If you are on the hunt for a delightful treat that perfectly balances tart and sweet, you’ve just found it with this Best Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe. These scones bring together the zesty brightness of fresh orange zest and juice with the burst of tangy cranberries, all wrapped up in a buttery, tender crumb that’s just begging to be enjoyed with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. Whether you’re surprising guests or treating yourself, these scones are a charming, homemade indulgence that feel both comforting and a little bit special. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become your go-to scone for every cozy occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to create layers of flavor and perfect texture. Each element plays an important role, whether it’s the cold butter creating flaky layers or the cranberries adding that signature pop of tartness.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the scones, providing structure and that tender crumb.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds the right hint of sweetness to balance the tart cranberries.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures your scones rise to fluffy and light perfection.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the scones.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and subtle spice for extra depth.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Creates flaky texture and richness when cut into the dough.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together and lends a tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds moisture and richness for a soft, tender scone.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and adds a lovely aromatic note.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest: Bursts of citrus flavor that awaken the palate.
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries: The star that brings bright tartness and beautiful color.
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar: For topping, giving a pleasant crunch and sparkle once baked.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Used in the glaze for a sweet finishing touch.
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice: Adds fresh citrus flavor and liquefies the glaze beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional): For drizzling glaze, intensifying the orange essence.
How to Make Best Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This not only prevents sticking but helps achieve that lovely golden base. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined. This dry mix sets the stage for perfectly textured scones.
Step 2: Cut in the Butter
Grab your cold, cubed butter and add it to the dry ingredients. Using either a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until you get a coarse crumb texture with visible pea-sized chunks of butter. This technique is crucial as those buttery pockets will melt during baking, creating the scones’ signature flakiness.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and the bright orange zest. The cream enriches the dough while the zest lends a fresh citrus punch. This mixture will bring moisture and flavor to the dry ingredients without over-saturating them.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry mixture. Stir gently and just until the dough comes together. Overmixing can develop gluten, making the scones tough rather than tender, so take it slow and keep an eye on the texture.
Step 5: Fold in Cranberries
Gently fold the cranberries into the dough, distributing them evenly without crushing. If using dried cranberries, make sure they’re soaked in warm water beforehand to plump them up, so they stay juicy and tender after baking.
Step 6: Shape and Cut the Dough
Lightly flour your workspace and turn the dough out onto it. Knead gently just a few times to bring everything together, then pat the dough into a disk about 1-inch thick. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 wedges, similar to slicing a pizza. This shape ensures even baking and that pretty classic scone look.
Step 7: Bake and Glaze
Place your scones on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them roughly 2 inches apart to allow room for rising. Sprinkle the tops with coarse sugar—the little sparkly crunch is such a delightful contrast. Bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes until golden on the edges and cooked through. Once cooled slightly, drizzle with a glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with fresh orange juice and additional zest, if desired. This glaze is the finishing touch that takes these scones to the next level.
How to Serve Best Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe
Garnishes
The orange glaze on top is already an irresistible garnish, but you can also dust the scones lightly with powdered sugar or add a few whole cranberries on top before glazing for a festive flair. A sprig of fresh rosemary nearby can add an unexpected fragrant touch if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
These scones pair beautifully with a dollop of clotted cream or whipped butter, and of course, your favorite jam, such as apricot or raspberry. They are equally lovely alongside a steaming cup of black tea or freshly brewed coffee to brighten your morning or elevate your afternoon.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch spread, arrange the scones on a tiered serving tray with small bowls of lemon curd, honey, or even mascarpone cheese on the side. You could also include a fresh fruit salad featuring oranges and pomegranate seeds for a vibrant, colorful contrast that complements the scone flavors perfectly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If there are any scones left (though that might be unlikely), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them fresh and delicious without drying out. For longer storage, the freezer is your best friend.
Freezing
Wrap individual scones tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, letting you enjoy this Best Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe any time you crave a comforting, citrusy treat.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen or stored scones as if freshly baked, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This method helps the scones regain their crisp edges and fluffy interior better than microwaving, which can sometimes make them rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries work just as well, but soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before adding to the dough to rehydrate and prevent them from being too chewy.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, whole milk or half-and-half can be used, but keep in mind this may slightly reduce the richness and tenderness of the scones.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for pastries. Be sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to maintain the scone’s structure.
How do I know when the scones are done baking?
Look for golden brown edges and a firm yet tender center. A toothpick inserted into the thickest part should come out clean. Avoid overbaking to keep them moist and flaky.
Is it okay to overmix the dough?
It’s best not to overmix. Overmixing develops gluten, which can make the scones tough instead of soft and flaky. Stir just until the ingredients come together for perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so heartwarming about baking scones that bring together fresh, vibrant flavors like cranberry and orange. This Best Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe is easy enough for a cozy weekend project yet impressive enough to share with friends and family. Trust me, once you’ve tasted these tender, citrus-kissed scones with their sweet glaze, they will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and bake a batch to spread some delicious joy!
Print
Best Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Best Cranberry Orange Scones are a delightful breakfast treat featuring a tender, buttery dough infused with fresh orange zest and bursting with tart cranberries. Topped with a sweet orange glaze and a sprinkle of coarse sugar, they offer a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 orange)
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries (if using dried, soak in warm water for 10 minutes)
Topping and Glaze
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for topping)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. This ensures flakiness.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and orange zest to combine.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the scones tender.
- Fold in Cranberries: Gently fold the fresh or soaked dried cranberries into the dough to evenly distribute them.
- Shape Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times just to bring it together, then pat it into a 1-inch thick disk.
- Cut Wedges: Using a sharp knife, cut the disk into 8 even wedges, resembling pizza slices.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for rising.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the tops of the scones with coarse sugar to add a delightful crunch and sparkle.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes until the scones turn golden brown on the edges and are cooked through.
- Cool: Let the scones cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps set their texture.
- Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and optional orange zest until smooth and pourable but not too thin.
- Glaze Scones: Once the scones have cooled, drizzle the orange glaze over each one. Allow the glaze to set before serving for the best flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use fresh cranberries for a tart flavor or dried cranberries soaked in warm water for 10 minutes to plump them up.
- Ensure the butter is cold and work quickly to keep the dough flaky.
- Do not overmix the dough to avoid tough scones.
- The glaze can be customized by adjusting the amount of orange juice for desired consistency.
- Scones are best enjoyed fresh the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
