Description

These Chai Pear Scones are the perfect combination of warm, comforting spices and the sweetness of ripe pears. The soft, crumbly texture of the scone is enhanced by the aromatic blend of chai spices, and the juicy pear pieces add a burst of flavor and moisture. These scones are perfect for a cozy breakfast, afternoon tea, or a special brunch treat. The spices make them feel like a hug in every bite, and the pears give them a lovely, natural sweetness that perfectly balances the richness of the dough.

Ingredients

For the Scones:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

1 large egg

1/2 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 large pear, peeled, cored, and diced (about 1 cup)

1 tablespoon milk or heavy cream (for brushing)

For the Glaze (optional):

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 tablespoon milk or heavy cream

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

A pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Make the Scone Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, black pepper, and salt. Add the cubed cold butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter.
Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix. Gently fold in the diced pear pieces, being careful not to overwork the dough.
Form and Shape the Scones: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a round disk about 1-inch thick. Cut the dough into 8 wedges, like a pizza. Place the scones onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
Brush and Bake: Brush the tops of the scones with a little milk or heavy cream to give them a golden, glossy finish. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on the edges and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Make the Glaze (Optional): While the scones are cooling, make the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using) in a small bowl. The glaze should be smooth and pourable but not too runny.
Serve: Let the scones cool for about 10 minutes before drizzling them with the glaze (if using). Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For extra crunch, add a handful of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts.

Swap out the pear for other fruits, like apple or cranberry, for a different twist.

Adding a sprinkle of turbinado sugar on top before baking gives them extra sweetness and crunch.

Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
Cook Time: 18-22 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Method: Bake
Cuisine: American, British

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 scone
Calories: 250
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 30mg