There is nothing quite like the cozy delight of warm, spiced treats fresh from the oven, which is exactly why I am so excited to share this Gingerbread Scones with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe with you. These scones bring together the heartwarming flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, blended perfectly into a tender almond flour base that’s lightly sweetened and rich with cream cheese. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that’s smooth and just sweet enough, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between comforting and indulgent. Whether for a holiday brunch or any cozy afternoon, these scones are sure to become a fast favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Gingerbread Scones with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that all play a crucial role in delivering perfect taste, texture, and that inviting golden color. Each element brings its own charm, turning the scones into a soft, spiced delight topped with creamy sweetness.
- 2 cups almond flour: The foundation of our scones providing a tender, moist crumb with a subtle nutty flavor.
- 1/3 cup Swerve Brown, packed: Gives sweetness without any added sugar and a touch of rich brown sugar flavor.
- 1 tbsp coconut flour: Adds just enough structure to hold the scones together without drying them out.
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder: Brings mild depth and warmth that complements the ginger perfectly.
- 1 tbsp ground ginger: Packs in the signature spicy bite essential to any gingerbread treat.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds cozy, sweet spice to elevate the flavor profile.
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves: A small pinch for that aromatic, slightly peppery twist that rounds out the spices.
- 2 tsp baking powder: Helps the scones rise and become beautifully fluffy and light.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: Adds richness to the dough ensuring a tender, luscious texture.
- 1 large egg: Binds all ingredients and contributes to the perfect crumb.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses delicate sweetness and fragrant warmth.
- For the frosting:
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened: The base of the frosting, creating creamy, tangy goodness.
- 1/4 cup powdered Swerve Sweetener: Sweetens without overpowering, keeping the frosting light.
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aromatic note to the frosting.
- 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream: Gives the frosting a smooth, spreadable texture.
- Water to thin, as needed: Adjusts consistency so that the frosting drizzles perfectly.
How to Make Gingerbread Scones with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is essential to help these scones rise nicely and develop that mouthwatering golden crust.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, combine almond flour, Swerve Brown, coconut flour, cocoa powder, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry spices and flours well ensures that every bite is perfectly balanced and flavorful.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, egg, and vanilla extract until silky smooth. This mixture adds richness and moisture vital for the scones’ tender texture.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry bowl and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing for tender scones that don’t become tough.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a disc about one inch thick. Use a knife or bench scraper to cut the disc into 12 equal wedges, just like slicing a pie.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Place the wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until they puff up and turn beautifully golden on top.
Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the scones cool slightly, whip together the softened cream cheese, powdered Swerve Sweetener, vanilla, and heavy whipping cream until smooth and creamy. Add water little by little until you achieve a drizzling consistency perfect for topping.
Step 8: Frost and Serve
Once the scones are just warm, drizzle the cream cheese frosting generously over each wedge. The contrast of warm spiced scone and creamy, slightly tangy frosting is pure bliss.
How to Serve Gingerbread Scones with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
For added visual charm and flavor, consider sprinkling the frosted scones with a pinch of ground cinnamon or a dusting of finely chopped crystallized ginger. A few chopped pecans or walnuts on top also add a delightful crunch and nutty contrast to the soft scones and smooth frosting.
Side Dishes
Pair your gingerbread scones with a steaming cup of chai tea or spiced coffee to enhance the warm flavors. A bowl of fresh berries or a simple mixed fruit salad can add refreshing brightness that balances the richness of the scones beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive brunch, arrange the scones on a tiered serving tray garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs or cinnamon sticks to evoke holiday charm. You can even pipe the cream cheese frosting artistically using a piping bag for a more elegant appearance. Served warm with a pat of butter on the side, these scones become a show-stopping centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover gingerbread scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to preserve their tender crumb and freshness. If you prefer, refrigeration will keep them safe for about 5 days but may slightly dry them out without reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze these scones either before or after frosting. Wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen scones maintain their flavor and texture for up to 3 months—perfect for preparing ahead of a busy morning or holiday gathering.
Reheating
To bring your scones back to freshly baked warmth, heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes. This refreshes their tender texture and melts the frosting slightly, recreating that just-baked magic.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour in this Gingerbread Scones with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?
While almond flour is essential for the texture and flavor profile in this particular recipe, you can substitute with all-purpose flour, but the scones will have a different texture and may be less moist. Adjust the liquid slightly if needed.
Is there a dairy-free option for the frosting?
Yes! To make the frosting dairy-free, swap the cream cheese for a vegan cream cheese alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream. The flavor will still be rich and delicious.
Can I make these scones vegan?
Making this exact scone recipe vegan would require several substitutions. You could try replacing the egg with a flax or chia egg and using vegan cream cheese, but texture might vary. Experimenting a bit may be needed for perfect results.
How spicy are the gingerbread scones? Can I adjust the spice levels?
The spices are balanced to give a warm but not overpowering gingerbread flavor. If you love more spice, feel free to increase the ginger or cinnamon to your taste. Conversely, reduce the cloves if you prefer something milder.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, shape it into a disc, wrap tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and can make your baking day easier.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Gingerbread Scones with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe a try because it is one of those special treats that fills your kitchen with seasonal joy and leaves everyone reaching for seconds. Crisp on the outside but tender and flavorful on the inside, with that irresistible cream cheese drizzle — it’s a celebration of cozy flavors in every bite. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or friends, these scones are sure to earn a spot as a beloved classic. Happy baking!
Print
Gingerbread Scones with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 scones
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delight in these moist and flavorful Gingerbread Scones, perfectly spiced with ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, made with almond and coconut flour for a gluten-friendly twist. Topped with a creamy, lightly sweetened cream cheese frosting, these scones are perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack.
Ingredients
Scones:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1/3 cup Swerve Brown, packed
- 1 tbsp coconut flour
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Frosting:
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered Swerve Sweetener (or powdered erythritol)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream
- Water to thin, as needed
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the scones.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine almond flour, Swerve Brown, coconut flour, cocoa powder, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking powder, and salt. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices and leavening.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well incorporated.
- Form Dough: Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined, forming a dough.
- Shape Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface, shape it into a round disc, then cut it into 12 wedges to form scones.
- Bake Scones: Arrange the wedges on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Prepare Frosting: While the scones bake, combine softened cream cheese, powdered Swerve sweetener, vanilla extract, and heavy whipping cream in a bowl. Mix until smooth, adding water a few drops at a time to achieve the desired drizzling consistency.
- Cool and Frost: Let the scones cool completely before drizzling them with the cream cheese frosting for a delightful finish.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to make mixing easier and to achieve a smooth batter and frosting.
- Use Swerve sweetener or erythritol for a low-carb, sugar-free option.
- Cut the scones evenly for uniform baking.
- Adjust frosting thickness with water carefully to get the perfect drizzle.
- Store leftover scones in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
