When the crisp winter air settles in, the comforting flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg become irresistible. That’s when I think about whipping up a batch of Cinnamon Eggnog Scones. Imagine the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen, luring family and friends to gather around for warm hugs and sweet treats. These scones combine the distinct richness of eggnog with warm spices, creating a lovingly indulgent pastry that transforms breakfast or brunch into a cozy celebration.

I first discovered this gem while searching for a festive treat that would impress at a holiday gathering. A delightful cross between soft scones and fragrant holiday baking, they emphasize simplicity without sacrificing flavor. With just a few pantry staples and less than an hour, you can enjoy a homemade delight that feels special enough for any occasion. So, let’s dive into this easy recipe, perfect for those days when fast food just won’t cut it!

Why are Cinnamon Eggnog Scones a must-try?

Warm, Festive Aroma: Baking these scones fills your kitchen with the delightful scents of cinnamon and nutmeg, instantly creating a cozy atmosphere.
Easily Made: With just a handful of basic ingredients and quick prep time, you can whip up a batch in under an hour.
Perfectly Indulgent: The rich flavor of eggnog elevates this classic scone, making it a unique treat that’s bound to impress.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a sweet dessert option.
Crowd-Pleasing: These scones are ideal for holiday gatherings or weekend brunches, guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends.
Don’t forget to check out the steps for perfecting scone texture to achieve that flaky goodness!

Cinnamon Eggnog Scones Ingredients

• For a delightful treat, gather these wholesome ingredients that make your Cinnamon Eggnog Scones irresistible!

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – for that perfect scone base
1/4 cup granulated sugar – adds just the right touch of sweetness
1 tablespoon baking powder – helps create that lovely lift
1/2 teaspoon baking soda – balances the rich flavor of eggnog
1/2 teaspoon salt – highlights all the wonderful flavors
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – brings warmth and festive spirit
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – adds a hint of holiday cheer
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed – ensures a tender, flaky texture
3/4 cup eggnog – the star ingredient for a rich, creamy flavor
1 large egg – binds everything together beautifully
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the sweet aroma of your scones

How to Make Cinnamon Eggnog Scones

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This sets the perfect stage for your scones to bake into golden perfection.
Combine the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well mixed.
Cut in the butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to combine until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggnog, egg, and vanilla extract until smoothly blended.
Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently just until combined. Overmixing could result in tough scones, so keep it friendly!
Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently about 5 times to ensure it comes together.
Shape the dough: Pat the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick, creating an even base for cutting.
Cut into wedges: Use a sharp knife to slice the dough into wedges, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the scones have risen beautifully. They should smell heavenly!

Optional: Drizzle a simple glaze on top for an extra sweet touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Eggnog Scones

• Cold Butter: Use very cold butter to ensure your scones are flaky and tender. If not cold enough, scones can become dense.

• Mixing Technique: Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough Cinnamon Eggnog Scones, losing that delightful texture.

• Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, use fresh ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Stale spices can dull the warm flavors that make these scones irresistible.

• Uniform Size: Cut your scones into even-sized wedges to ensure they bake uniformly. Uneven sizes can cause some scones to overbake while others remain underdone.

• Don’t Skip the Glaze: A simple glaze can elevate your scones even more, adding a touch of sweetness and a lovely finish. Experiment with flavors like vanilla or rum for a festive twist!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Eggnog Scones

Room Temperature: Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their delightful freshness.

Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, chill the scones in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure they’re wrapped tightly to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze scones in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Cinnamon Eggnog Scones, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, bringing back that fresh-baked taste!

Cinnamon Eggnog Scones Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these delicious scones your own with these fun ideas!

Dairy-Free: Substitute eggnog with your favorite non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk. This makes the scones equally delightful for those avoiding dairy.
Spice Swap: Try using pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon and nutmeg for a different flavor profile that still celebrates the season.
Add-ins: Fold in chocolate chips or dried cranberries to the dough for a burst of sweetness and texture that your family will love. The juicy cranberries add a nice contrast to the warm flavors.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to cater to gluten-sensitive guests while still enjoying a tasty treat.
Fruit Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing twist that brightens the traditional flavors and gives it a festive flair.
Nutty Twist: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the dough for added crunch and richness that complements the eggnog beautifully.
Frosting Finish: Top your baked scones with a simple spiced glaze made of powdered sugar and eggnog for a sweet finish that wraps up the cozy flavors perfectly.
Savory Option: Swap the eggnog for buttermilk and reduce the sugar to turn these scones into a savory treat, perfect for serving with soups or salads.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Eggnog Scones?

These deliciously spiced scones are perfect for crafting a cozy and delightful winter brunch.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits refreshes your palate and adds a burst of color to the table.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Pour a touch of warm maple syrup over the scones for an extra layer of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Honey Butter: Whip up some honey butter for a creamy topping that provides a luscious contrast to the scones’ flakiness.
Warm Cider: Serve spiced warm cider alongside for a hug-in-a-cup experience that amplifies the festive flavors of the scones.
Eggnog Latte: Continue the theme with a creamy eggnog latte to sip on while savoring the scones, creating the ultimate indulgent treat.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can elevate their richness; perfect for a sweet finish to your brunch feast.
Cheese Board: A selection of creamy cheeses balances the sweet flavors and adds a delightful savory element to your spread.
Chocolate Fondue: For a special touch, serve a small bowl of chocolate fondue for dipping—everyone will love this interactive dessert!

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Eggnog Scones are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time without sacrificing taste! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first six steps and then wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. This will keep the scone dough fresh and ready to bake when you are! Alternatively, if you prefer, you can cut the dough into wedges and store them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet and follow the baking instructions—voilà! You’ll enjoy delicious, fresh scones with minimal effort.

Cinnamon Eggnog Scones Recipe FAQs

What type of eggnog should I use for these scones?
Absolutely! You can use store-bought eggnog for convenience, but homemade eggnog will elevate the flavor even further. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a flavored variant, like spiced or nutmeg-infused, for a unique twist on your scone experience.

How do I know if my ingredients are fresh enough?
Very! When it comes to baking, ensuring your ingredients are fresh is vital. Check your flour for any off smells or clumping, as these can indicate staleness. For baking powder and baking soda, test their freshness by adding a small teaspoon to vinegar: if it bubbles vigorously, it’s good to go! For spices, make sure they haven’t lost their vibrant color or aroma; if they have, it’s better to replace them to achieve that rich flavor in your scones.

Can I store leftover scones, and how long will they last?
Absolutely! Store leftover Cinnamon Eggnog Scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, chilling them in the fridge extends their freshness for up to 5 days, just make sure they’re wrapped tightly to prevent any drying out.

Are Cinnamon Eggnog Scones suitable for freezing? If so, how?
Definitely! To freeze your scones, first, let them cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. They can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

What can I do if my scones turn out too dry?
If your scones come out dry, consider a few troubleshooting techniques. First, ensure that you’re measuring flour correctly—using the spoon and level method rather than scooping directly from the bag can help prevent excess flour. When mixing, be cautious not to overwork the dough, and always make sure to incorporate your wet ingredients well. For future batches, you could also add a tablespoon of milk or eggnog to the dough if you notice it feels crumbly before baking; this little addition can help lock in moisture!

Can I make these scones gluten-free?
Very! To make gluten-free Cinnamon Eggnog Scones, simply swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum. This shouldn’t alter the flavor significantly but retains that lovely scone texture. Be sure to check the blend’s measurement guidelines, as some might differ from traditional flour. Enjoy experimenting!