Carrot Cake Scones

| | | |

This post may contain affiliate links. Read full disclosure.

Carrot cake scones combine the cozy warmth and spice of carrot cake with the crumbly texture of a classic scone. This flaky, buttery goodness is topped with luscious cream cheese frosting and chopped walnuts. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat.

📌 Pin Carrot Cake Scones

Carrot Cake Scones with yummy cream cheese frosting.

👩🏻‍🍳 Why This Recipe’s a Keeper

  • Unique Flavor Combination: The grated carrots add natural moisture to the scones, ensuring they are tender and moist, reminiscent of classic carrot cake. And combining the flavors of carrot cake with the crumbly texture of scones creates a unique and irresistible treat that’s both comforting and indulgent.
  • Cream Cheese Frosting: The creamy and tangy cream cheese frosting takes these scones to the next level, adding richness and decadence to each bite.
  • Easy to Make: Despite their gourmet appearance, these scones are relatively easy to make with simple ingredients. You can even prep the scone dough in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer, allowing for convenient make-ahead baking.
  • Versatility: Carrot cake scones are a favorite for Easter brunch. But they can also be enjoyed any time of year for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or as a sweet snack with tea or coffee. They’re a versatile addition to any menu or occasion.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: These carrot cake scones with cream cheese frosting will impress family and friends with their beautiful presentation and delicious flavor, making them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Everyone will be coming back for more!
Best Scone Recipe

🛒 Ingredients

🥕 For Carrot Cake Scones

  • All-purpose flour: Provides structure and texture to the scones.
  • Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the scones and balances the flavors.
  • Baking powder: Acts as a leavening agent, helping the scones rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the scones, reminiscent of carrot cake.
  • Ground Nutmeg: Adds a subtle nuttiness and spicy-sweet aroma that complements the sweetness of the carrots and other spices. It also balances the sweetness of the scones by providing a slightly bitter undertone that ensures a harmonious flavor balance.
  • Ground Ginger: Similar to nutmeg, ginger contributes warmth to the scones, imparting a comforting sensation reminiscent of classic carrot cake.
  • Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the scones.
  • Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the scones, while also contributing to their flakiness.
  • Carrots: Infuses the scones with moisture, sweetness, and a vibrant orange color, characteristic of carrot cake.
  • Shredded sweetened coconut: Provides texture and a hint of sweetness to the scones, complementing the flavors of carrot and cinnamon.
  • Chopped walnuts: Add crunch, texture, and nutty flavor to the scones, reminiscent of traditional carrot cake.
  • Pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the scones, adding depth and warmth, and a delicious bakery aroma.
  • Large egg: Acts as a binding agent, helping to hold the scone dough together.
  • Heavy whipping cream: Adds moisture and richness to the scone dough, resulting in tender and flavorful scones.
  • Egg wash: One large egg whisked with a splash of heavy cream. We brush it on top of the scones before baking to create a golden-brown crust and add a bit of glossy shine.
Cream cheese icing for carrot cake scones.

🥣 For Cream Cheese Frosting

  • Cream cheese: Forms the base of the creamy and tangy frosting, providing richness and a tangy flavor.
  • Butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the cream cheese frosting.
  • Pure Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
  • Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese frosting, creating a smooth and spreadable texture.
Carrot cake scones on a baking tray.

📖 Recipe Steps

🥕 Make Carrot Cake Scones

Recipe Prep: Place the cold grated butter the freezer for 10 minutes. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large baking tray with parchment paper (or a reusable silicone baking mat).

  1. In a large mixing bowl, add the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and salt. Use a whisk to combine. Add in the cold grated butter. With clean hands, toss to coat. Add in the grated carrot, shredded coconut, and walnuts. Stir to incorporate.
  2. Add the egg, vanilla, and heavy cream. Stir and fold the dough until it’s just moistened.
  3. Turn the dough onto a heavily floured surface. With well-floured hands, knead it for one minute (about 8-10 times). Pat down the dough and shape it into an 8-inch circle. With a bench scraper or a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 equal-sized wedges. Arrange the scones on the baking tray, 2 inches apart.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 large egg and 1 tablespoon heavy cream. Brush this egg wash over the tops and sides of each scone.
  5. Bake the scones for 12-15 minutes, or until golden blonde. Transfer them to a cooling rack.
How to Make Scones

🥣 Make Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, whip together the softened cream cheese and softened butter. Add vanilla and powdered sugar. Starting on a low setting and gradually increasing the speed, whip the cream cheese frosting until it’s beautifully smooth.
  2. Drizzle frosting onto the scones from a spoon, or use a piping bag with a round metal tip. If desired, sprinkle the frosting with some chopped walnuts.
Carrot Cake Scones with cream cheese icing and chopped walnuts.

🧑🏼‍🍳 Recipe FAQ

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in this recipe. However, keep in mind that whole wheat flour may result in slightly denser scones. You can also use a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a balance of flavor and texture.

Yes, you can prepare the scone dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Alternatively, you can freeze the shaped scones before baking and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Yes, you can omit the chopped walnuts if you prefer or if you have nut allergies. The scones will still be delicious without them, or you can substitute them with an equal amount of raisins, shredded coconut, or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.

While cream cheese frosting complements the flavors of carrot cake scones beautifully, you can certainly use a different frosting if you prefer. Consider a simple vanilla glaze, cinnamon icing, or even a drizzle of melted white chocolate for a delicious alternative.

The key to achieving the perfect texture for the scones is to handle the dough gently and avoid overmixing. Be sure to use cold butter and avoid overworking the dough, as this can result in tough scones. Additionally, make sure your oven is properly preheated to ensure even baking.

Yes, you can certainly make mini scones by shaping the dough into smaller rounds and adjusting the baking time accordingly. Keep in mind that mini scones will bake faster, so check them for doneness a few minutes earlier than the suggested baking time for larger scones.

Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you prefer, you can also store them in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life. Reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven for a few minutes before serving.

Easter carrot cake scones with icing.

📝 Expert Tips

  • Use Cold Butter: Ensure your butter is cold when incorporating it into the dry ingredients. Cold butter helps create a flaky texture in the scones by creating pockets of steam as it melts during baking. As you prepare this recipe, your butter will naturally start to soften. To combat this, stick the butter into the freezer for 10-15 minutes before you need it.
  • Grate the Butter: This makes it easier to incorporate the butter into the flour mixture.
  • Grate Carrots Finely: Grate the carrots finely to ensure they blend seamlessly into the scone dough and distribute evenly throughout each bite. This also helps the carrots release their moisture more effectively, keeping the scones moist and flavorful.
  • Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix the scone dough until it just comes together. Overmixing can lead to tough and dense scones. It’s okay if the dough is slightly shaggy; this will result in tender scones with a crumbly texture.
  • Brush with Egg Wash: Before baking, brush the tops of the scones with an egg wash made of beaten egg and a splash of heavy cream, milk or water. This gives the scones a beautiful golden-brown crust and adds shine to the finished product.
  • Preheat the Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking the scones. A properly preheated oven ensures even baking and helps the scones rise properly.
  • High Oven Temp: The baking powder in these carrot cake scones can provide a powerful lift during the first few minutes of baking! The secret is using the right temperature to maximize lift. Here’s how to do it: Set your oven to 500°F. Once you stick the scones into the oven, immediately lower the heat to 425°F. The initial higher heat will compensate for heat lost when opening the oven. Your scones will bake at the perfect temperature!
  • Let Scones Cool Completely: Allow the scones to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting them. Frosted scones should also be cooled before serving to prevent the frosting from melting.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients for Frosting: For the cream cheese frosting, make sure the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. Room temperature ingredients blend more easily and result in a smoother frosting.
  • Adjust Frosting Consistency: If the cream cheese frosting is too thick, add a little milk or cream, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until thickened.
  • Store Properly: Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If storing for longer, refrigerate the scones and allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Scones Recipe for Easter Brunch.

☀️ More Delicious Morning Treats

Carrot Cake Scones on a copper cooling rack.

Rate This Recipe ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Recipe review from a flavor tester: “Absolutely divine! These carrot cake scones with cream cheese frosting are heavenly. The scones are moist and loaded with carrots and spices, while the creamy frosting adds the perfect finishing touch. A must-try for any carrot cake lover!”

If you agree this recipe’s a keeper, give it a 5-star rating in the comments. Then be a recipe hero. Share it with friends. 📌 Pin it to Pinterest.

Yummy recipe for scones.
Gold Line: Sprinkles of Inspiration | confettiandbliss.com
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Scones Recipe for Easter Brunch.

Carrot Cake Scones


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 25 reviews

Save Recipe

Description

These carrot cake scones are tender and delicious, bursting with grated carrots and warm spices. They’re finished with a luscious cream cheese glaze for an extra touch of sweetness. If desired, sprinkle some chopped walnuts on top.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For Carrot Cake Scones

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup cold butter, grated
  • 1 cup finely-grated carrots
  • 1/3 cup shredded sweetened coconut
  • 1/3 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream

For Brushing

  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream

Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 6 ounces cream cheese
  • 1/4 cup butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

For Carrot Cake Scones

Recipe Prep: Place the cold grated butter the freezer for 10 minutes. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large baking tray with parchment paper (or a reusable silicone baking mat). 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, add the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and salt. Use a whisk to combine. Add in the cold grated butter. With clean hands, toss to coat. Add in the grated carrot, shredded coconut, and walnuts. Stir to incorporate.
  2. Add the egg, vanilla, and heavy cream. Stir and fold the dough until it’s just moistened.
  3. Turn the dough onto a heavily floured surface. With well-floured hands, knead it for one minute (about 8-10 times). Pat down the dough and shape it into an 8-inch circle. With a bench scraper or a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 equal-sized wedges. Arrange the scones on the baking tray, 2 inches apart.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 large egg and 1 tablespoon heavy cream. Brush this egg wash over the tops and sides of each scone.
  5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the top of the scones are golden blonde. Transfer them to a cooling rack. 

For Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, whip together the softened cream cheese and softened butter. Add vanilla and powdered sugar. Starting on a low setting and gradually increasing the speed, whip the cream cheese frosting until it’s beautifully smooth.
  2. Drizzle frosting onto the scones from a spoon, or use a piping bag with a round metal tip. If desired, sprinkle the frosting with some chopped walnuts.

Notes

Can I omit nuts from the recipe? Yes, you can omit the chopped walnuts if you prefer or if you have nut allergies. The scones will still be delicious without them, or you can substitute them with an equal amount of raisins, shredded coconut, or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.

Expert baking tip: The baking powder in these scones can provide a powerful lift during the first few minutes of baking. The secret is using the right temperature to maximize lift. Here’s how to do it: Set your oven to 500°F. Once you stick the scones into the oven, immediately lower the heat to 425°F. The initial higher heat will compensate for heat lost when opening the oven. Your scones will bake at the perfect temperature!

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 14 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Bake
  • Cuisine: American
Gold Line: Sprinkles of Inspiration | confettiandbliss.com

Carrot Cake Scones 👉🏻 Join the Conversation

Are you excited to make this easy recipe? Will it be for breakfast, brunch, snacking, or for Easter Sunday? Share your thoughts on these carrot cake scones in the comments below. I’d love to hear from you!

Carrot Cake Scones

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

44 Comments

    1. Good morning Anna. Yes! You can freeze the scones after baking, but preferably without the icing. After you defrost and warm them in the oven, drizzle the icing on top!

  1. This looks so good! I have never heard of carrot cake scones before! My mother is obsessed with Carrot Cake, so I bet she would love these






  2. These sound so incredible and they look mega scrumptious. Love how easy they are to come together my mom would adore these for mothers day






  3. LOVE this, and love the idea of grating the butter. I always cut it into cubes, which makes it really difficult to work with – but grating it is geeenius. I’ve never had scones before. I wonder if I could tweak these a bit to make them gluten-free..

  4. This looks so delightful and tasty. This is so good, this will be a huge hit! I will try making this for sure.

  5. I love scones and this variation was fantastic. It was much lighter than a carrot cake but still delicious. The glaze – I think my eldest licked it off the top he loved it so much.