Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze

Flaky and buttery, Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze are the perfect treat for any occasion. These delightful scones blend warm chai spices like cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg, creating a cozy flavor profile that is ideal for fall and winter gatherings. Whether you serve them at breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack with tea or coffee, these scones will impress your guests with their flavor and beautiful glaze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the scone-making process, making it approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of chai spices infused into the scones adds a warm and aromatic touch that everyone will adore.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these scones fresh from the oven or freeze for later—simply reheat for a quick treat.
• Perfectly Glazed: The sweet maple chai glaze elevates these scones to a new level of deliciousness, making them irresistible.
• Festive Appeal: Ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy mornings at home, these scones bring joy to any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking your homemade chai scones, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Bench scraper
• 2-cup liquid measuring cup
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Efficiently combines ingredients to create a crumbly texture that is key for flaky scones.
• Bench scraper: Perfect for cutting dough into shapes without losing its integrity.
• Measuring cup: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time.

Ingredients

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.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Measure the heavy cream into a 2-cup liquid measure. Whisk in 1 large egg + 1 large egg yolk. Reserve the remaining egg white for brushing the scones. Set this mixture in the freezer to chill while you prepare the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Pulse several times until mixed.

Step 4: Add Butter

Add the very cold butter to the flour mixture in the food processor. Pulse until some butter pieces are small while others remain larger—this variation helps create flaky scones.

Step 5: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the chilled cream mixture into the food processor while pulsing until a dough forms. The dough should feel slightly wet but still have visible pieces of butter.

Step 6: Shape Dough

Transfer dough onto a lightly floured surface. Quickly form it into a ball and press it into a disc. Wrap in plastic and place in the freezer for 30 minutes.

Step 7: Cut Scones

Once chilled, roll out dough on a floured surface:
For full-sized scones: Roll to about 1 inch thick; cut into wedges.
For mini scones: Roll to about ½-inch thick; cut into strips then triangles.

Step 8: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat mat. Place scones on prepared sheet and brush with reserved egg wash.

Step 9: Bake

Bake for 20–22 minutes until golden brown. Allow cooling before glazing.

Step 10: 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

Whisk until smooth and thick.

Step 11: Glaze Scones

Submerge each cooled scone into the glaze for an even coating. Allow glaze to set before serving—enjoy with coffee or tea!

How to Serve Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze

These delightful homemade chai scones with maple chai glaze are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy brunch or an afternoon tea, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Coffee

• Pairing with coffee brings out the rich flavors of the scones. Opt for a medium roast that balances well with the spices.

With Tea

• Enjoy these scones alongside a cup of your favorite tea, such as chai or Earl Grey, to complement their warm spices.

Fresh Fruit

• Serve with a side of fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples for a refreshing contrast to the sweet glaze.

Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds a luxurious touch, making your scone experience even more indulgent.

Cheese Plate

• Create a small cheese board with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese. Their creamy texture pairs nicely with the scones.

Yogurt Parfait

• Layer yogurt with granola and fruits in a glass for a balanced meal. The chai scones can be crumbled on top for added flavor and crunch.

How to Perfect Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze

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

• Chill Ingredients: Always use very cold butter and cream. This helps create flaky layers in your scones.

• Don’t Overmix: Combine ingredients just until they come together. Overmixing can lead to tough scones.

• Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your chai spice blend is fresh for maximum flavor. Old spices can dull the taste.

• Cut Evenly: When cutting the dough, make sure all pieces are of uniform size to ensure even baking.

• Rest Before Baking: Letting the dough chill after shaping helps develop flavors and improves texture.

• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your scones as they bake; ovens vary, and slight adjustments might be needed for perfect doneness.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze

These side dishes complement homemade chai scones beautifully, making them suitable for various occasions.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness alongside the rich flavors of the scones.

2. Savory Quiche: A light quiche made with vegetables provides a savory contrast that balances the sweetness of the glaze.

3. Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars offer a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that pairs well with soft scones.

4. Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy chia seed pudding can serve as a wholesome side that complements the spices in the scone.

5. Herbal Infused Water: Infuse water with herbs like mint or basil for a refreshing drink that cleanses the palate between bites.

6. Roasted Nuts: A small bowl of spiced roasted nuts provides an enjoyable crunch and enhances the overall flavor experience.

7. Mini Pastries: Include an assortment of mini pastries for variety; their flaky nature will harmonize well with your chai scones.

8. Veggie Sticks & Dip: Crisp vegetable sticks served with hummus or ranch dip offer a healthy snack option that balances out sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking scones can be a fun activity, but it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using warm ingredients: Always use very cold butter and cream. This helps create flaky layers in your scones.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until the dough comes together. Overworking it can lead to tough scones instead of tender ones.
• Skipping the chill time: Don’t skip resting the dough in the freezer. Chilling helps maintain the shape and texture during baking.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method to avoid using too much flour, which can dry out the scones.
• Neglecting oven temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated properly. Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover 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 unbaked scone dough for up to 2 months; wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• Alternatively, freeze baked scones for up to 3 months; store in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat scones for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make them chewy.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making these delicious scones, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I customize my Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even swap chai spices according to your taste preferences.

How do I ensure my scones are flaky?

Using cold ingredients and not overmixing the dough are key steps in achieving that perfect flaky texture.

Can I use a different glaze?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other flavors like lemon or orange glaze if you prefer something different from maple.

What should I serve with my chai scones?

These scones pair wonderfully with tea or coffee. They also make a great addition to a brunch spread!

How long do these scones stay fresh?

When stored properly, they can last up to three days in the fridge or three months in the freezer without losing their flavor.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Chai Scones with Maple Chai Glaze offer a delightful blend of flavors that are perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize them easily by adding your favorite mix-ins or adjusting spices. Bake up a batch today and savor these warm treats!