetness and add richness to each bite.

How to Perfect Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze

To ensure your homemade chai scones come out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use cold ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream are very cold. This helps create flaky layers in your scones.

• Don’t overwork the dough: Mix just until combined. Overworking can lead to tough scones instead of tender ones.

• Chill before baking: Allowing the dough to rest in the freezer helps maintain its shape while baking and improves texture.

• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of chai spice blend according to your taste preferences for more or less spice.

• Use a sharp knife: When cutting the dough, use a sharp knife or bench scraper for clean edges and even baking.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze

These homemade chai scones are versatile and can be paired with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the scones.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that complements the scone’s texture.

3. Savory Quiche
   A slice of quiche offers heartiness that pairs well with sweet chai flavors.

4. Cheese Board
   A small cheese board featuring assorted cheeses provides savory bites that harmonize beautifully with sweet scones.

5. Herbal Tea
   A soothing herbal tea can complement the spices in your chai scones beautifully, enhancing their flavor profile.

6. Granola Bars
   Offer granola bars as a portable option that works well for those on-the-go who still want something sweet and satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To achieve the best results with your Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze, avoid these common mistakes.

• Overworking the dough: When mixing the dough, use a light hand. Overworking can lead to tough scones instead of tender ones.
• Ignoring temperature: Ensure your butter and cream are very cold. This helps create flaky layers in your scones.
• Incorrect measuring: Use precise measurements for flour and sugar. Too much or too little can ruin the texture and flavor.
• Skipping chilling time: Don’t rush the chilling step. Allowing the dough to rest in the freezer helps improve texture and shape.
• Not checking for doneness: Keep an eye on scones towards the end of baking. They should be golden brown but not overbaked.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze

• Freeze baked scones in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm scones for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat one scone at a time for 15-20 seconds, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place scone in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze.

Can I make these scones vegan?

You can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream and flax eggs.

What spices are used in chai?

Chai typically includes spices like cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg. Customize according to your taste!

How do I know when my scones are done baking?

Scones are ready when they turn golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Can I add fruit to my chai scones?

Yes! Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can enhance flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze are a delightful treat that captures the warmth of chai spices. Perfect for cozy mornings or holiday gatherings, they can easily be customized with your favorite add-ins. Give this recipe a try—your loved ones will surely enjoy them!