Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger), and salt until well combined.
Add the chilled cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. If desired, fold in the nuts or chocolate chips.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times until it holds together. Pat the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick.
Cut the circle into 8 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.