Fluffy Eggnog Scones Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a treat that perfectly captures the cozy spirit of the holidays, look no further than this Fluffy Eggnog Scones Recipe. These scones are irresistibly tender and fragrantly spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon, carrying the rich, creamy flavors of eggnog right into each fluffy bite. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning with a mug of coffee or impressing guests at your next festive brunch, this recipe brings warmth, softness, and just the right touch of holiday magic to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the short ingredient list fool you—each component plays a vital role in delivering that signature fluffy texture and comforting flavor that makes this dish so addictive. Here’s what you’ll gather for your perfect batch of scones:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that builds structure for your scones without weighing them down.
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to balance the spices without overpowering.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: The secret to achieving that soft, risen fluffiness.
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Brings that warm, cozy holiday spice that pairs beautifully with eggnog.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle depth and aromatic dimension.
• 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed: Creates tender, flaky layers and richness.
• 1/2 cup cold eggnog: Infuses that unmistakable creamy, festive flavor and moistness.
• 1 large egg: Binds everything together while adding richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and rounds out the spices wonderfully.
• 1/4 teaspoon rum extract (optional): Gives a subtle boozy hint reminiscent of classic eggnog rituals.
• 1 tablespoon eggnog for brushing: Helps the scone tops take on a beautiful golden color.
• 2 tablespoons coarse sugar or turbinado sugar (optional topping): Adds a delightful sparkle and slight crunch.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: The base of the luscious glaze that finishes the scones.
• 2–3 tablespoons eggnog for glaze: Creates a dreamy, sweet coating with festive flair.
• 1 pinch ground nutmeg for glaze: A little extra spice for that finishing touch.
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract for glaze: Ties the glaze flavor together perfectly.

How to Make Fluffy Eggnog Scones Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Workspace

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure your scones bake evenly and release easily. Having everything ready upfront makes the baking process smooth and enjoyable!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. This step is key to evenly distributing the spices and leavening agents to ensure each scone gets that lovely balanced flavor and fluffy rise.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry mix. With a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized bits of butter left. These pockets of butter will melt in the oven and create those tender layers we adore in scones.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl or large measuring cup, whisk the cold eggnog, egg, vanilla extract, and rum extract (if using) until smooth. Using cold eggnog helps with flaky texture and signature moistness.

Step 5: Bring the Dough Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently fold with a spatula just until the dough comes together and looks shaggy. Avoid overmixing here to keep the scones light and tender.

Step 6: Shape and Cut the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut the circle into 8 equal wedges. This classic shape makes serving easy and keeps baking even.

Step 7: Prep for Baking

Transfer the wedges to your prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Brush the tops with a little eggnog and sprinkle with coarse or turbinado sugar for a sparkling finish if you like.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until the scones have puffed up beautifully, edges are lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage is pure happiness!

Step 9: Cool and Glaze

Allow the scones to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. While they cool a bit, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons eggnog, nutmeg, and vanilla extract for the glaze. Adjust the consistency with an extra splash of eggnog if needed until it’s smooth and pourable.

Step 10: Finish with a Glaze Drizzle

Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm scones, letting it set for several minutes. This sweet topping adds just the right touch of festive charm and extra flavor boost.

How to Serve Fluffy Eggnog Scones Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly ground nutmeg sprinkled lightly over the glazed scones adds a lovely aromatic note and pretty visual appeal. For a holiday twist, try a tiny sprig of rosemary or a few red currants for color contrast and sophistication.

Side Dishes

Pair your scones with whipped cream, clotted cream, or spiced apple butter for indulgent toppings. A hot cup of spiced tea, coffee, or even a glass of cold eggnog will complete the experience and keep the seasonal feels flowing strong.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the scones on a festive platter surrounded by cinnamon sticks, cranberries, and pine sprigs for an inviting centerpiece. You could also serve them in a tiered cake stand alongside other holiday treats to create an irresistible spread your guests will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They maintain their delightful texture and flavor nicely, making them a perfect grab-and-go snack the next morning.

Freezing

These scones freeze wonderfully! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months, so you can enjoy that Fluffy Eggnog Scones Recipe magic anytime you crave it.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy frozen scones, thaw at room temperature for 15 minutes, then warm in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This refreshes their flakiness and melts the glaze to bring back that fresh-baked feel.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of eggnog?

While you can substitute milk, part of what makes this scone recipe so special is the rich, festive flavor of eggnog. Using milk will change the taste and slightly affect texture, so if you want the authentic holiday magic, stick with eggnog!

What if I don’t have rum extract?

The rum extract adds a lovely touch but is completely optional. Your scones will still taste fantastic without it. You can also use a splash of bourbon or omit entirely for kid-friendly treats.

How do I avoid overmixing the dough?

Mix the wet and dry ingredients gently just until the dough clumps together. It should look a bit shaggy and not too smooth. Overmixing can develop gluten and lead to tough scones instead of light and fluffy ones.

Can I make these scones dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute vegan butter for the unsalted butter and use a dairy-free eggnog alternative that you love. The flavors may vary slightly but the scones will still turn out deliciously tender.

Is it okay to brush the scones with eggnog before baking?

Absolutely! Brushing the tops with eggnog helps them develop a beautiful golden color and adds a subtle extra layer of moisture and flavor. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Fluffy Eggnog Scones Recipe inspires you to bring a little extra joy and coziness into your kitchen this season. They are truly a delightful way to celebrate festive flavors with soft texture and a stunning glaze that makes every bite feel special. Trust me, once you try these scones, they’ll quickly become one of your favorite holiday traditions to bake and share with loved ones.

Print