Bake Festive King Cake Scones for a Sweet Celebration

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

There s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked scones wafting through the kitchen, especially when they re infused with the festive spirit of a King Cake. Picture this: the soft, buttery texture subtly sweetened and layered with the warm spices of cinnamon, all topped off with vibrant, colorful sanding sugar reminiscent of carnival celebrations. I discovered this delightful recipe for King Cake Scones during a gathering where the highlight was, unsurprisingly, the dessert table. Those fluffy pastries became an instant hit, making me realize that this festive treat is perfect for breakfast or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

These King Cake Scones not only encapsulate the cherished flavors of a traditional New Orleans King Cake but also offer a delightful twist that s both easy to prepare and visually stunning. Whether you re celebrating Mardi Gras or simply looking to elevate your weekend brunch, these scones promise to enchant your taste buds without demanding hours of your time. So, let s get those ovens preheated and turn a classic into a modern favorite!

Why are King Cake Scones so special?

Unique Twist: These scones blend the classic flavors of a King Cake with a tender, flaky pastry.
Quick Delight: In just 35 minutes, you can indulge in a homemade treat that s both festive and fun.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings or as a special breakfast, these scones are sure to impress friends and family alike.
Visually Stunning: Topped with colorful sanding sugar, they re as beautiful as they are delicious.
Easy to Make: This recipe requires no advanced baking skills, making it accessible for anyone.
Treat yourself to this delightful twist and elevate your next celebration!

King Cake Scone Ingredients

These King Cake Scones are packed with delightful flavors!

For the Scone Dough

• All-purpose flour 2 ¾ cups; this forms the base of your scones, giving them that tender texture.
• Granulated sugar cup; adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the flavors.
• Baking powder 1 tablespoon; this is your leavening agent, ensuring the scones rise beautifully.
• Salt 1 teaspoon; enhances all the other flavors in your scone.
• Unsalted butter ½ cup, cold; using cold butter keeps the scones flaky and light.
• Large eggs 2; this adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
• Heavy cream cup; contributes to a moist scone and rich flavor.
• Milk cup; balances the cream and adds tenderness to the dough.

For the Filling

• Brown sugar cup; ensures a deep, caramel-like sweetness in the filling.
• Powdered sugar cup; keeps the filling smooth and sweet.
• Ground cinnamon 2 teaspoons; infuses warmth and spice reminiscent of a King Cake.
• Heavy cream 2 tablespoons; adds moisture to the filling for a luscious texture.
• Vanilla extract ½ teaspoon; offers a sweet aroma that compliments the scone beautifully.

For the Glaze

• Powdered sugar 1 cup; this creates a sweet, lovely glaze that tops the scones.
• Heavy cream 3-4 tablespoons; adjusts the glaze to your desired consistency, making it smooth and pourable.
• Vanilla extract ½ teaspoon; blends perfectly with the glaze for additional flavor.

For the Topping

• Sanding sugar green, yellow, and purple; these colorful sprinkles make your King Cake Scones festive and fun!

Gather these ingredients, and soon you ll be enjoying the flavorful joy of King Cake Scones that brighten any occasion!

How to Make King Cake Scones

1. Preheat your oven to 425 ºF. This temperature is just right for achieving a golden, flaky scone.

2. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. This mixture forms the foundation for your scones.

3. Grate the entire stick of cold butter into small pieces and add it to the flour mixture. Mix until well combined, giving your scones a lovely flaky texture.

4. Combine the eggs, heavy cream, and milk in a liquid measuring cup. Pour this mixture into the butter/flour mix, and then gently stir until just combined to form a dough ball.

5. Knead the dough on a countertop two or three times. Cut the dough into two equal sections and let it rest while preparing the filling.

6. Mix together the filling ingredients in a small bowl: brown sugar, powdered sugar, flour, ground cinnamon, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. This fragrant mixture will add a delightful sweetness.

7. Flour both balls of dough lightly and roll each into equal-sized 8-inch circles. Spread the filling on top of one circle, avoiding the edges for a neat finish.

8. Layer the second circle over the filling, and pinch the seams closed. Cut the dough into 8 triangular sections and carefully transfer them to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

9. Bake the scones for 14-16 minutes, until they are baked through and slightly brown on top. Keep an eye on them they should look invitingly golden!

10. Glaze your scones by mixing powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Drizzle the glaze over each scone after they cool slightly, and sprinkle with colorful sanding sugar. Enjoy your festive treat!

Optional: Serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

King Cake Scones Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these festive scones to suit your taste and dietary needs!

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a fluffy alternative that everyone can enjoy.

• Vegan: Use plant-based butter and substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg) to create a scrumptious vegan version.

• Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a delightful crunch and flavor boost that complements the cinnamon perfectly.

• Fruit-Filled: Replace some of the filling with dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a sweet twist while adding a burst of fruity goodness.

• Spice It Up: Enhance the flavor with a pinch of nutmeg or allspice in the scone dough for an extra warm and cozy aroma.

• Lemon Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor that brightens the scone s overall taste.

• Chocolate Drizzle: Top cooled scones with a melted chocolate drizzle instead of glaze for a decadent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.

• Mildly Spicy: Integrate a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the filling for a sweet-and-spicy kick that adds intrigue.

These variations invite you to explore different flavors and textures while celebrating the classic charm of King Cake Scones!

What to Serve with King Cake Scones?

Imagine celebrating with a table full of vibrant dishes that perfectly complement the sweet, festive flavors of these scones.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweetness with tangy notes.
• Spicy Cajun Sausage: The robust, savory profile of sausage pairs wonderfully, introducing a kick that rounds out the meal beautifully.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream offers a luscious texture, enhancing each bite of scone with creaminess.
• Coffee or Chicory Tea: Sipping on a warm cup of coffee or a robust chicory tea complements the sweetness, enhancing the overall experience.
• Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Elevate your scones with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar; it echoes the scone flavor while adding a delightful crunch.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Drizzling this rich icing provides an extra layer of decadence, turning your scones into an indulgent treat.
• Maple Syrup: A warm drizzle of maple syrup brings a rich, earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon in the scones.
• Pecan Praline Topping: The caramel-like sweetness and crunch of pecan praline add a festive flair, making every bite truly special.

Make Ahead Options

These King Cake Scones are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a festive treat with minimal effort. You can prepare the scones itself up to 24 hours ahead by mixing the dough and cutting them into triangles. Once shaped, simply cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you re ready to bake, take them out and let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before popping them in the oven. Additionally, the glaze can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container. Just give it a good whisk before drizzling over your freshly baked scones for that same delightful taste!

Storage Tips for King Cake Scones

• Room Temperature: Keep scones wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness.

• Fridge: For longer storage, place the scones in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 1 week. Just be sure to seal them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.

• Freezer: To enjoy King Cake Scones later, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply pop the scones in a preheated oven at 350 ºF for about 5-10 minutes, or until warm. This will bring back their delightful texture!

Expert Tips for King Cake Scones

• Use Cold Butter: Ensure the butter is very cold to achieve those flaky layers. Warm butter can lead to dense scones, so don t skip this step!

• Don t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough scones, and you want them to be light and airy.

• Roll Evenly: For uniform scones, roll the dough into equal-sized circles. This helps ensure even baking and consistent texture throughout each scone.

• Watch Your Bake: Keep an eye on the scones while they bake. Every oven is different; they should be golden brown but not overcooked.

• Temperature for Glaze: Allow the scones to cool slightly before glazing. This way, the glaze won t melt off, and you ll have a beautiful finish!

Elevate your baking with these King Cake Scones tips, and enjoy every bite!

King Cake Scones Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for my King Cake Scones?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose ripe, fresh ingredients. Look for eggs with smooth, clean shells and heavy cream that has a consistent texture, free from lumps. The butter should be cold, jump-starting the flaky texture of your scones. Always opt for all-purpose flour that is fresh and free of any clumps.

How should I store leftover King Cake Scones?
To keep your scones fresh, wrap them in a clean kitchen towel or place them in an airtight container, storing them at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have extras or want to enjoy them later, move them to the fridge where they ll stay fresh for up to 1 week!

Can I freeze King Cake Scones, and if so, how?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to savor these delightful treats later. First, allow the scones to cool completely. Then, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy one, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat at 350 ºF for about 5-10 minutes.

What if my scone dough is too sticky or too dry?
No worries! Dough consistency can vary based on environmental factors. If your dough is too sticky, simply add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches the right texture. If it feels too dry, you can add a tiny bit more cream or milk. The ideal dough is soft and slightly tacky but still manageable. Remember to mix gently!

Are King Cake Scones safe for those with allergies?
While these scones do contain common allergens like gluten (from flour) and dairy (butter and cream), they can be modified to suit dietary needs. For gluten-free options, try replacing all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free versions, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use plant-based milk and cream. Always double-check packaging for any hidden allergens to ensure safety for yourself or guests!