This small batch of Maple Scones is perfect for a last-minute brunch. The cream scones are quick and easy to make, and you’ll want to eat this maple glaze with a spoon!
It’s week two of Nerd Month, year 2 (What’s Nerd Month? Read more about it in my Potato Gratin for Two post) and today’s recipe is inspired by one of my favorite new comedies from 2016, The Good Place!
Have you watched The Good Place? If you haven’t, you absolutely should. It’s sweet, incredibly funny, and very, very clever. If there’s been a bit of a hole in your heart since Parks and Rec left the air, this might be just the show you’re looking for.
NBC
If you don’t know the premise of the show, it’s that Eleanore, a pretty terrible person in life, accidentally ends of in “the good place” when she dies. It’s clear to her right from the beginning that she doesn’t belong there and that her presence seems to be destabilizing heaven, so the show is mostly a series of wacky, heavenly hi-jinks and misadventures as Eleanore and the lovable weirdos she meets along the way try to keep her from being found out while the afterlife is going crazy around them. And it’s a damn delight.
In the third episode, after the latest Eleanore-induced disaster, Eleanore and her bff/mortal enemy, the disgustingly perfect Tahani, go around their bit of heaven to deliver maple butter scones to all of their neighbors, and as soon as I heard the words “maple” “butter” and “scones,” I was intrigued.
NBC
I mean, how good do maple butter scones sound!?
Now, I’m not sure what combination of maple butter and/or maple and butter went into Tahani’s scones because when I went to go look up a maple butter scone recipe, I found none (seriously, go google them. I’ll wait.).
And then I realized that it made perfect sense, because of course Tahani’s go-to scone recipe would be one-of-a-kind. Of course.
And of course I then wanted to make her scones, so I did.
My take on Tahani’s maple butter scones is a simple cream scone finished off with a fabulous maple (and) butter glaze.
The end result?
They are heavenly.
(Okay, no more heaven puns. I promise.)
Cream scones are a bit different from classic scones like my Bacon Scones. They use cream in the dough rather than cold butter (some recipes use both) and the result is a scone that is on the moist side rather than crumbly with a slightly crispy exterior.
They are also insanely easy to make. You just throw all the dry ingredients into a bowl, stir in the wet, and the next thing you know, you have a batch of scones ready to go into the oven.
I cut my scones into wedges because I think they are cuter that way, but you can make them into rounds like Tahani if that’s more your style. Then once your scones come out of the oven and cool a bit, you drizzle on a simple and sweet maple butter glaze.
This small-batch scone recipe will make six regular-size scones or about four large round ones (extend the baking time just a bit if you’re going that route). You can eat them all yourself or follow Tahani’s lead, put on a flowing skirt and giant hat, and take a couple to share with some friends and neighbors. 😉
More Easy Breakfast Recipes
- Buttermilk Pancakes for Two
- Crispy Waffles
- Pancakes for One
- Banana Pancakes
- Small-batch Cinnamon Rolls
- The Best Cinnamon Toast
Small-batch Maple Scones
Ingredients
Cream Scones
- 1 1/2 cup (180g) all-purpose flour measured by weight or using the spoon and sweep method*
- 1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons (37g) granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup heavy cream , plus more for brushing on scones*
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Maple Glaze
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tablespoon (14g) butter, melted
- 1 to 3 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon maple extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mat. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- In a liquid measuring cup or bowl, stir together heavy cream and vanilla.
- Drizzle cream mixture over your dry ingredients and stir, using just enough cream so that a dry dough forms with no loose flour at the bottom of your bowl*. Use clean hands to finish mixing and shape dough into a ball. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Press dough out to a disk about 5 1/2-inches across or 3/4-inch thick.
- Use a dough scraper or knife to cut circle into 6 triangles. Transfer scones to your prepared baking sheet, arranging the wedges in a circle about 1-inch apart. Brush the scones with a little cream to help them brown.
- Bake for 14 to 16 minutes, until scones are baked through and lightly golden brown.
- Cool before glazing.
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, 1 tablespoon of the milk, maple extract, and salt. Add milk by the 1/4 teaspoon until glaze reaches a drizzling consistency and drizzle over scones. Allow glaze to set for 5 minutes and enjoy!
Notes
Recipe Adapted From King Arthur Flour
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission if you make a purchase using them. There is absolutely no additional cost to you.
Dawn - Girl Heart Food says
I haven’t heard of that show before, so thanks ago for another recommendation 😉 Scones are something that I love, but don’t make a lot of. These sound heavenly (couldn’t resist) and that maple glaze would probably taste good on just about anything! I’m going to have to whip these up soon, though I would love to have one in front of me right now and not just on my computer screen, lol. Pinned! Happy Monday, Tracy!
Tracy says
Thanks, Dawn!!
Marianne says
Has anyone tried the glaze using Maple Syrup instead of the extract?
Tracy says
Hi, Marianne. Replace the extract with 1/4 cup of maple syrup, and only add the milk (a little at a time) if the glaze is too thick. It will be a different consistency and have a milder maple flavor than the glaze shown, but should still taste delish.
Dena Taylor says
So glad you asked this question .. I was wondering the very same thing!!!
Margaret Karvala says
I was going to ask same question as I have no extract. My maple syrup is pure.
Laura says
Just found this blog because I’m watching The Good Place right now and immediately Googled for the recipe! I want to make these soon! Thanks!
Tracy says
Haha, that makes me so happy to hear! I hope you enjoy the scones (and the rest of the show–it’s soooooo goood!!!). Can’t wait to watch tonight’s premiere. 😉
Tabby says
Another person here because I googled while watching the show! Definitely making these at the first possible opportunity.
Tracy says
THIS MAKES ME SO HAPPY!!! 😉 Hope you enjoy them, Tabby!
Sara says
Hi!
Wondering if this glaze hardens?
Thanks!
Tracy says
Hi, Sara. It doesn’t get hard hard, but it does set (like donut glaze).
Emma says
I just made these last night and I’m already in love with them! I’ve never made scones before so I was worried about how they would come out, especially since my dough seemed rather crumbly, but they turned out perfectly! I ended up using the entire 3/4 cup of cream for them. I used Club House maple extract which left a bit of an aftertaste, but it’s not too strong. I would definitely recommend investing in a high quality maple extract to make these, which is what I’ll do next time.
I think my favourite part was getting to feel like Tahani for a short time 😉
Tracy says
I mean, who doesn’t want to feel like Tahani occasionally? 😉 I’m so happy you enjoyed them, and thanks for the maple tip. I totally agree!
Monique says
I want to take these to an Easter brunch. However, 6 isn’t enough. Do you think I could easily double (or triple) the recipe?
Tracy says
Hi, Monique, this recipe doubles/triples easily. If you double it, when you get to step 3, just divide the dough in half and shape it into two rounds instead of one so you still end up with scones that are the same size. And be sure to measure your flour using the method described in the recipe. 🙂
Lindsay says
Oh, these scones are amazing! I came across this recipe a couple weeks ago, and have made them at least 4 times so far. The glaze is super adaptable too; my favorite is substituting some of the powdered sugar for vanilla bean and adding almond extract instead of maple. Thank you for these delicious scones!
Tracy says
This makes me so happy to hear, Lindsay! And I love the idea of making an almond glaze. Totally trying that next time I make these!
Sean says
I ran across The Good Place on Netflix last night and upon watching the mentioned episode and hearing the words “Maple Butter Scones” I immediately Googled it lol.. funny stuff. I may have to try this. Sadly, I can chef just about anything after some trial and error, but for some reason “baking” completely eludes me. Can’t even cook biscuits without over-browning the bottoms hehe but like my great GrandPappy used to say, the 1,036th time is a charm! Thanks for the recipe =)
Tracy says
Lol. Love that that’s how you found this recipe! Hope you enjoy the scones, even if the bottoms get over-browned. 😉
Kim says
That is so funny, I was watching the show on Netflix and thought those scones sounded amazing! That is how I found your recipe. Can’t wait to try it!
Tracy says
LOL, it always makes me so happy when people find this recipe that way, because I love that show (and this recipe) SO MUCH! 🙂
Sarah says
I’m having a party tonight for the season 3 premiere and needed a Tahani dish (the other idea I had for her was a single Cheeto). Thank you so much! (We’re also having Chidi’s maafe, Eleanor’s shrampies and margaritas, and Jason’s jalapeno poppers.)
Tracy says
OMG, you are amazing. Can’t wait for the premiere, and hope everyone enjoys the scones!
Sara says
Can I use milk in place of the cream?
Tracy says
Hi, Sara, I’ve never made these with milk. Without further recipe testing, I couldn’t say for sure. Sorry!
Margie Dodrill says
These are so good and easy! Every time I have tried making scones in the past they were hard and could have been used as weapons! I’ve made three batches to give for the holidays and they return out perfectly.
Has anyone come up with any variations?
Tracy says
Lol! I have totally made batches of scones in the past that could do some damage as projectile weapons. Glad these turned out for you. One variation I like is to omit the glaze, sprinkle them with crunchy sugar before baking and eat them warm with butter and jam. You could also add some lemon or orange zest and do a citrus glaze like the ones in these muffins: https://bakingmischief.com/2017/07/28/small-batch-orange-muffins/ or add some chocolate chips to the batter.
Jeanne says
Absolutely the best and easiest scone recipe I have tried. I used whole wheat pastry flour (grabbed it by accident) and baked them for about 15 minutes and they turned out terrific. Also made the divine frosting and sprinkled finely chopped walnuts on top before the frosting set. Thank you SO much for this fabulous recipe !
Tracy says
Thanks, Jeanne! I’m so glad you enjoyed them, and to hear that they turn out with whole wheat pastry flour! 🙂
Debbie Fletcher says
I made these with whole wheat flour. I also used 4 tsp of maple syrup (the real stuff) in place of some of the milk, added a splash of vanilla extract & omitted the maple extract. The maple tastes was more subtle but they were delicious.
Sarah says
Great recipe! Comes together quickly and easily and the scones are delicious! I like to use half of the dough to make chocolate chip scones (hubby’s fav) and then do the maple glaze on the other half. Three of each flavor is perfect for the two of us to enjoy for a couple of days. Thank you!
Tracy says
So glad you both enjoyed then, Sarah!!
Tess says
I just made these. So delicious. Thank you.
Tracy says
I’m so happy to hear it, Tess!!
Karen Brown says
Searching for desserts for two and stumbled across your website. My first venture was the No Chill Small Batch Chocolate Chip cookies and they were so easy and amazing! Yours was the second recipe I tried and by far was so much better! I just pulled my first batch of these scones out of the oven and can’t wait to glaze and eat them! Thank you. I’m following you on Instagram too.
Tessa says
Oh my gosh whaaaat. I literally am watching The Good Place and the second they mentioned maple scones in episode 3 I was like, oh wow that looks so good and went straight to Pinterest to find a recipe only to land on yours. What are the odds of that?! Just wanted to share! I’ll be making these later this week for sure 🙂
Tracy says
LOL! I love it when people find these scones that way!!
Denise says
These were fantastic! They had a shortbread kind of texture which was wonderful. I put some crumbled cooked bacon on top of the glaze which made them out of this world yummy!
Tracy says
So glad you enjoyed them, Denise!
Lila says
Made these for breakfast today … only change I made was to add 1/2 tsp maple flavoring along with the vanilla in the scone mixture. They are delicious, and so quick and easy to make. Thanks!
Elle says
Amazing! Add the milk a bit at a time so the glaze isn’t to thin. I also cooled my scones on a rack. 10/10 so good
Tracy says
So glad you enjoyed them, Elle!!
Layla says
Hey! I tried making this yesterday, and it turned out great! It was fluffy, and not too sweet. I substituted the granulated sugar for brown sugar, and it turned out amazing!! Thank you so much for the recipe!
Tracy says
So happy to hear it, Layla!!
Chantal says
For a stronger taste of maple I will make this but substitute the granulated sugar by maple sugar and for the glazing I will use maple syrup instead. of extract. I wonder if it will be ok?
Tracy says
I haven’t baked with maple sugar before, so I can’t say how it would turn out. This article recommends against completely replacing granulated sugar with maple sugar so I might just sub it in for part of the sugar https://www.thekitchn.com/bakers-ingredient-spotlight-what-to-do-with-maple-sugar-182943 . For the glaze, you can use maple syrup, but it has a much less concentrated maple flavor than extract. Replace the extract with 1/4 cup of maple syrup and only add the milk (a little at a time) if the glaze is too thick.
Samantha says
Delicious! Everyone loved them and they said fresh and soft until the following day. I added cinnamon tl the dry ingredients and used brown sugar by adding it to the wet ingredients. Thanks for the recipe
Tracy says
Thanks, Samantha! I’m so glad to hear it!
Joleen says
Hi. I have made these delicious scones multiple times and everyone gives them 5?stars. I want to know if I can make them with whole wheat flour. Thanks
Rachel McMahan says
I love how these are called “small-batch” and I immediately tripled the recipe! LOL! I love maple and wanted to take scones to my Bible Study ladies. I hadn’t ever made a scone recipe without butter and eggs, so I was excited to try this method. They were so easy and tasted fantastic! I ended up needing to put a LOT more maple extract in the glaze to make it taste like maple, but that was probably due to the brand I was using. My glaze didn’t have the tan color like yours, but it tasted wonderful! Thank you so much!
Joleen says
These are so good, everyone that I give them to loves them. I did change up the topping, I mixed powdered sugar and pure organic maple syrup.
I have a question how would I alter this to make them blueberry lemon scones? Any recommendations?
Eila says
These scones were super easy, delicious, and impressive looking! I basically followed the recipe exactly (be sure to weigh ingredients where you can) and they came out beautiful. The only deviation I made was adding a little extra maple in the glaze because I LOVE maple. I’ll make these again for sure, and this is a very adaptable recipe.
Jo says
Just made these!! Yummy ;). Since I couldn’t refrigerate them I just made the icing with the powdered sugar and 1/4 cup maple syrup and it came out great. Thanks for the recipe!