Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe: A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Tangy

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There’s something about the combination of cranberry and orange that just feels like a celebration in every bite. This Cranberry Orange Scones recipe brings together the tartness of fresh cranberries and the vibrant, citrusy zest of oranges for a truly irresistible treat. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet morning, these scones offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, making them an excellent addition to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love Cranberry Orange Scones

This Cranberry Orange Scones recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for those busy mornings or when you need a last-minute treat for a gathering. The combination of fresh cranberries and orange zest brings a bright, refreshing flavor that pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. Plus, these scones offer health benefits, with the antioxidants from cranberries and the vitamin C from oranges, making them a delicious yet nutritious option.

Perfectly fluffy and lightly sweet, these scones are sure to become a family favorite. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the satisfying balance of flavors in each bite.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour: The foundation of the scones, providing structure and texture. You can substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier, heartier flavor.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the scones. For a healthier alternative, use coconut sugar.
Baking powder: Helps the scones rise, giving them a light, airy texture.

Salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Unsalted butter: Cold and cubed butter is essential for creating the flaky texture of these scones.
Fresh cranberries: Offers a tart burst of flavor. You can also use dried cranberries, though fresh ones provide a more vibrant taste

Orange zest: Adds a fragrant citrus aroma that brightens the entire scone.
Heavy cream: Adds moisture and richness to the dough. You can swap it for buttermilk for a tangy flavor.
Egg: Helps bind the ingredients and provides structure.
Vanilla extract: A subtle yet essential flavor enhancer.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to make these scones gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For a dairy-free version, swap the butter for vegan butter and use almond milk in place of heavy cream. If you’re watching your sugar intake, try using a sugar substitute like monk fruit or stevia for a healthier twist without compromising flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven: Start by setting the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until fully combined.
Add the butter: Cut the cold, cubed butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingers, until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in cranberries and zest: Add the chopped cranberries and orange zest to the flour mixture, folding them in gently to distribute evenly.
Prepare the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together.
Shape and cut: Flatten the dough into a 1-inch thick circle and cut it into wedges, like a pizza. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and fragrant.

Cool and serve: Allow the scones to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with butter or a drizzle of honey.

Tips & Tricks

To ensure perfect cranberry orange scones every time, keep these tips in mind:

Use cold ingredients: Cold butter and cream are essential for creating flaky layers in your scones.

Don’t overmix: Overworking the dough can result in tough scones. Mix just until combined for a tender, light texture.
Chill the dough: If you have time, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps enhance the flavor and results in a flakier texture.
Brush with cream: For a golden, shiny finish, brush the tops of the scones with a little heavy cream before baking.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

These Cranberry Orange Scones are perfect on their own, but you can elevate them with a variety of sides or variations. Try serving them with a dollop of clotted cream or a drizzle of honey for added richness. You can also pair them with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or even hot cocoa for the ultimate indulgent experience.

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to customize this recipe:

Chocolate Chip Cranberry Scones: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a rich and indulgent twist.

Maple Pecan Scones: Swap cranberries for chopped pecans and add a touch of maple syrup for a warm, nutty flavor.
Gluten-Free Scones: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these scones suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Vegan Scones: Substitute the heavy cream and egg with vegan-friendly alternatives like almond milk and a flax egg.

Health Benefits and Seasonal Appeal

Cranberries are a powerhouse of antioxidants, and oranges are packed with vitamin C, making these scones not only delicious but also a healthier choice compared to many traditional baked goods. The combination of these ingredients helps boost immunity and supports overall wellness, making them an excellent choice for a seasonal treat during the colder months.

The refreshing citrus flavor and tart cranberries make these scones perfect for holiday gatherings, brunches, or cozy mornings by the fire. Whether served for a special occasion or just because, Cranberry Orange Scones bring joy to any table.

By following this recipe, you’ll create a batch of scones that’s sure to delight. The balance of sweetness and tartness, combined with the flaky, tender texture, will make them a hit with family and friends. Enjoy!

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Cranberry Orange Scones are the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and buttery, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a batch for a cozy breakfast, a festive brunch, or as a thoughtful gift, these scones are sure to be a hit. Their combination of fresh cranberries and vibrant orange zest offers a refreshing twist on the traditional scone, and the addition of simple ingredients makes them easy to whip up. So go ahead and bake a batch to share with family and friends — these Cranberry Orange Scones will become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen cranberries in the Cranberry Orange Scones recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries in this recipe. Just chop them while still frozen and fold them directly into the dough without thawing. This will help maintain the scone’s texture and prevent excess moisture.

Can I make Cranberry Orange Scones ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This will enhance the flavors and result in even more delicious scones. You can also freeze unbaked scones and bake them directly from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I store leftover Cranberry Orange Scones?

To store leftover scones, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just reheat them before serving for the best texture.

More Relevant Recipes

Cranberry Orange Scones

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Author: Anna
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8 scones 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Cranberry Orange Scones recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the citrusy zest of orange, creating a perfectly balanced and irresistible treat. Light, flaky, and easy to prepare, these scones are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon snack.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 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

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Cut the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in the chopped cranberries and orange zest until evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it a few times until it comes together.
Flatten the dough into a 1-inch thick circle and cut it into wedges.

Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Let the scones cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For a flakier texture, make sure to use cold butter and heavy cream.
Don’t overmix the dough, as this can result in tough scones.

Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or other dried fruits to customize the scones to your taste.
To make them vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg and use dairy-free alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter.
To store, keep them in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Baked Goods
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American