Salted Caramel Apple Scones combine the classic comfort of a tender, buttery scone with the irresistible flavors of juicy apples and indulgent salted caramel. Scones have their roots in British baking tradition and are widely enjoyed around the world as a treat for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea.

With their signature crumbly texture, scones adapt well to a range of mix-ins and toppings, but few variations offer the mouthwatering appeal of salted caramel and apple. This fusion merges the tart freshness of apples with luxuriously sweet and salty caramel-an autumnal match made in culinary heaven.

Whether crafted for a festive family gathering, a cozy weekend morning, or a creative twist on the classic scone, these Salted Caramel Apple Scones never fail to impress.

Each bite features pieces of crisp apple enveloped in a fluffy yet sturdy base, with ribbons of homemade salted caramel drizzled on top to create depth and a hint of complexity.

The salted caramel element takes this traditional pastry to new heights by balancing sweetness with savory notes and enhancing the apples' natural flavors. As comfort food goes, the scone is unrivaled for versatility and satisfaction, and this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.

Perfect for fall, holidays, or any day you crave a bakery-style breakfast treat, Salted Caramel Apple Scones are simple to make and even easier to enjoy. Follow this guide to learn everything from essential ingredients to pairing suggestions and helpful baking tips.

By the end, you'll have a gourmet-worthy scone that's both eye-catching and utterly delicious, offering a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that are certain to delight.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
⅓ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon fine sea salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
1 large egg

½ cup sour cream
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup peeled, cored, and finely diced tart apples (such as Granny Smith)
½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

½ teaspoon flaky sea salt (for topping)
1 tablespoon milk or heavy cream (for brushing)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, sea salt, and ground cinnamon.
Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Pour into the flour mixture and mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Fold in the diced apples gently, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.
Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead briefly to bring it together. Shape into a 7-inch round disk about 1 inch thick.
Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the disk into 8 equal wedges and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing apart.
Lightly brush the tops of the scones with milk or heavy cream for a golden finish.

Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and let scones cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Warm the caramel sauce slightly if needed. Drizzle generously over cooled scones and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
Serve warm or at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information

Each Salted Caramel Apple Scone offers a delightful balance of flavor and essential nutrients, making it both a treat and a hearty snack. A single scone contains approximately 325-370 calories, primarily from carbohydrates and fats, which provide energy and satiety.

The apples contribute natural dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, supporting digestion and immune health. The sour cream and butter add calcium and vitamin A, important for bone health and vision. The eggs provide protein and additional vitamins, rounding out the nutrition profile.

Keep in mind that caramel sauce adds sugar and calories, so those monitoring their sugar intake may wish to drizzle lightly. While scones are not typically considered a low-calorie or low-fat food, this recipe includes wholesome ingredients like fresh fruit and moderate amounts of sugar.

For those seeking a lighter version, substitutions can be made, such as using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, reducing the caramel drizzle, or opting for a whole wheat flour blend to add fiber.

Overall, Salted Caramel Apple Scones are best enjoyed as a satisfying and occasional indulgence, particularly suited to breakfast or as an afternoon pick-me-up alongside your favorite beverage.

When enjoyed in moderation, this treat offers both nourishment and comfort, with a flavorful twist on traditional scones that adds pleasure to any meal or snack time.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

Salted Caramel Apple Scones pair beautifully with a range of beverages. For a comforting breakfast, serve them alongside a freshly brewed cup of medium-roast coffee or a spicy chai tea.

If you're preferring a cold option, try an apple cider or a caramel iced latte to echo the flavors in the scones. For a more indulgent experience, a homemade vanilla latte, hot chocolate, or cinnamon-spiced milk complements the caramel notes.

When serving at brunch or afternoon tea, enjoy with a lightly sweet dessert wine like Moscato d'Asti or a crisp cider for those seeking an alcoholic pairing. Select drinks that balance the scone's sweetness and enhance the comforting, autumnal flavors.

Cooking Tips and Variations

For bakery-style Salted Caramel Apple Scones, focus on using cold butter and working quickly to keep the dough cool; this helps showcase the scones' signature flakiness and rise.

Consider using a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor, peeling and chopping the fruit just before folding it into the dough to prevent browning.

If you prefer a homemade caramel, simmer sugar, butter, and cream on the stovetop with a sprinkle of flaky salt for a fresh, rich topping. To boost the salted caramel flavor, try adding half the caramel sauce into the dough and reserving the rest for drizzling.

Variations could include mixing in chopped pecans, walnuts, dried cranberries, or even a touch of ginger for extra warmth. For a healthier twist, replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or experiment with coconut sugar as a natural sweetener.

If you're baking for a crowd, the scone dough can be doubled and divided into smaller disks for mini scones-perfect for parties. Always allow baked scones to cool slightly before topping with caramel to prevent it from becoming too runny.

Lastly, these scones can be stored for up to two days in an airtight container or frozen (unglazed) and reheated before adding caramel and salt.

Serving Suggestions

To serve Salted Caramel Apple Scones in the most appealing way, arrange them on a platter lined with a crisp tea towel or parchment for a cozy, rustic look. These scones are best enjoyed slightly warm, either fresh from the oven or gently reheated before serving.

The texture is at its peak soon after baking, with a crisp outer crust and soft, tender middle. If serving for brunch or a holiday gathering, garnish the platter with thin apple slices, cinnamon sticks, or a sprinkle of confectioners' sugar for a festive touch.

Pair each scone with a small ramekin of extra caramel sauce so guests can drizzle to taste. For an added layer of luxury, offer softly whipped cream, crème fraîche, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the scones, especially when serving as a dessert.

These scones can also be neatly packaged as gifts. Allow them to cool completely, wrap individually, and tie with twine or ribbon for a lovely homemade treat. For events, you can cut the scones into smaller triangles pre-baking to make bite-sized portions more suitable for tea parties or gatherings.

When enjoying at home, savor the scone with your chosen beverage, taking time to appreciate the layered textures and flavors with each bite. Their rich caramel drizzle and tender apple bursts are sure to impress at any table.

Health Benefits

Apples are at the heart of this recipe, providing a natural source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and a range of antioxidants known for supporting immune health and reducing inflammation. Using fresh apples rather than dried or processed fruit maximizes these health benefits.

While traditional salted caramel includes sugar and butter, incorporating it in moderation allows you to enjoy the scones' decadent taste without excessive calorie intake. Choosing sour cream or Greek yogurt base for the dough contributes probiotics and additional protein, supporting digestive health.

The use of eggs adds high-quality protein, vitamins D and B12, along with healthy fats. For those seeking a more nutritious version, consider reducing the amount of granulated sugar or caramel, or substituting with coconut sugar for a gentler glycemic impact.

Choosing whole wheat flour or including oats can further increase fiber content, aiding in longer-lasting satiety. Remember, the best health strategy is balance-Salted Caramel Apple Scones can provide enjoyment, comfort, and essential nutrients within a varied and wholesome diet, especially when served with nutrient-rich accompaniments like fresh fruit or yogurt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Scones in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the scone dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours or freeze it (shaped but unbaked) for up to one month. Bake straight from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time. Caramel and salt drizzle should be added just before serving.

What type of apples works best for this recipe?

Tart, firm apples such as Granny Smith are ideal for Salted Caramel Apple Scones. They hold their shape during baking and offer a nice contrast to the sweet caramel topping.

Can I make these scones gluten-free?

Absolutely. Substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour in equal measure. Make sure all other ingredients, including baking powder and caramel sauce, are certified gluten-free.

How should I store leftover scones?

Keep leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently in an oven or toaster oven before drizzling with additional caramel if desired.

Can I substitute the caramel sauce with another topping?

Yes, you can use honey, maple syrup, or a dusting of cinnamon sugar as alternatives if you prefer a lighter or different flavor profile.

Salted Caramel Apple Scones are a delicious twist on a beloved classic, delivering the perfect blend of tart apples, buttery pastry, and rich, salted caramel. Each scone offers a celebration of autumn flavors and comforting textures, ensuring they become a favorite at your table for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or shared at a gathering, this recipe is sure to evoke smiles and requests for seconds. Don't hesitate to personalize the scones with your favorite mix-ins, flours, or serving suggestions-the possibilities are as boundless as your creativity. By following these simple steps, baking expert tips, and thoughtful serving ideas, your Salted Caramel Apple Scones will always hit the mark for flavor, presentation, and enjoyment.