Easy Carrot Cake Mix Scones with Luscious Cream Cheese Glaze
Imagine the comforting, spiced flavors of your favorite carrot cake transformed into a delightful, tender scone, generously topped with a rich, tangy cream cheese glaze. That’s exactly what you get with these incredible Carrot Cake Mix Scones! Bursting with the natural sweetness of finely shredded carrots and the satisfying crunch of pecans, these scones offer all the classic appeal of carrot cake in an effortlessly easy-to-make breakfast or brunch treat. The secret to their remarkable simplicity? A readily available box of carrot cake mix, which significantly reduces prep time, making them perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous baking sessions when a craving strikes.
What comes to mind when you ponder an often-underrated dessert? For many, the answer is undoubtedly the classic carrot cake, especially when it’s generously crowned with that iconic cream cheese frosting. It sometimes gets an undeserved bad reputation, perhaps because the inclusion of “carrots” makes our brains think it’s a “healthy” option disguised as a dessert – a notion that might have been born in the innocent minds of elementary school children! However, I can assure you that a truly good carrot cake is a rich, decadent, and flavorful experience, far from any bland “health food” you might imagine. These Carrot Cake Scones perfectly capture that spirit, proving that carrots absolutely belong in delicious baked goods.
Forget bland or overly virtuous baked goods. These quick carrot scones are a delightful departure, offering a sublime balance of sweetness from the cake mix and fresh carrots, complemented by a satisfying crunch from the pecans scattered throughout. The genius of this recipe lies in its clever use of a boxed cake mix, transforming what could be a complex traditional baking project into a remarkably simple breakfast treat that comes together in a breeze. With minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of these moist, tender, and incredibly flavorful scones that are sure to impress even the most ardent carrot skeptics. It’s an ideal way to enjoy the comforting, spiced notes of carrot cake in a lighter, more breakfast-friendly format.
For those of you who already adore a good, old-fashioned carrot cake recipe, this breakfast scone is equally perfect! With finely grated fresh carrots incorporated into the dough and a simple, homemade cream cheese glaze to generously coat them, these Carrot Cake Mix Scones will swiftly become a cherished favorite in your personal recipe book. This is a truly delightful recipe to serve at a leisurely Sunday brunch, but its quick preparation and utterly satisfying flavor mean it works just as well to satisfy your sweet tooth craving at any time of day, whether for an afternoon pick-me-up or a comforting evening treat.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Easy Carrot Cake Mix Scones
These aren’t just any scones; they’re a revelation for anyone who loves the comforting flavors of carrot cake but appreciates a quick and simple baking solution. Here’s why these Carrot Cake Mix Scones are destined to become your new go-to recipe:
- Unbeatable Ease: The star of this recipe is the carrot cake mix. It provides the perfect balance of flour, sugar, and spices, drastically simplifying the ingredient list and reducing the number of steps. This means less measuring and mixing for you, making homemade scones accessible to even the busiest bakers.
- Irresistible Carrot Cake Flavor: You get all the classic, warmly spiced taste of traditional carrot cake, complete with the natural sweetness and subtle texture of shredded carrots, plus the delightful earthy crunch of pecans. It’s a harmonious blend that is utterly satisfying and reminiscent of your favorite slice of cake.
- Perfectly Tender & Flaky Texture: Despite their ease, these scones boast that desirable tender, flaky interior that is the hallmark of a great scone. The method of cutting in cold butter ensures pockets of steam during baking, leading to a light and airy result.
- That Dreamy Cream Cheese Glaze: What’s carrot cake without cream cheese frosting? This simple yet decadent glaze provides that essential tangy sweetness, perfectly balancing the rich scone and elevating each bite into a true dessert-like experience. It’s the crowning glory of these already delicious scones.
- Incredibly Versatile: Serve them warm from the oven for a special breakfast, as a delightful accompaniment to your afternoon coffee or tea, or as an elegant addition to a weekend brunch spread. They also make a thoughtful and much-appreciated homemade gift for friends and family.
If you haven’t guessed by now, scone recipes are truly some of my absolute favorites to bake. Their quick preparation, minimal fuss, and undeniably delicious results make them a constant go-to in my kitchen! Are you ready to join the ranks of scone fanatics like me? If so, you absolutely must try my Strawberry Cake Mix Scones for a vibrant, fruity twist, the sophisticated Earl Grey Scones for a delicate hint of floral elegance, and the delightfully unique Banoffee Scones (you get three guesses what those are made of – hint: it’s a famous dessert!). And for those of you who typically gravitate towards muffins (it’s perfectly okay, embracing new culinary adventures is a good thing!), I wholeheartedly encourage you to explore my savory-sweet McGriddle Muffins and the wholesome, moist Banana Carrot Muffins!
What Do I Need To Make Carrot Cake Scones?
Gathering your ingredients for these easy Carrot Cake Mix Scones is incredibly straightforward. You’ll likely have many of these baking staples on hand already, making this a perfect recipe for when a spontaneous craving strikes for a homemade treat!
- 1 1/4 cup carrot cake mix
- 1 ¼ cups all purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk (or heavy whipping cream)
- 1 egg white
- 1/2 cup finely grated carrots, packed
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
For the glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 Tablespoon Cream cheese.
- 1 Tablespoon milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Tips for Making the Best Carrot Cake Mix Scones
Achieving perfectly tender and flaky scones is easier than you think, especially when you follow these simple, expert tips:
- Keep Ingredients Ice Cold: This is arguably the most crucial tip for producing excellent scones. Ensure your butter is ice-cold, straight from the fridge, and cube it before adding it to the mix. Cold butter creates pockets of steam in the oven as it melts, which in turn leads to those desirable flaky layers. If your kitchen is particularly warm, you can even chill your flour in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes before starting.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overworking the dough is the quickest way to develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough, dry scones rather than tender ones. Mix just until the ingredients are barely combined and no dry streaks of flour remain. A few small lumps in the dough are perfectly fine – they indicate you haven’t overmixed!
- Finely Grate Carrots: For the best texture and even distribution throughout the scones, grate your carrots very finely. This ensures they soften nicely during baking and blend seamlessly into the scone without being too chunky or noticeable in an unpleasant way.
- Handle Dough Gently: When shaping the dough, use a very light touch. Avoid excessive kneading, rolling, or pressing. The goal is simply to bring the dough together into a cohesive disk, not to develop its elasticity. Minimal handling equals tender scones.
- Consider Chilling the Dough: While this recipe is designed to be quick, an optional step for even flakier results is to chill the shaped scone dough for 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator before baking. This helps the butter stay cold for longer, further enhancing flakiness and preventing the scones from spreading too much.
- The Cream Cheese Glaze is Essential: Don’t skip this step! The tangy, sweet cream cheese glaze isn’t just for decoration; it provides a vital acidic counterpoint to the sweet, spiced scones, enhancing the overall carrot cake experience and adding an extra layer of moisture and flavor.
Variations & Substitutions for Your Carrot Cake Mix Scones
While these Carrot Cake Mix Scones are absolutely fantastic as written, part of the joy of baking is customizing recipes to your personal taste. Feel free to experiment with these ideas:
- Alternative Nuts: If pecans aren’t your favorite or you don’t have them on hand, feel free to swap them for walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of nuts. For an extra layer of flavor and crunch, lightly toast your chosen nuts in a dry pan before adding them to the dough. If you prefer nut-free, simply omit them.
- Boost the Spices: Carrot cake mix provides a great base of spices, but if you love a bolder, more aromatic flavor profile, consider adding an extra 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of ground nutmeg, ginger, or allspice to the dry ingredients for an even deeper warmth.
- Add Dried Fruit: For an extra layer of chewiness and concentrated sweetness, fold in 1/4 to 1/2 cup of golden raisins, regular dark raisins, or finely chopped dried cranberries along with the grated carrots and pecans.
- Introduce Coconut: Shredded coconut (either sweetened for extra sweetness or unsweetened for a more subtle flavor) can add a lovely tropical note and delightful texture. Stir in about 1/4 cup to the dough along with the carrots.
- Buttermilk for Tang: For a slightly tangier scone, which can add depth of flavor, use buttermilk instead of regular milk. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a homemade version by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to your regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Zesty Glaze Options: For a bright, citrusy twist on the cream cheese glaze, add 1/2 teaspoon of fresh lemon or orange zest along with the vanilla extract. A tiny pinch of ground cinnamon can also be mixed into the glaze for an extra spiced touch.
Step by Step Instructions:
Ready to bake these delectable Carrot Cake Mix Scones? Follow these simple, clear steps to create your delicious treats. Remember, gentle handling of the dough is key for the best results!
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with a silicone baking mat or a sheet of parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the carrot cake mix and the all-purpose flour. Stir them together until well combined. Next, add the cold unsalted butter to this dry mixture. Using a pastry blender, two forks, or even your fingertips (working quickly!), cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs, with any remaining pieces of butter being no larger than small peas.
Step 3: Gently stir the finely grated carrots and chopped pecans into the flour and butter mixture, distributing them evenly. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup of milk (or heavy whipping cream) and the egg white. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spoon or your hands until all the flour mixture has been just incorporated and a shaggy dough forms. Be careful not to overmix!
Step 4: Lightly sprinkle a bit of all-purpose flour onto your clean work surface. Turn the scone dough out onto the floured surface. Sprinkle a bit more flour over the top of the dough. Using your hands, gently and briefly shape the dough into a cohesive ball. Avoid kneading vigorously.
Step 5: Carefully transfer the dough ball onto your prepared baking sheet. Gently press the dough down and outward to form an 8-inch round disk. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into 8 equal wedges, like slicing a pizza. Gently separate these wedges slightly on the baking sheet to allow for even baking.
Step 6: Bake the scones in the preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 22-25 minutes. They are ready when the edges begin to turn a light golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, carefully transfer the hot scones to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
Step 7: While the scones are cooling, prepare the cream cheese glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, softened cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth. Then, gradually add the powdered sugar, whisking continuously until the glaze is smooth, creamy, and free of any lumps. Once the scones have cooled completely, use a fork or a spoon to generously drizzle the luscious glaze over each scone.
Serving Suggestions for Your Carrot Cake Scones
These delightful scones are perfect on their own, fresh from the oven, but here are some ideas to make them an even more special culinary experience:
- The Classic Pairing: A warm, flaky scone is incomplete without a perfect beverage. Serve them alongside a freshly brewed cup of hot coffee, a comforting Earl Grey tea, or your favorite herbal infusion. The rich flavors of the scone and glaze beautifully complement these drinks.
- With Fresh Fruit: For a balanced and refreshing breakfast or brunch spread, serve your Carrot Cake Mix Scones with a colorful medley of fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), slices of juicy oranges, or a vibrant mixed fruit salad.
- Elevate Your Breakfast: For a more substantial and indulgent meal, offer these scones alongside a creamy yogurt parfait, layered with crunchy granola and an assortment of fresh fruit. It’s a delightful way to start the day.
- As a Decadent Dessert: Don’t limit these delicious treats to just breakfast or brunch! Warm them slightly in the microwave or a toaster oven for a few seconds and serve with a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream or a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream. They make a comforting and impressive dessert.
- Brunch Centerpiece: Arrange them beautifully on a platter for your next brunch gathering. Their inviting aroma and charming appearance will make them an instant hit, and the convenient “cake mix” secret will be yours alone!
Storage and Freezing Tips for Carrot Cake Mix Scones
If you happen to have any leftover Carrot Cake Mix Scones (a truly rare occurrence, we know!), here’s how to properly store them to maintain their freshness and deliciousness:
- At Room Temperature: Once completely cooled, store your glazed or unglazed scones in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain fresh and delicious for up to 2-3 days. If they are glazed, the glaze might become a bit sticky over time, but the flavor will still be fantastic.
- Refrigeration: If your kitchen is particularly warm, or if you want to extend their shelf life slightly, you can refrigerate the scones in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For the best taste and texture, allow them to come to room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
- Freezing Baked Scones: To enjoy these scones at a later date, freezing is an excellent option. Once the scones are completely cooled after baking, wrap each individual scone tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped scones into a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours, then warm them in a toaster oven, conventional oven, or microwave until heated through and fragrant.
- Freezing Unbaked Scones: For maximum convenience and fresh-baked taste anytime, you can also freeze the raw scone dough! After cutting the dough into wedges (following Step 5), arrange the unbaked scones on a parchment-lined baking sheet and place them in the freezer until they are completely solid (this usually takes about 1-2 hours). Once firm, transfer the frozen scone wedges to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen scones directly onto a prepared baking sheet (no need to thaw!) and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes beyond the recipe’s specified baking time, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Frequently Asked Questions About Carrot Cake Mix Scones
Here are answers to some common questions you might have when making these easy and delicious Carrot Cake Mix Scones:
Can I use a different type of cake mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe specifically calls for carrot cake mix to achieve its unique spiced and subtly sweet flavor profile, you can certainly experiment with other cake mixes. A yellow cake mix or a spice cake mix would likely yield delicious results. If using a plain yellow cake mix, you might want to consider adding an extra 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the flavor.
Why is it so important for the butter to be cold?
Keeping the butter ice-cold is a critical step for achieving flaky, tender scones. When cold butter pieces are incorporated into the dough and then baked, they create pockets of steam as they melt in the hot oven. This steam pushes up the layers of dough, resulting in that desirable light, airy, and flaky texture. If the butter is too warm or melted, it will blend into the flour too thoroughly, leading to a denser, tougher scone.
Can I make these scones ahead of time for a special occasion?
Yes, these scones are perfect for making ahead! You can prepare the scone dough up to the point of cutting it into wedges (Step 5). At this stage, place the unbaked wedges on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply preheat your oven and bake as directed, potentially adding a few extra minutes to the baking time since the dough will be colder. Alternatively, you can freeze unbaked scones as described in the “Storage and Freezing Tips” section for even longer storage.
My scones turned out a bit tough. What might have gone wrong?
The most common culprit for tough scones is overmixing the dough. Too much mixing develops the gluten in the flour, making the scones chewy and bread-like rather than tender and flaky. To avoid this, always mix the wet and dry ingredients just until they are barely combined and no dry streaks of flour remain. A shaggy dough with a few lumps is exactly what you’re looking for!
What if I don’t have a pastry blender to cut in the butter?
No problem at all! If you don’t have a pastry blender, you have a few excellent alternatives. You can use two forks to cut the cold butter into the flour mixture, crisscrossing them until the butter is the desired size. Another method is to use your fingertips, working quickly to rub the butter into the flour (try to keep your hands as cold as possible to prevent the butter from melting). A food processor can also be used; simply pulse the dry ingredients with the cold butter a few times until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Carrot Cake Mix Scones
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Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cup carrot cake mix
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk (or heavy whipping cream)
- 1 egg white
- 1/2 cup finely grated carrots (packed)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Cream Cheese Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 Tablespoons Cream cheese
- 1 Tablespoon milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 375 degrees and line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper.
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In a medium sized mixing bowl, add the cake mix and the flour. Stir to combine. Then add the cold butter to the mixture. Using a pastry blender or two forks, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture is crumbly and any pieces of butter are pea sized or smaller.
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Stir the grated carrots and pecans into the flour mixture. Add 1/2 cup milk mixed with one egg white and stir gently until all the flour mixture has been incorporated.
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Sprinkle a bit of flour onto your work space and turn the scone dough onto the flour. Sprinkle a bit more over the top of the dough and gently shape the dough into a ball.
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Place the dough onto your prepared baking sheet and press the dough into an 8 inch round. Using a knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into wedges and gently separate them.
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Bake at 375 degrees for 22-25 minutes or until the edges begin to slightly brown. Cool on a wire rack.
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Once the scones have cooled, whisk together the milk, cream cheese and vanilla. Then add the powdered sugar and whisk until no lumps remain. Using a fork or a spoon, drizzle the glaze over the scones.
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