-
To make the pumpkin puree, see instructions in this post, or use store-bought pumpkin puree.
-
Preheat your oven to 400 F.
-
Add the flour, sugar, spices, baking powder and salt to a food processor and pulse a few times to mix well.
-
Add the cubed butter and pulse 8 times (1-second pulses) until the butter is still visibly chunky. Transfer to a bowl.
-
In a separate bowl mix the egg, cream and pumpkin pure.
-
Add the wet ingredients to the dry, and lightly mix, until the dough just comes together. Do not knead the dough, just barely mix until you can form a ball. You need to see the butter chunks, as they will provide the tender, buttery interior.
-
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and divide into two equal portions. Add chopped walnuts to one portion, and shredded smoked cheese to the other (if using).
-
Form two disks, 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter, 3/4 inch (2 cm) thick, then cut into 8 equal triangles.
-
Brush the triangles with beaten egg yolk, and sprinkle coarse brown sugar on top.
-
Optionally, place a sage leave or a walnut piece on top.
-
Put the scones on a cookie sheet, lined with parchment paper, and bake in the middle rack of the oven for 20-25 minutes.