Flaky apricot scones are the perfect marriage of buttery layers and fruity sweetness. Whether you’re planning a cozy weekend brunch or just craving a homemade treat that feels a little fancy, this scone recipe checks all the boxes. Easy to make, utterly satisfying, and beautifully layered with dried apricots and almond glaze, these golden pastries will elevate your baking game—no special skills required. In this article, you’ll learn everything from choosing the right ingredients to mastering the folding technique that gives scones their signature flaky texture. Plus, we’ll cover common mistakes to avoid and tips to customize your scones with flair.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Easy Fresh Peach Fritters with Vanilla Glaze to sweeten your brunch table even more.
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Why Flaky Apricot Scones Deserve a Spot in Your Baking Repertoire
A nostalgic bite with a fruity twist
Flaky apricot scones offer more than just great flavor—they evoke a sense of comfort, tradition, and nostalgia. Think of them as the more sophisticated cousin of the classic biscuit. Each bite delivers warm, buttery layers that break apart tenderly, while diced dried apricots add pockets of chewy sweetness that surprise and delight. Unlike overly sugary pastries, these scones strike a beautiful balance between sweet and savory, making them ideal for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea.
Health perks of dried apricots in baking
Aside from taste, dried apricots bring a healthy boost to this flaky pastry. They’re naturally sweet, rich in dietary fiber, potassium, and antioxidants like beta-carotene. Using dried fruit reduces the need for excess sugar and keeps moisture balanced in the dough. This makes your scones not just flavorful, but also slightly more nutrient-dense than the average bakery pastry.
When to serve scones for maximum wow-factor
These flaky apricot scones shine on Mother’s Day brunch tables, Easter mornings, or cozy holiday breakfasts. They’re also perfect for casual gatherings, bridal showers, or simply served warm with tea on a chilly Sunday. With a drizzle of almond glaze and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, they look bakery-worthy—and taste even better fresh out of the oven.
Don’t miss our Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake Recipe for another crowd-pleasing seasonal bake.
Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need for Perfect Apricot Scones
Pantry basics and fresh must-haves
To make these light, buttery scones from scratch, you’ll need a few baking staples and some flavorful extras. Here’s what goes into the perfect flaky apricot scone:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3 cups | Provides structure |
| Baking powder | 2 ½ tsp | Lifts the dough |
| Cold whole milk | 1 cup | Moisture & tenderness |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ cup | Sweetness |
| Sea salt | 1 tsp | Balances flavors |
| Unsalted butter | 12 tbsp (divided) | Creates flakes |
| Dried apricots (diced) | ½ cup | Chewy, sweet bits |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup | Base for glaze |
| Almond extract | ¼ tsp | Glaze flavor |
| Warm water | As needed | To thin the glaze |
These ingredients combine to deliver a perfect balance of crumbly exterior, moist interior, and fruity zing.
Choosing the best dried apricots for flavor and texture
Opt for dried apricots that are soft, plump, and unsweetened if possible. Turkish apricots are a popular choice for their rich, honeyed flavor. Chop them finely so they distribute evenly throughout the dough and soften during baking without overpowering each bite.
Check out Peach Bars – Delicious Recipe for more fruity baked treats using dried fruit.
Essential baking tools that make a difference
While scones don’t require any fancy equipment, using the right tools makes the process smoother and the results more consistent:
- Pastry cutter: Crucial for cutting cold butter into flour
- Bench scraper: Helps with folding and shaping the dough
- Rolling pin: Gently flattens without overworking
- Baking sheet + parchment paper: Ensures even browning and easy cleanup
- Sharp knife or dough cutter: For clean cuts and uniform size
Want to get better at shaping and handling dough? Learn more about smart prep tools in our Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake guide.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Flaky Apricot Scones
Mixing the dough for ideal flakiness
Start by whisking flour and baking powder in a bowl. Cut 10 tablespoons of ice-cold butter into small cubes and blend into the flour using a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Separately, whisk milk, sugar, and salt until dissolved, then add it to the flour mixture. Stir gently with a fork until the dough just comes together—it should be shaggy, not smooth.
Folding technique to create buttery layers
On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 14×8″ rectangle. Spread with softened butter and sprinkle evenly with chopped dried apricots. Now fold the dough like a letter: top third down, bottom third up over it. Fold once more crosswise and gently press or roll into an 8×4″ rectangle. This folding technique is key to the layers in your flaky apricot scones.
Cutting and baking tips for golden results
Cut the dough into 8 even squares. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes until golden and puffed. Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly before drizzling the glaze. You’ll be rewarded with beautiful scones featuring golden edges, delicate layers, and that signature almond-sweet aroma.
Discover great ideas like our Peach Brioche Recipe if you’re craving more brunch-worthy bakes.
Icing and Glazing Ideas to Elevate Your Scones
Almond glaze that complements apricot perfectly
What takes flaky apricot scones from great to irresistible? A light drizzle of almond glaze. The floral, nutty notes of almond extract pair beautifully with sweet apricots, enhancing their flavor without overwhelming it. To make a simple glaze, whisk 1 cup of powdered sugar with ¼ teaspoon almond extract and just enough warm water to reach a pourable consistency. Drizzle generously over slightly warm scones so it melts into every crevice.
Optional mix-ins for added flair
If you want to add a creative spin to your scones, consider mixing in chopped toasted almonds, a pinch of cardamom, or even orange zest. These small additions can give your apricot scones a gourmet twist, whether you’re baking for brunch or gifting a homemade batch.
When and how to drizzle for best texture
Timing matters: glaze the scones when they’re slightly warm but not hot. This allows the icing to cling without melting completely. If serving later, wait until scones are fully cooled before adding the glaze to preserve that beautiful finish and prevent sogginess.
Looking for another citrus-glazed treat? Don’t miss our Orange Monkey Bread Recipe—a zesty crowd-pleaser.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Scones
Why cold butter is non-negotiable
Cold butter is essential to creating layers in your scone dough. When the dough hits the hot oven, the cold butter melts and steams, forming pockets of flakiness. If your butter softens before baking, you’ll end up with dense, cakey scones. Always chill your cut dough in the fridge for 15 minutes before baking if your kitchen runs warm.
Overworking the dough ruins the magic
Less is more when it comes to mixing. Stir only until the dough holds together; overmixing activates gluten, making your scones tough. During the folding stage, handle the dough gently and avoid re-rolling scraps too many times.
Baking time and temperature hacks
Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 375°F before sliding the tray in. Use parchment paper to prevent burnt bottoms and check for doneness by lightly tapping the top—scones should sound hollow and feel firm. If your oven browns unevenly, rotate the tray halfway through for even color.
Want another perfectly baked recipe? Check out our Vanilla Bean Brown Butter Cheesecake for the ultimate dessert finale.
Creative Ways to Serve and Store Flaky Apricot Scones
Serving suggestions for brunch and beyond
Pair warm apricot scones with clotted cream, whipped honey butter, or even Greek yogurt for a balanced spread. They’re delicious served alongside herbal tea, cappuccino, or fresh-squeezed juice. For a brunch board, add berries, jam, and hard cheeses to elevate presentation.
How to store and reheat without drying them out
Once cooled, store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap a scone loosely in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 5–8 minutes. Avoid microwaving—they lose their flaky texture quickly.
Can you freeze scones? Yes, here’s how
Absolutely! Freeze baked scones (without glaze) in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months. To enjoy, let them thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat straight from frozen in the oven at 325°F for 10–12 minutes. Glaze after reheating for best results.
Looking for a freezer-friendly option? Try our Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies that store just as beautifully.
FAQs About Apricot Scones
Why are my scones not flaky?
Flakiness comes from two key things: cold butter and minimal mixing. If your butter melted into the flour before baking or you kneaded the dough too much, the layers won’t develop. Always handle the dough with care and keep ingredients cold.
Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried?
While dried apricots are ideal for consistent sweetness and texture, you can use fresh apricots. Just be sure to chop them finely and pat them dry. Note: fresh fruit releases more moisture, which can alter the dough slightly. Add a touch more flour if needed.
How long do homemade scones last?
Fresh scones are best eaten within 1–2 days. After that, their texture starts to decline. For longer storage, freeze them before glazing and warm just before serving.
What’s the difference between scones and biscuits?
Biscuits are generally flakier and less sweet, often served with savory meals. Scones, especially flaky apricot scones, are sweeter, sometimes glazed, and often include fruits or flavorings. Their dough is also richer, often including eggs or more sugar.
Conclusion: Make These Buttery Flaky Apricot Scones Today
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, buttery scone layered with sweet apricots and kissed with almond glaze. This recipe is approachable, foolproof, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re baking for family brunch or treating yourself to a cozy moment, these flaky apricot scones are bound to impress.
Don’t miss our Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats Recipe if you’re looking for another make-ahead breakfast win.
PrintFlaky Apricot Scones
Flaky apricot scones are buttery, golden pastries layered with chopped dried apricots and topped with a sweet almond glaze—perfect for brunch, breakfast, or an afternoon treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 cup cold whole milk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 12 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, divided
- ½ cup diced dried apricots (about ¼ pound)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon warm water (adjust as needed for glaze consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a two-cup measure, combine the milk, sugar, and salt. Whisk until dissolved and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
- Cut 10 tablespoons of butter into small cubes and blend into flour mixture using a pastry cutter until pea-sized pieces form.
- Add the milk mixture and stir with a fork until dough comes together.
- Lightly flour a clean surface and roll dough into a 14×8″ rectangle.
- Soften the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and spread over dough using fingers.
- Sprinkle diced apricots evenly and gently press into dough.
- Fold dough like a letter: top third down, bottom third up over it. Fold in half again and flatten gently into an 8×4″ rectangle.
- Cut into 8 squares and place on prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and puffed.
- Let scones cool slightly before glazing.
- In a bowl, whisk powdered sugar, almond extract, and water to form glaze. Drizzle over warm scones and serve.
Notes
- Use cold butter to create flaky layers.
- Do not overmix dough to avoid tough scones.
- Chill dough before baking if your kitchen is warm.
- You can freeze unglazed scones for up to 2 months.
- Glaze scones when slightly warm for best texture.
