If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the perfect harmony of tangy citrus and sweet berries, this Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe is exactly what you need. These scones boast tender, flaky layers baked to golden perfection, bursting with vibrant bursts of dried cranberries and refreshing orange zest. Whether you’re elevating your breakfast or hosting a cozy afternoon tea, these scones bring warmth, brightness, and a touch of festive charm with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients, each playing an important role to create the flaky texture, vibrant flavor, and beautiful color of these scones. From the zesty fresh orange to the rich cold butter, every component has a purpose.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and tender crumb.
- 3 Tbsp sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to balance the tartness.
- 1 Tbsp baking powder: Ensures your scones rise with a light, fluffy texture.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1/2 Tbsp grated orange zest: Infuses a fresh, aromatic citrus note throughout the dough.
- 1 stick cold butter (1/2 cup), cut into chunks: Creates flaky layers by distributing fat evenly.
- 1 large egg (lightly beaten): Binds ingredients and adds richness.
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream plus 1 Tbsp for brushing: Contributes moisture and tenderness while brushing adds a golden finish.
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries: Bursts of tart sweetness scattered throughout.
- 1 Tbsp coarse/raw sugar (optional): Adds a sparkling crunch on top.
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar: For the luscious orange glaze that ties it all together.
- 1 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice: Gives the glaze a bright, citrusy zing.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400˚F and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a big bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and the grated orange zest. This simple blend kickstarts the vibrant flavors and ensures an even rise for your scones.
Step 2: Cut in the Butter
Add your cold butter chunks to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or two knives, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the texture resembles coarse, pea-sized crumbs. This step is key for creating those perfectly flaky layers in each scone.
Step 3: Add the Cranberries
Gently toss in the dried cranberries, mixing just enough so they are evenly distributed but without breaking them down. Then create a well in the center of your mixture — this will soon welcome the wet ingredients.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients and Combine
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and heavy whipping cream. Pour this mixture into the well of your dry ingredients. Now, fold everything together gently using a spatula, stirring just until everything is moistened. Overmixing will toughen your scones, so keep it light!
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Turn your dough out onto a generously floured surface and pull it together into a thick, round disk about 3/4 inch thick. Slice this disk into 12 equal wedges and slightly pull them apart to give room for rising. Brush the tops with the remaining heavy cream and sprinkle with coarse sugar if you like a sparkling crunch. Bake in your preheated oven for 15 to 17 minutes, or until golden and inviting.
Step 6: Glaze and Cool
Once baked, transfer the scones to a rack and let them cool for about 15 minutes. While cooling, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and a pinch of zest to create a luscious glaze. Adjust the thickness by adding more sugar or juice as needed, then drizzle generously over your warm scones for that irresistible finishing touch.
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or additional orange zest on top can add a delicate sparkle and extra burst of aroma. Fresh cranberries or thin slices of orange on the side elevate presentation and invite guests to savor that citrus-berry experience visually before tasting.
Side Dishes
Pair your scones with clotted cream, whipped butter, or your favorite citrus marmalade to complement the orange notes. A hot cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee provides the perfect cozy beverage companion, making your snack feel like a special occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these scones as part of a brunch board accompanied by fresh fruit, yogurt, and honey. You can also stack them with a smear of cream cheese and a handful of cranberries for an elegant mini dessert sandwich. Their beautiful color and texture make them a standout addition to any table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover scones fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, place them in the refrigerator, but be sure to bring them back to room temperature or warm them for the best taste and texture.
Freezing
This Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap individual scones tightly in plastic wrap and freeze in a sealed bag or container for up to three months. This way, you can enjoy a sweet, citrusy treat whenever the mood strikes.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap the scones and warm them in a preheated oven at 350˚F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. For a quicker fix, microwave for 20-30 seconds, but the oven method ensures your scones stay beautifully crisp on the outside and soft inside.
FAQs
Can I substitute fresh cranberries for dried in this Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe?
Fresh cranberries can be used, but since they contain more moisture, they may affect the texture and baking time. It’s best to chop them finely and perhaps reduce any liquid slightly, or stick to dried for consistent results.
What if I don’t have heavy cream on hand?
You can substitute heavy cream with an equal amount of whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of melted butter to maintain richness, though the scones might be a bit less tender and flaky.
How important is cold butter in this recipe?
Cold butter is crucial for flaky scones; it creates steam during baking that separates the dough into tender layers. Using room temperature butter will result in denser, less flaky scones.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
With some adjustments, yes! Use a plant-based milk and vegan butter substitute, and replace the egg with a flax or chia egg to keep the dough together. Keep in mind the texture and flavor may differ slightly.
How do I make the glaze thicker or thinner?
Adjust the powdered sugar to juice ratio. Add more powdered sugar to thicken or more orange juice to thin it out until you reach the consistency you prefer for drizzling.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe enough if you love flavors that dance between sweet and tart with a buttery finish. It’s a wonderful way to brighten up any morning or make teatime extra special. Grab your apron and give these scones a try — I promise, your kitchen will fill with inviting aromas that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Print
Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Yield: 12 scones
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these tender and flaky Cranberry Orange Scones, perfectly balanced with the bright zest of fresh orange and the tart sweetness of dried cranberries. These scones are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat, featuring a luscious orange glaze that adds a perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 Tbsp grated orange zest (from 1/2 orange, plus more for glaze)
- 1 Tbsp coarse/raw sugar to sprinkle the top (optional)
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold butter, cut into chunks
- 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream + 1 Tbsp to brush the top
- 1 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice (for glaze)
Other
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400˚F (204˚C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and grated orange zest to evenly distribute the leavening and flavor.
- Cut in Butter: Add the cold butter chunks and use a pastry cutter or two knives to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse pea-sized crumbs, ensuring a flaky texture.
- Add Cranberries: Gently toss in the dried cranberries, stirring just enough to combine them evenly throughout the mixture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk the egg with the heavy cream until well blended. Pour this mixture into the flour and butter mixture and carefully stir with a spatula until just moistened, avoiding overmixing.
- Form Dough: Turn the dough out onto a generously floured surface. Gently gather and press it into a round disk about 3/4 inch thick to maintain fluffiness.
- Cut Scones: Slice the disk into 12 equal wedges. Slightly separate the wedges on the baking sheet to allow for expansion during baking.
- Prepare for Baking: Brush the tops of the scones with 1 tablespoon of heavy cream and, if desired, sprinkle with coarse sugar to add a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the scones in the preheated oven and bake for 15–17 minutes until they turn golden brown; approximately 16 minutes is ideal.
- Cool and Glaze: Remove the scones from the oven and transfer them from the baking sheet to a rack, letting them cool for about 15 minutes before glazing.
- Make Glaze and Drizzle: Whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and a pinch of orange zest in a small bowl. Adjust consistency by adding more powdered sugar or juice as needed. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled scones for a sweet, citrusy finish.
Notes
- Use cold butter to help create flaky layers in the scones.
- Do not overmix the dough to keep the scones tender.
- Fresh orange zest enhances the citrus flavor significantly; freshly grated is best.
- The glaze can be thinned or thickened by adjusting the orange juice and powdered sugar proportion.
- Store leftover scones in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat slightly before serving.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a vegan butter alternative.
