There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked orange cranberry scones wafting through your kitchen. Imagine biting into a warm scone with a buttery crumb that melts in your mouth while tangy cranberries burst with flavor. It’s like a citrusy hug for your taste buds! Perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon tea gatherings, these delightful treats will have you wondering why you ever settled for store-bought pastries.
I still remember the first time I baked these orange cranberry scones. The family gathered around the table, eyes wide with anticipation and smiles that could light up any winter day. The moment those golden beauties hit the table, they disappeared faster than you can say “scone.” It’s no exaggeration to say that every bite is a celebration of joy and warmth.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These orange cranberry scones are simple to whip up and require minimal ingredients
- Their bright flavors make them visually appealing and perfect for any occasion
- With their versatility, you can enjoy them as breakfast or an afternoon snack without guilt
- Plus, they freeze beautifully for later indulgence!
Sharing this recipe always brings back fond memories of family gatherings where laughter and good food unite. My youngest nephew once declared these scones “the best thing since sliced bread,” which is quite a compliment coming from a seven-year-old.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our scone; choose high-quality flour for the best texture.
- Baking Powder: Essential for that lovely rise; ensure it’s fresh for maximum fluffiness.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness; don’t skip it!
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance out the tart cranberries.
- Unsalted Butter: Cold butter creates flaky layers; cut it into cubes before mixing.
- Fresh Cranberries: Either use whole or roughly chop them to distribute their tartness evenly.
- Orange Zest: Adds bright flavor; use a microplane for fine zesting.
- Heavy Cream: Provides richness; feel free to substitute with milk if necessary.
- Egg: Binds everything together while adding moisture.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when your dough is ready. This helps achieve that perfectly golden crust we all adore.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until well combined—this ensures even distribution of flavors throughout the batter.
Add Butter: Toss in your cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Remember not to overwork it!
Add Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, and vibrant orange zest until smooth. Then pour this mixture into your dry ingredients along with cranberries and fold gently until just combined.
Shape Your Scone Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut it into wedges or use cookie cutters for fun shapes—let your creativity shine!
Bake Until Golden: Place your shaped scones on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Enjoy watching them rise beautifully in the oven!
With these steps completed, you’re left with warm orange cranberry scones bursting with flavor! Whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones over tea or coffee, these delightful treats will surely bring smiles all around.
You Must Know
- These orange cranberry scones are a delightful blend of tart and sweet
- The aroma fills your kitchen, making it feel like a cozy café
- They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up with tea
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and mixing dry ingredients first. Then, add the wet ingredients to create a smooth dough before shaping and baking for golden perfection.
Add Your TouchDiscover how to make mouth-watering orange cranberry scones that are easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.
Feel free to substitute dried cranberries with raisins or add chocolate chips for a decadent twist. Zesting an extra orange can also enhance that citrus flavor.
Storing & ReheatingDiscover how to make mouth-watering orange cranberry scones that are easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about five minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use cold butter to achieve that flaky texture everyone craves in scones
- Don’t overmix the dough; it should be gently combined to maintain lightness
- Always bake on parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect browning
Creating these orange cranberry scones reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen—filled with warmth and laughter as we baked together every Sunday morning.
FAQDiscover how to make mouth-watering orange cranberry scones that are easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.
What makes orange cranberry scones different?
The combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange creates a unique flavor profile unlike traditional scones.
Can I freeze orange cranberry scones?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked scone dough wrapped tightly for up to three months for fresh-baked treats later.
How do I know when the scones are done?
Check for a golden brown color on top and a toothpick inserted should come out clean when baked properly.
Irresistible Orange Cranberry Scones Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 8 scones 1x
Description
Savor the delightful blend of tart cranberries and zesty orange in these soft, buttery scones—perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (whole or chopped)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until combined.
- Add cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Fold this into the dry mixture along with cranberries until just combined.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface, pat into a circle about 1 inch thick, and cut into wedges or desired shapes.
- Place on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
