Name: Delicious Banana Scones That Bring Joy to Breakfast Mornings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 68 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose flour (Spoon and level for best results.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor.); 1 tablespoon Baking powder (Helps with rising.); 0.5 teaspoon Baking soda (Contributes to rise.); 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon (Infuses flavor.); 0.25 teaspoon Ground nutmeg (Adds depth.); 0.5 cups Brown sugar (Provides sweetness.); 0.5 cups Cold unsalted butter (Cubed.); 2 medium Ripe bananas (Well-mashed.); 0.75 cups Heavy cream (For moist texture.); 1 teaspoon Pure vanilla extract (For flavor.); 1 large Egg (Binds the mixture.); 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar (For topping.); 4 oz Cream cheese (Room temperature.); 1 cup Powdered sugar (For sweetness.); 1-2 tablespoons Milk (Adjust consistency as needed.); 0.5 teaspoon Ground cinnamon (Ties flavor with scones.); 0.5 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Enhances glaze.)

As I rummaged through my kitchen one rainy afternoon, the scent of ripe bananas transformed the space into a cozy haven. This inspired me to whip up a batch of Cinnamon Banana Scones, perfect for brightening up our day. With their delicate balance of spiced sweetness and moist texture, these scones can be a quick breakfast or an indulgent treat with afternoon tea. What’s even better? They’re incredibly easy to make and require just a handful of ingredients! Imagine serving these warm, drizzled with a luscious cream cheese glaze that adds an irresistible touch. Whether you’re stepping away from fast food or looking to elevate your brunch game, these banana scones are the delicious answer. Curious about how to make your mornings a little sweeter? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why Are These Banana Scones Irresistible?

Unmatched Flavor: The warm blend of ground cinnamon and ripe bananas creates an unforgettable taste experience that’s comforting and delightful.

Quick and Easy: This recipe boasts simple steps that lead to fluffy scones in no time, perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.

Versatile Treat: Pair them with coffee, tea, or your favorite breakfast spread for a delicious twist. You can also experiment by adding chocolate chips or nuts for added delight!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just enjoying a quiet morning at home, these banana scones are sure to impress everyone who tries them!

Banana Scone Ingredients

For the Scones

All-purpose flour – Provides the structure and body needed for perfect scones; remember to spoon and level it for best results.
Salt – A crucial addition that enhances flavor and ensures a perfect balance with the sweetness.
Baking powder – Helps the scones rise beautifully, giving them a light and fluffy texture.
Baking soda – Works with the bananas, contributing to an ideal rise and texture.
Ground cinnamon – Infuses the scones with a warm, sweet flavor that complements the bananas perfectly.
Ground nutmeg – Adds a subtle nutty depth that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
Brown sugar – Provides moisture and sweetness; use light or dark depending on your preference.
Unsalted butter – Creates that coveted flakiness; make sure it’s cold and cubed to keep the scones from spreading.
Ripe bananas – These act as a natural sweetener and vital moisture provider; ensure they are well-mashed for even distribution.
Heavy cream – Essential for producing that soft, moist scone texture that we all love.
Pure vanilla extract – Adds a lovely depth and richness to the overall flavor.
Egg – Binds all the ingredients together, ensuring a sturdy yet tender scone.
Granulated sugar – Sprinkled on top for a sweet and textured finish.

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

Cream cheese – The rich base for the glaze, it should be at room temperature for easy blending.
Powdered sugar – Sweetens the glaze and helps achieve that smooth, velvety texture.
Milk – Adjusts the consistency to your liking; can be swapped for a dairy-free alternative if desired.
Ground cinnamon – Reinforces the warm flavor, tying the glaze back to the delicious scones.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the glaze, making every bite even more delightful.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Banana Scones

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and ½ cup of brown sugar. Whisk these dry ingredients thoroughly until well combined, ensuring the mixture is light and airy. Set the bowl aside as you prepare the other components of the banana scones.

Step 2: Prepare Bananas & Butter
In a small bowl, mash 2 ripe bananas until smooth, leaving no large lumps. Then, cut ½ cup of cold unsalted butter into small cubes. To maintain its cold temperature, place the butter cubes in the freezer for about 10 minutes, which will help create the flakiness needed for the scones.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the cold butter cubes to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture in your cinnamon banana scones, so take your time to ensure even distribution before proceeding.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Gently fold in the mashed bananas, along with 1 beaten egg, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and ¾ cup of heavy cream, into the dry mixture. Stir until just combined; be careful not to over-knead the dough, as it should remain slightly crumbly with some flour bits still visible. This preserves the lightness of the banana scones.

Step 5: Shape Dough
Transfer the dough onto a parchment-lined cookie sheet. Shape it into a 7-inch round circle, taking care to maintain an even thickness. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 equal triangles, but do not separate them completely. Freeze the shaped dough for 20 minutes to allow it to firm up, which will help maintain shape during baking.

Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). After the dough has chilled, brush the tops generously with heavy cream and sprinkle granulated sugar over them for added sweetness and texture. Place the scones in the preheated oven and bake for 25–28 minutes, until they turn a beautiful golden brown and rise slightly.

Step 7: Cool and Prepare Glaze
Once baked, allow the cinnamon banana scones to cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes. While they cool, prepare the cream cheese glaze by mixing together 4 oz. of room temperature cream cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1-2 tablespoons of milk, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and drizzle generously over the cooled scones.

Storage Tips for Banana Scones

Room Temperature: Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: Freeze unglazed banana scones for up to 30 days. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a resealable bag to prevent freezer burn.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the scones in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours before glazing.

Reheating: For a warm treat, pop scones in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–10 minutes, or until heated through; this will restore their deliciously soft texture.

Expert Tips for Perfect Banana Scones

Chill Your Butter: Ensure butter is very cold, ideally frozen for a short time, to help create the perfect flaky texture in your banana scones.

Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined; over-kneading will lead to dense scones. Keep an eye on your dough for the right texture!

Proper Measuring: Spoon and level your flour accurately—this prevents excess dryness that can affect final scone texture.

Slice Carefully: When shaping dough, use a sharp knife for clean cuts to ensure a beautiful rise and shape in your cinnamon banana scones.

Freeze for Shape: Freezing shaped dough helps maintain the scone shape during baking, delivering a beautiful rise and soft edges.

Banana Scones Variations & Substitutions

Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists on the classic banana scone recipe!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and replace butter with vegan butter for a plant-based treat.
Nutty Crust: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a delightful nutty flavor. Almonds would also work beautifully!
Chocolate Lovers: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet, gooey surprise in each bite. You could even use dark chocolate for a richer flavor contrast.
Maple Sweetness: Swap brown sugar for maple sugar or use pure maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a lovely maple twist that enhances those warm spices.
Citrus Zing: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the dough to bring a fresh brightness that harmonizes perfectly with the banana flavor.
Spicy Kick: For those who like a little heat, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely grated ginger. It’ll add an intriguing warmth that surprises the palate!
Pumpkin Spice: Incorporate ½ cup of pumpkin puree into the dough and adjust the spices with additional cinnamon, nutmeg, and a dash of cloves for a seasonal touch.
Glaze Variations: Instead of cinnamon in the cream cheese glaze, try adding a touch of espresso powder or orange zest to customize the finish of your scones.

These variations not only enhance flavors but also create a unique experience every time you bake. If you’re leaning towards lighter options, you might enjoy my tips on making nutritious substitutes in another delicious scone recipe. Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Banana Scones are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked flavors without the stress during busy mornings! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the shaping step, then freeze the unbaked scones. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly fluffy and flavorful banana scones. This way, you can savor delicious scones with minimal effort, just as much loved with the creamy glaze drizzled on top!

What to Serve with Easy Cinnamon Banana Scones

Indulge in a delightful morning spread that pairs perfectly with the warming flavors of your scones.

Butter and Jam: A classic pairing that adds richness and sweetness, making each bite of the banana scones even more delightful.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweetness of the scones beautifully.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup enhances the cozy experience, complementing the cinnamon notes in a way that warms your soul.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with your favorite berries for a breakfast that offers textures and flavors to elevate your scones.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle maple syrup over the warm scones for a delightful twist on breakfast.
Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream on the side creates a dreamy, indulgent moment that’s sure to impress all at your table.

These pairings will create a memorable breakfast that transforms your mornings into something truly special!

Cinnamon Banana Scones Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for bananas that are mostly yellow with a few brown spots. The more ripe they are, the sweeter your scones will be. Avoid bananas that have dark brown skins or are overly soft as they may be overripe and spoil your scones’ flavor.

How should I store the banana scones?
I recommend storing your scones at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and tasty. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them unglazed up to 30 days—just wrap them well to prevent freezer burn!

Can I freeze the banana scones? How?
Yes, you can definitely freeze your banana scones! After baking and cooling, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours. This ensures they retain their delightful texture!

What if my dough is too sticky or dry?
Very good question! If your dough is too sticky, try adding a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. If it’s too dry, add a splash of heavy cream to bring it together. Remember, the dough should be slightly crumbly but still hold together when packed.

Are these banana scones suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! If you’re looking for gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. For a dairy-free version, swap butter with a solid dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may slightly vary, but they’ll still be delicious!

Can my pets enjoy these banana scones?
Not really. While bananas are safe for pets in small amounts, the other ingredients in these scones, like sugar and butter, aren’t ideal for them. It’s best to keep these treats for your breakfast table only and offer your pets plain banana pieces instead!