Name: Coconut Scones with a Tropically Sweet Glaze You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour for gluten-free version.); 1 cup Sweetened Shredded Coconut (Use unsweetened for less sweetness.); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Adjust based on preference.); 2 tablespoons Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Cold and diced.); 3/4 cup Coconut Milk (Full-fat, can substitute with dairy or non-dairy milk.); 1 large Egg (Room temperature.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Sifted.); 1 tablespoon Coconut Milk (For glaze.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Can use coconut extract for more coconut flavor.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I sat on my sun-drenched porch, the scent of coconut drifted through the air, immediately whisking me away to a tropical paradise. That’s the magic of these Coconut Scones with Tropical Coconut Glaze—the perfect blend of fluffy, tender bites topped with a sweet, shiny glaze. Ideal for breakfast or brunch, they’re not just a treat; they’re a delightful escape from the everyday hustle. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility: you can whip these up in no time, transforming ordinary mornings into an indulgent experience. Plus, they freeze beautifully, so you can savor the taste of the tropics whenever the craving strikes. Curious to see how these scones can elevate your mornings? Let’s dive into the tropical bliss!

Why Are Coconut Scones So Irresistible?

Tropical Flavors: Each bite transports you to a sunny paradise with the lovely taste of coconut.
Moist & Flaky: They’re perfectly tender, creating a delightful contrast between fluffy insides and a crisp outer layer.
Quick to Prepare: With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have these delectable scones ready in no time!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Freeze them raw, and bake fresh scones on demand for that warm, fresh-baked aroma anytime.
Perfect Pairing: Enjoy them with your morning coffee or as a delightful brunch centerpiece that will impress your guests.
Whether you’re serving them alongside a fragrant cup of tea or as a snack during the day, these Coconut Scones are sure to brighten up your routine, similar to my Coconut Shrimp Thai recipe that brings tropical vibes to dinner or my simple Salmon Bowls Coconut for a straightforward yet flavorful meal.

Coconut Scone Ingredients

• Coconut scones offer a delightful tropical twist to your breakfast or brunch spread.

For the Scones

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the scones; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Sweetened Shredded Coconut – Adds sweetness and a chewy texture; consider using unsweetened for a less sweet outcome.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the scone dough; adjust the amount based on your preferred sweetness level.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help the scones rise perfectly.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
Unsalted Butter (cold and diced) – Contributes to a moist, flaky texture; keeping it cold is key to avoid melting too soon.
Coconut Milk (full-fat) – Adds moisture and rich coconut flavor; can be substituted with any dairy or non-dairy milk.
Large Egg (room temperature) – Binds ingredients and adds richness to the scones.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar (sifted) – Essential for making a sweet and smooth glaze that coats the scones beautifully.
Coconut Milk (for glaze) – Mixes with powdered sugar to create the drizzle; adds extra richness to the glaze.
Vanilla Extract (or coconut extract) – Enhances the overall coconut flavor of the scones; choose coconut extract for an extra tropical touch.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Coconut Scones with Tropical Coconut Glaze

Step 1: Prep Coconut
Start by placing the sweetened shredded coconut into a food processor. Pulse it a few times until it resembles a crumb-like texture, which will enhance the scone’s flavor and texture. This step takes about 1-2 minutes and ensures that each bite of your Coconut Scones is richly infused with coconut goodness.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, the crumbed coconut, baking powder, and salt. This chore takes just a couple of minutes and is crucial as it combines the dry components needed in your Coconut Scones, ensuring even distribution of ingredients for a consistent bake.

Step 3: Incorporate Butter
Next, add the diced cold unsalted butter into the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs, about the size of peas. This process should take roughly 3-5 minutes. Cold butter is essential here for creating that flaky texture when your Coconut Scones bake.

Step 4: Form Dough
Create a well in the center of the dry ingredient mixture and add the room-temperature coconut milk and egg. Gently mix with a spatula or your hands until a soft dough forms, being cautious not to overmix. This should take around 1-2 minutes, and you’ll know it’s ready when the dough just comes together without being sticky.

Step 5: Shape and Chill
Turn your dough onto a floured surface and gently shape it into a 7-inch disk that is about 1-inch thick. Cut the disk into 8 wedges for uniformity. Place the shaped scones on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Chilling helps maintain the butter’s firmness for flakiness.

Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the oven is ready, brush the tops of the chilled Coconut Scones with a bit of coconut milk. Bake for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and fragrant, filling your kitchen with the scent of tropical bliss. Let the scones cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes.

Step 7: Prepare Glaze
While your scones cool, mix the sifted powdered sugar with a tablespoon of coconut milk in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed. This glaze adds a sweet, glossy finish to your Coconut Scones, enhancing their delightful tropical flavors.

Step 8: Drizzle and Serve
Once your scones have cooled, drizzle the coconut glaze generously over the tops, allowing it to drip down the sides. For an extra touch, sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes. Serve these Coconut Scones warm or at room temperature, and enjoy a perfect tropical treat that brightens any occasion.

Coconut Scones Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to play with these variations to make the Coconut Scones truly your own!

Lime Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of lime zest to the dry ingredients for a refreshing citrus twist. The bright flavor of lime pairs beautifully with coconut, enhancing that tropical vibe.
Chocolate Chips: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. The rich chocolate complements the coconut, making every bite a decadent treat.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative. This way, you won’t miss out on the delightful texture, ensuring everyone can enjoy these scones!
Coconut Flour: Replace a portion of the all-purpose flour with coconut flour for an extra coconut punch. Just remember, coconut flour absorbs more moisture, so adjust the liquid in your dough to keep it perfectly balanced.
Add Nuts: Mix in ¼ cup chopped macadamia nuts or almonds for additional crunch. They will add a delightful texture contrast and deepen the flavor with nutty richness.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or freshly grated ginger for a warm touch. This slightly spicy element will beautifully highlight the sweetness of the coconut.
Berry-Infused: Fold in ½ cup of fresh or frozen blueberries for a fruity burst. The combination of coconut and berries creates a lovely harmony that’s well worth trying!
Toasted Coconut Topping: Instead of just glazing, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for added crunch and a beautiful presentation. The extra layer of toasted coconut is sure to impress!

Whether you decide to add a new twist or stick with the classic version, these scones will make for a delightful breakfast or snack. If you’re looking to incorporate more tropical flavor, check out my Coconut Shrimp Thai dish, or try my flavorful Salmon Bowls Coconut for a complete meal!

How to Store and Freeze Coconut Scones

Airtight Container: Store cooled Coconut Scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 days to keep them fresh and tender.

Refrigeration: For longer freshness, place the scones in the fridge where they will stay good for up to 5 days, but be sure to wrap them well to prevent drying out.

Freezer: Freeze shaped raw Coconut Scones on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore their flaky texture. Enjoy that fresh-baked taste anytime!

Expert Tips for Coconut Scones

• Cold Butter Is Key: Ensure your unsalted butter is very cold to achieve those flaky layers. Melted butter will lead to dense scones.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing the dough can result in tough scones instead of the light, fluffy texture you want.

• Chill Time Matters: Don’t skip the chilling step; it keeps the dough firm. This is essential for the best coconut scones.

• Get Creative: Experiment with add-ins like lime zest or chocolate chips for a unique twist on classic coconut flavor.

• Perfect Glaze: For a smooth glaze, sift the powdered sugar well to avoid lumps. Adjust the coconut milk for your desired consistency.

Embrace these tips, and your coconut scones will become a beloved breakfast staple in your home!

Make Ahead Options

These Coconut Scones are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic mornings! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the dry ingredients and cutting in the cold butter. Then, shape the dough into a disk, cut into wedges, and store it in the refrigerator. If you’d like to prep even further, you can freeze the shaped raw scones for up to 3 months. Just bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. To maintain their delicious quality, ensure they are well-wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, simply bake until golden brown, and drizzle with the coconut glaze for that fresh, tropical taste right at home!

What to Serve with Coconut Scones with Coconut Glaze

Elevate your meal with delightful accompaniments that enhance the tropical experience of these fluffy, sweet scones.

Fresh Tropical Fruit: A colorful assortment of pineapple, mango, and berries adds a refreshing zing that perfectly balances the sweetness of the scones.
Coconut Macadamia Coffee: A nutty, smooth coffee brings out the rich coconut flavors in the scones, creating a harmonious pairing for your breakfast table.
Creamy Greek Yogurt: This provides a cooling contrast to the sweetness of the scones, creating a lovely texture when enjoyed together. It’s perfect for a light brunch brunch alongside your favorite fruit preserve.
Herbal Tea: A warm, fragrant cup of herbal tea—like chamomile or mint—can cleanse the palate and complement the scone’s coconut glaze beautifully.
Lemon Curd: The tartness of lemon curd bursts onto the tastebuds, adding a zesty contrast to the scones’ sweet profile, making every bite a new adventure.
Coconut Water Spritzer: Mildly sweet and refreshing, this drink keeps the tropical theme alive while hydrating you perfectly for brunch or afternoon tea.
Toasted Almonds: A sprinkle of toasted almonds on the side adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the tender scones.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a dessert twist, serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream with a scone on the side and drizzle with extra coconut glaze for indulgence.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These add a touch of elegance and romance to your brunch spread, creating a visually stunning and delicious treat alongside your scones.

Coconut Scones with Tropical Coconut Glaze Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe coconut for my scones?
Absolutely! When selecting shredded coconut, look for a product that is moist and has a snowy white color. Avoid any that appears yellowed or has dark spots, as these may indicate spoilage. If you’re using fresh coconut, it should have a fragrant aroma and a solid, intact shell. Fresh coconut meat should be firm but tender to the touch.

What’s the best way to store leftover Coconut Scones?
Store cooled Coconut Scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 days to maintain their tenderness. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate the scones for up to 5 days, making sure they’re wrapped well to prevent drying out. This way, they’ll retain their delicious flavor and texture!

Can I freeze Coconut Scones, and if so, how?
Very! You can freeze shaped raw Coconut Scones before baking. Start by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply increase the baking time by a few minutes if baking from frozen, and enjoy fresh scones anytime!

What should I do if my scones turn out too dry?
If your Coconut Scones come out dry, they may have been overmixed or overbaked. To avoid this, mix the dough just until combined, and keep a close eye on them while they bake. Every oven is different, so check for a light golden color rather than a deep brown. If you find they’ve cooled and are still too dry, consider serving them with a dollop of coconut cream or butter to add moisture when you serve them!

Are these Coconut Scones suitable for people with allergies?
While these scones are vegetarian-friendly, they do contain dairy and eggs, so they are not suitable for vegans. If you have dairy allergies, you can substitute coconut milk for the regular milk and use a non-dairy butter alternative. Always be mindful of hidden allergens in packaged ingredients, such as shredded coconut, which can sometimes be processed in facilities that handle nuts.

Can I use a different type of coconut in the recipe?
Definitely! If you prefer, you can use unsweetened shredded coconut for a less sugary outcome, or opt for coconut flour. However, keep in mind that coconut flour is very absorbent, so you’ll need to adjust the liquid measurements in your recipe accordingly—typically, a quarter cup of coconut flour requires at least an extra half cup of liquid to keep the texture balanced.