🥐 Introduction: The Cozy Comfort of Cinnamon Chip Scones
There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of cinnamon swirling through a warm kitchen. Whether it’s the crackling sound of fall leaves outside or a quiet Sunday morning with a steaming mug of coffee in hand, these Cinnamon Chip Scones fit the mood like a glove. Flaky on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with cinnamon-spiced goodness, they’re the kind of treat that invites slow moments and second helpings.
But don’t let their bakery-style appearance fool you—this is an easy cinnamon scone recipe that anyone can master. Whether you’re prepping ahead for brunch or freezing a batch for busy mornings, Cinnamon Chip Scones bring maximum flavor with minimal fuss. And just wait until you drizzle that velvety coffee icing over the top. Pure magic.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process—from ingredient tips to freezing tricks—so you can recreate the perfect homemade scones with cinnamon chips right in your own kitchen.
Table of Contents
❓ What Are Cinnamon Chip Scones?
Cinnamon Chip Scones are a sweet twist on the traditional British scone, combining the buttery flakiness of a classic scone with the warm spice of cinnamon chips baked right into the dough. Think of them as the cozy cousin of a biscuit and a muffin—crispy edges, soft centers, and a rich, spiced aroma that fills the kitchen as they bake.
Unlike chocolate chip or fruit-filled scones, Cinnamon Chip Scones melt the essence of cinnamon into every bite, thanks to warm, melty cinnamon chips that caramelize slightly in the oven. These buttery scones are perfect for cinnamon lovers who want something quicker and more rustic than a cinnamon roll but just as satisfying.
While some scones can be dry, homemade scones with cinnamon chips are anything but. With brown sugar, vanilla, and rich heavy cream in the mix, they’re soft, tender, and brimming with flavor. Add a drizzle of coffee icing, and they instantly become bakery-worthy.
Whether you’re planning a special brunch or just want a cozy snack to go with your morning coffee, Cinnamon Chip Scones are a warm, inviting choice that delivers both comfort and spice in every bite.
💖 Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Chip Scones
If you’ve ever taken a bite of a bakery scone only to be disappointed by its dry, crumbly texture, these Cinnamon Chip Scones will change your perception for good. Designed for maximum comfort and flavor, this recipe guarantees a crisp golden exterior, moist flaky interior, and a bold cinnamon punch in every bite.
Here’s why these Cinnamon Chip Scones deserve a permanent spot in your baking rotation:
🔸 Buttery and Flaky Perfection
Cold, grated butter is the not-so-secret weapon here. It melts during baking, creating steam that lifts the dough and builds those perfect layers that define flaky, buttery scones.
🔸 Cinnamon in Every Bite
Unlike other recipes that barely hint at spice, Cinnamon Chip Scones are packed with cinnamon chips that melt slightly and leave behind streaks of warm, sweet spice in every bite.
🔸 Pantry Staples, No Fancy Equipment
No stand mixer needed—just basic tools and your hands. This makes them easy to whip up anytime a cinnamon craving hits.
🔸 Freezer-Friendly for Easy Mornings
Bake now or later—it’s up to you. Freeze the dough before baking or make the scones ahead of time and reheat as needed. Either way, they turn out perfectly every time.
🔸 Bakery-Worthy Results at Home
Flaky layers, a shiny glaze, and a sweet cinnamon aroma will have everyone thinking you picked these up from a high-end café.
🧂 Ingredient Breakdown: What You’ll Need
Making the perfect Cinnamon Chip Scones starts with the right ingredients—each one plays a crucial role in achieving that buttery, flaky, and perfectly spiced result. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:
🥣 Dry Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups / 250g): The base of the dough. Spoon and level for accuracy to avoid dense scones.
- Baking Powder (2½ tsp): Your leavening agent. It gives the scones their rise and tender crumb.
- Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp): Adds warmth and spice to the dough itself—complements the cinnamon chips.
- Salt (½ tsp): Enhances overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
🧈 Cold Ingredients
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup / 113g, frozen): Grated while frozen, this is key for flaky texture. It creates steam pockets as it melts, resulting in layers.
- Heavy Cream (½ cup + 2 Tbsp / 120ml): Rich and thick, it adds moisture and tenderness. Also used for brushing the tops.
- Large Egg (1): Binds the ingredients and contributes richness.
- Vanilla Extract (1½ tsp): Rounds out the sweetness and deepens the flavor profile.
🍬 Sweeteners
- Brown Sugar (½ cup / 100g, light or dark): Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses for depth and softness.
- Cinnamon Chips (1¼ cups / 225g): The star of the show! These melt slightly during baking, leaving streaks of sweet cinnamon throughout each bite.
- Coarse Sugar (for topping): Optional but recommended for a sweet crunch and sparkle on top.
☕ For the Icing (Optional but Divine)
- Confectioners’ Sugar (1 cup / 120g): Base for the icing.
- Strong Black Coffee (3 Tbsp): Pairs beautifully with cinnamon, adding a grown-up flavor twist.
- Vanilla Extract (¼ tsp): Boosts the glaze’s flavor subtly but noticeably.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Cinnamon Chip Scones
These Cinnamon Chip Scones come together with simple techniques and a few key tips to guarantee flaky layers and rich flavor. Follow these detailed steps and you’ll have golden, bakery-style scones ready to impress.
🥄 Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This ensures even distribution and a uniform flavor throughout the scones.
❄️ Step 2: Grate the Frozen Butter
Using a box grater, grate the frozen unsalted butter directly into the flour mixture. Toss it gently with your hands or a pastry cutter to coat the butter shreds in flour. The goal is a crumbly texture with pea-sized butter bits—these melt during baking and create steam, which forms those signature flaky layers.
Pro Tip: If your kitchen is warm, pop the mixture into the freezer for 5–10 minutes before continuing.
🥣 Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined before proceeding.
🍪 Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet ingredients over the dry mixture. Add the cinnamon chips, then stir gently with a spatula or your hands until everything is just moistened. The dough will be shaggy and sticky—resist the urge to overmix.
✋ Step 5: Shape the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. With floured hands, bring it together into a ball and press it into an 8-inch disc. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour; if it’s too dry, splash in a tablespoon of cream.
Cut the disc into 8 equal wedges using a sharp knife or bench scraper.
❄️ Step 6: Chill the Wedges
Place the wedges on a lined baking sheet or plate and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. This helps prevent over-spreading in the oven and enhances the rise.
🔥 Step 7: Bake
Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Arrange scones 2–3 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with remaining heavy cream and sprinkle with coarse sugar for that bakery-style finish.
Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the tops are lightly browned. Let them cool for a few minutes before icing.
🍮 Step 8: Drizzle the Coffee Icing
In a small bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, strong black coffee, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the icing over slightly warm scones for a melty, sweet finish that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon flavor.
📝 Storage Tip:
Leftover Cinnamon Chip Scones can be stored at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. Freeze unbaked wedges for up to 3 months and bake straight from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes to the bake time.
❄️ Make-Ahead, Freezing, and Storage Tips
One of the many reasons to love Cinnamon Chip Scones is their flexibility. Whether you want to prep them ahead for a brunch party or stock your freezer with cozy treats, this recipe is made to accommodate your schedule.
🕒 Make-Ahead Options
You can fully prep the dough in advance. After shaping it into wedges, cover and refrigerate overnight on a baking sheet. The next day, just pop them in the oven as directed—no need to let them come to room temperature. In fact, chilled scone dough often bakes up taller and flakier.
❄️ Freeze Before Baking
To freeze unbaked Cinnamon Chip Scones, arrange the wedges on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1 hour). Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—simply add 2–3 extra minutes to the baking time.
Bonus Tip: Label the bag with baking instructions so you don’t have to look it up later!
🧊 Freeze After Baking
Already baked your scones but don’t want them to go stale? Let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave for 30 seconds or warm in a 300°F (149°C) oven for 8–10 minutes.
Note: For best results, glaze the scones after reheating so the icing stays glossy and fresh.
🧁 Storing Fresh Scones
- At Room Temperature: Keep iced or un-iced scones in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- In the Fridge: Store for up to 5 days. This is ideal if your kitchen is humid or warm.
- Reheating Tip: A quick zap in the microwave or a few minutes in the oven will restore the fresh-from-the-bakery texture.
Cinnamon Chip Scones aren’t just delicious—they’re one of the most freezer- and prep-friendly baked goods you can make. That makes them perfect for holiday mornings, brunch gatherings, or just having something cozy on hand whenever the craving hits.
🌟 Customizations & Flavor Variations for Cinnamon Chip Scones
One of the best things about Cinnamon Chip Scones is how adaptable they are. With a few tweaks, you can create flavor profiles that suit any season, dietary need, or personal craving. Here are some delicious ideas to make this recipe your own:
🧁 Swap the Icing: Vanilla or Maple Glaze
If coffee icing isn’t your thing, don’t worry—you’ve got options:
- Vanilla Glaze: Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons milk and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. It’s sweet, simple, and kid-approved.
- Maple Glaze: Add a tablespoon of pure maple syrup to your vanilla glaze for a cozy fall twist.
🍫 Add New Mix-Ins
Cinnamon chips are the star, but feel free to get creative:
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: Add crunch and nutty richness.
- White Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter, dessert-style scone.
- Diced Apples: Add ½ cup finely chopped apples to make cinnamon-apple scones.
Note: If adding juicy fruits like apples, reduce the cream slightly to maintain dough consistency.
🌾 Make It Gluten-Free
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for structure. The result? Cinnamon Chip Scones that are just as tender and flaky—no one will know the difference.
🥛 Make It Dairy-Free
Yes, you can still enjoy buttery Cinnamon Chip Scones without dairy:
- Butter Swap: Use plant-based butter sticks (not margarine).
- Cream Alternative: Full-fat canned coconut milk or unsweetened oat cream work well.
🧁 Mini Scones for Snacking
Cut the dough into 16 small triangles instead of 8 for bite-sized Cinnamon Chip Scones—great for brunch spreads or holiday dessert trays. Bake for 12–14 minutes.
🍓 Add a Fruit Twist
Fold in dried cranberries or raisins with the cinnamon chips for a fruity pop. Or drizzle with a berry glaze made from powdered sugar and mashed raspberries.
No matter how you spin it, these Cinnamon Chip Scones are endlessly customizable while still delivering that signature buttery, spiced flavor in every bite.
Read Also: Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread: 7 Reasons You’ll Love This Fall Favorite
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Chip Scones
Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, questions always come up. Here are the most common ones people ask about Cinnamon Chip Scones, along with clear answers to ensure your scones turn out perfectly every time.
1. Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of cinnamon chips?
Yes! While cinnamon chips offer that signature spiced flavor, semisweet or white chocolate chips work well too. Just note that the final taste will be sweeter and less spiced.
2. How do I stop my scones from spreading too much in the oven?
Chill the shaped dough for at least 15 minutes before baking. Cold dough holds its shape better and creates taller, flakier scones. Over-handling or warm butter can also cause excess spreading.
3. What’s the best way to store leftover scones?
Store cooled Cinnamon Chip Scones in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat briefly in the oven or microwave for fresh-baked texture.
4. Can I freeze the scones before baking?
Absolutely. Freeze the unbaked wedges on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the baking time.
5. Can I make these scones smaller or into mini versions?
Yes! Cut the dough into 16 mini wedges instead of 8 large ones. Reduce baking time to about 12–14 minutes. Perfect for brunch platters or portion control.
6. Do I have to use coffee icing?
Nope! Try vanilla or maple glaze, or skip icing altogether. The cinnamon chips bring plenty of flavor, so the scones are still delicious without any topping.
7. Can I make these scones vegan?
With some tweaks, yes. Use plant-based butter, a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water), and non-dairy cream like oat or almond. Be sure to check that your cinnamon chips are dairy-free.
8. Why is my dough so sticky or too dry?
Scone dough can be finicky. If it’s too sticky, add a bit of flour. Too dry? Add 1–2 tablespoons more cream. Weather and ingredient brands can affect moisture, so adjust as needed.
9. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
You can swap up to 50% of the flour for whole wheat without compromising too much texture. Full whole wheat can make the scones denser, so increase the cream slightly.
10. What’s the secret to perfect Cinnamon Chip Scones?
Keep everything cold—especially the butter. Don’t overwork the dough. And let the shaped scones chill before baking. These steps ensure flakiness, height, and amazing texture.
There’s a reason these Cinnamon Chip Scones are quickly becoming a favorite among home bakers—they’re the perfect mix of cozy flavor, flaky texture, and easy prep. Whether you’re serving them at a weekend brunch, gifting them during the holidays, or just treating yourself to a cinnamon-spiced pick-me-up, these scones deliver every time.
From their buttery crumb to the sweet coffee glaze, each bite is warm, indulgent, and full of comforting cinnamon flavor. And with options for make-ahead prep, freezing, and even dietary swaps, this recipe fits effortlessly into any lifestyle.
So, grab your mixing bowl, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy one of the best cinnamon chip scone recipes you’ll ever try.
Have you tried this cinnamon chip scone Recipe?
Leave a comment, share it with friends, and follow us on Pinterest for more bake and no-bake dessert inspiration straight to your feed!
Read Also: Cinnamon Roll Wreath: 7 Irresistible Tips for Perfect Results
Cinnamon Chip Scones: 7 Secrets for Flaky, Buttery Perfection
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 large scones 1x
Description
These Cinnamon Chip Scones are golden on the outside, tender and flaky inside, bursting with warm cinnamon-chip swirls, and topped with a sweet coffee glaze. They’re freezer‑friendly, customizable, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or cozy snacking!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
2 cups (250g) all‑purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
2½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
Cold / Wet Ingredients & Sweeteners
½ cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, frozen
½ cup (120ml) heavy cream (plus 2 Tbsp for brushing)
½ cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar
1 large egg
1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1¼ cups (225g) cinnamon chips
Topping & Icing
Coarse sugar (for sprinkling)
Coffee Icing:
• 1 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar
• 3 Tbsp strong black coffee
• ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl.
Grate the frozen unsalted butter into the flour mixture using a box grater. Use a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingers to combine until you have pea‑sized crumbs.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream (½ cup), brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients, add the cinnamon chips, and mix just until everything is moistened. Dough should be sticky. Adjust: add a bit more flour if too wet, or a tablespoon or two of cream if too dry.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, gently bring into a ball, and press into an 8‑inch disc. Cut into 8 wedges.
Brush the tops with the reserved heavy cream, sprinkle with coarse sugar. Refrigerate the shaped wedges for at least 15 minutes to prevent over‑spreading.
Bake for 22‑25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the tops lightly browned. Remove from oven and let cool a few minutes.
While warm, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, black coffee, and vanilla to make the coffee icing. Drizzle over scones.
Notes
Freeze Before Baking: Freeze shaped wedges for about 1 hour on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to bake time.
Freeze After Baking: Cool baked scones, freeze without icing. To reheat, microwave briefly or warm in 300°F (149°C) oven. Apply icing after reheating.
Overnight Option: Prepare through step 4 (mixing), then cover and refrigerate overnight. Proceed next day from shaping and baking.
Texture Tips: Use very cold butter; don’t over‑mix dough; chill shaped dough to prevent spreading.
Customizations: Try vanilla or maple glaze, add nuts or dried fruit, make mini scones, gluten‑free or dairy‑free swaps.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast / Brunch / Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American / Bakery Style
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone
- Calories: ~ 460 kcal
- Sugar: ~ 27‑33 g
- Sodium: ~ 350‑500 mg
- Fat: ~ 30‑32 g
- Saturated Fat: ~ 15‑18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~ 5‑6 g monounsaturated + ~1 g polyunsaturated
- Trans Fat: ~ 0‑1 g (very low)
- Carbohydrates: ~ 70‑77 g
- Fiber: ~ 2‑3 g
- Protein: ~ 7‑10 g
- Cholesterol: ~ 115‑130 mg