Cranberry Orange Scones

Cranberry Orange Scones are a delightful treat that combine the tartness of fresh cranberries with the zing of orange zest, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. These tender, buttery scones are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack – ideal for cozy gatherings or even a quiet morning at home. I first discovered this recipe during a holiday season, and since then, it has become a beloved staple in my kitchen. The bright notes of orange zest not only elevate the cranberries but also brighten up the dreariest of winter days.

Why You’ll Love Making It

What sets these Cranberry Orange Scones apart is their perfect balance of flavors and textures. They are quick to whip up, making them an ideal choice for busy mornings or last-minute brunches. The combination of sweet and tart makes them universally appealing, ensuring that everyone at the table will find something they love. Plus, they require just a handful of ingredients, so you won’t break the bank while enjoying bakery-worthy scones at home.

"These Cranberry Orange Scones are simply divine! The flavors complement each other beautifully, and they are so easy to make. Perfect for my holiday gathering!" – Sarah M.

Preparing Cranberry Orange Scones

Making these delightful scones is straightforward and intuitive. You’ll combine dry and wet ingredients separately before bringing them together to create the dough. The key here is not to overmix; you want that tender crumb signature of a perfect scone. Once you’ve shaped them, they bake to a golden perfection in no time.

Gather Your Ingredients

To create these irresistible scones, here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Feel free to experiment with substitutes if you’re in a pinch; for instance, you can use buttermilk instead of heavy cream or swap cranberries for dried fruit or chocolate chips for a twist!

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gently stir in the chopped cranberries and orange zest.
5. In another bowl, whisk together the cream, egg, and vanilla until well combined.
6. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing.
7. On a floured surface, turn out the dough and gently knead it a few times before shaping it into a circle about 1 inch thick.
8. Cut the dough into wedges and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.
10. Once baked, allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Serving

These scones are best enjoyed warm from the oven. Consider serving them with a dollop of clotted cream or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. They also pair beautifully with a cup of your favorite herbal tea or a robust coffee. For a festive touch, present them on a tiered cake stand alongside seasonal fruits like oranges or pomegranates.

Best Way to Store Cranberry Orange Scones

To keep your Cranberry Orange Scones fresh, store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If you need to store them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cooled scones in a zip-top bag, and they can last for up to a month. To reheat, pop them in a toaster oven or a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Pro Chef Tips

For the ultimate scone experience, ensure your butter is extra cold for flaky layers. You can even freeze the butter before cutting it into the dry ingredients. If you want an extra layer of flavor, brush the scones with an egg wash before baking for a shiny finish. Finally, be gentle with the dough to avoid tough scones.

Flavor Variations

Feeling adventurous? You can easily customize this recipe! Try adding white chocolate chips for sweetness, or swap out the cranberries for blueberries for a different fruit experience. You might also consider incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to give them a cozy warmth. Experimenting with citrus, like adding lemon zest instead of orange, could also yield delicious results.

Your Questions Answered

How long do these scones take to prepare?

From start to finish, you can have these delightful scones ready in about 30 to 40 minutes.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, dried cranberries can be used, but they will alter the texture and the flavor. If using dried cranberries, consider soaking them in warm water for about 10 minutes to help plump them up before adding to the dough.

What’s the best way to reheat these scones?

To reheat, place the scones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help retain their flaky texture!

Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Definitely! You can freeze the shaped scones before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, you can either bake them straight from frozen (just add a few extra minutes to the baking time) or let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

By embracing these warm Cranberry Orange Scones, you’ll bring joy and flavor to your table, making any moment feel a bit more special. Happy baking!

Cranberry Orange Scones

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• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delightful scones that combine the tartness of fresh cranberries with the zing of orange zest, perfect for breakfast or snacks.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gently stir in the chopped cranberries and orange zest.
5. In another bowl, whisk together the cream, egg, and vanilla until well combined.
6. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined.
7. On a floured surface, turn out the dough and gently knead it a few times before shaping it into a circle about 1 inch thick.
8. Cut the dough into wedges and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.
10. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Best served warm. Can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for 2 days or frozen for up to a month. Use an egg wash for a shiny finish.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 scone
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: scones, cranberry, orange, breakfast, dessert