Cranberry orange scones are a delightful addition to any breakfast or brunch table. With their rich flavors and tender, flaky texture, these scones promise to offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess that’s simply irresistible.
Why Make This Recipe
Making cranberry orange scones from scratch is not only easy, but it also fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma. The combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange provides a refreshing spin on the traditional scone, making it an ideal treat for family gatherings, special occasions, or even a cozy morning at home. Plus, they can be enjoyed warm from the oven or stored for a quick breakfast during busy weekdays. This recipe is simple enough for beginners but also sophisticated enough to impress guests.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Scones
This recipe is straightforward, requiring just a few fresh ingredients to create light and fluffy scones.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until you achieve a mixture that resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the dried cranberries and orange zest, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir just until the dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times just to bring it together.
- Shape the dough into an 8-inch circle and cut it into 8 wedges. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for about 15–18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top.
- Allow the scones to cool slightly before combining the powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest in a small bowl to make the glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm scones and enjoy!
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Scones
Cranberry orange scones are best served warm and can be accompanied by a dollop of butter or a side of jam. They are perfect for breakfast with a cup of tea or coffee, or as an afternoon snack. For an elegant brunch, serve them alongside a fruit salad or a light egg dish.
How to Store Cranberry Orange Scones
To maintain the freshness of your cranberry orange scones, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each scone in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven.
Tips for Success with Cranberry Orange Scones
- Use cold butter: This is vital for achieving the flakiness that makes a scone truly delightful.
- Don’t overmix: Mixing until just combined helps maintain a tender texture.
- Experiment with flavors: You can swap dried cranberries for other dried fruits, such as cherries or apricots, to create your own variations.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter scone, feel free to add a bit more sugar.
Variations
While the traditional cranberry orange scones are delicious on their own, consider these variations:
- Chocolate Chip Cranberry Scones: Add a cup of chocolate chips for a delightfully sweet twist.
- Nutty Scones: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans to add texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, shape it into a circle, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate it overnight and bake it fresh in the morning.
2. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, but keep in mind that fresh cranberries are much more tart. You might want to increase the sugar in the recipe to balance the flavor.
3. What can I serve with cranberry orange scones?
They pair beautifully with a variety of spreads. Some great options are clotted cream, butter, or homemade jam. A warm cup of tea or coffee complements them perfectly as well.
For more delicious recipes, check out our scone recipe collection or explore our other baking articles to inspire your culinary adventures! These cranberry orange scones are the perfect treat to add joy to your everyday meals. Happy baking!