Easy Apple Scones

4.34 from 3 votes

Easy apple scones are light and crumbly, with bits of tender apple, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, and topped with apple cider glaze.

Prep Time15

Cook Time15

Total Time30

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Servings: scones

Calories: 274kcal

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Add the COLD diced butter and cut it into the flour with a pastry cutter. Add the shredded apple and stir to combine.
Stir in the yogurt.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Lightly pat it into a 7-inch round shape about 1-inch thick. The thickness is crucial for the fluffy texture
Use a sharp knife to cut the circle in half vertically, then in half horizontally. Cut each quarter into two equal wedges. You should have 8 wedges when you are finished. If you prefer circles, an upside-down glass or round cookie cutters work perfectly.
Place the scones on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between them. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.
Remove scones from the pan and place on a wire rack to cool for 10 minutes.
Stir the powdered sugar and apple cider until smooth. Add vanilla and cinnamon if using. The glaze should be thick but pourable.
Using a spoon, drizzle the glaze over each scone. Aim for a zigzag pattern or let it flow naturally over the edges for a rustic look. Allow the glaze to sit for about 10 minutes. This sets it, making the scones easier to handle without the glaze sticking to everything.

It’s best to use a firm, slightly tart apple, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These varieties hold their shape during baking and balance the sweetness of the scones.
If you do not have Greek yogurt, substitute milk or cream.
To achieve a light and flaky texture, work quickly with the dough and handle it as little as possible. Overmixing can lead to tough scones. Using cold butter is also key to creating those desirable flaky layers.
If you don’t have apple cider, you can use apple juice, although it may be less concentrated in flavor. Reducing the juice by simmering it on the stove can help intensify its flavor.
You can make the scones ahead of time. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container. You can also freeze them without the glaze and thaw them when ready to eat, adding the glaze afterward.
Place cooled scones in an airtight container. This keeps moisture from sneaking in and helps retain their texture. You can keep the scones at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.