Ingredients
Method
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, baking powder, and salt.
- Grate the frozen butter using the large holes of a box grater directly into the flour mixture. Toss with a fork to coat, then cut in further using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse meal with some pea-sized butter bits.
- In a separate small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together 2/3 cup heavy cream, the egg, and vanilla. Pour this into the flour mixture and stir with a wooden spoon until just combined. Gently fold in the diced pear. If the dough seems too dry and doesn't hold together, add the remaining cream 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together. Pat into an 8-inch round disc about 3/4 inch thick. Use a bench scraper or sharp knife to cut into 8 wedges.
- Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Brush the tops with a little extra cream and sprinkle with a pinch of sugar if desired. Refrigerate the sheet while the oven preheats, about 15 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Let it sit at temperature for 5 minutes after preheating to ensure it's hot.
- Bake the chilled scones for 20 to 22 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the tops are set. Cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly.
- While the scones cool, make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners' sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla. Add the cream or milk and whisk until smooth and drizzle-able. Drizzle over the warm scones. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition
Notes
For the best texture, use very cold butter and cream; you can even freeze the butter for 15 minutes before grating. If your pear is very juicy, pat the diced pieces dry with a paper towel to prevent the dough from becoming too sticky. Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap baked and cooled scones tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; thaw at room temperature and reheat in a 300°F oven for 5 to 8 minutes. Avoid overmixing the dough once the liquid is added, or the scones will be tough.
