Cranberry Orange Scones are like a warm hug on a chilly morning, bursting with the tangy sweetness of cranberries and the bright zest of orange. The moment you bake them, your kitchen transforms into a cozy bakery, filled with aromas that make your taste buds dance in anticipation.
I remember the first time I made these delightful scones for my family. We were gathered around the table, sipping coffee and sharing stories when I pulled out these golden-brown beauties. The laughter and compliments that followed made me feel like a culinary superstar, and every bite was a reminder of why these scones hold a special place in my heart.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cranberry Orange Scones are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings.
- The flavor profile is a delightful balance of sweet and tart, guaranteed to please everyone.
- Their vivid orange and red colors make them visually appealing, adding charm to any table setting.
- Versatile enough for breakfast or afternoon tea, they can be enjoyed plain or with butter and jam.
I still chuckle remembering how my sister declared these scones were “life-changing” after just one bite during our last family brunch.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: Use good-quality flour for the best texture; it’s the foundation of your scone.
Granulated Sugar: A bit of sweetness balances the tart cranberries perfectly; adjust based on your preference.
Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps your scones rise beautifully; ensure it’s fresh!
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all flavors; don’t skip it!
Cold Butter: Cut into small cubes; it creates flaky layers when mixed into the dough.
Cranberries: Use fresh or frozen; they provide that delightful tartness that pairs so well with orange.
Orange Zest: Freshly grated zest gives an aromatic kick that brightens every bite.
Heavy Cream: This rich liquid contributes moisture; use it cold for best results.
Eggs: One egg adds richness and helps bind everything together for a cohesive dough.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Scones
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While waiting, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step ensures even distribution of flavors.
Add Butter and Combine: Toss in the cold butter cubes. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The key is to keep some chunks of butter intact for flakiness.
Add Cranberries and Zest: Gently fold in cranberries and orange zest. Be careful not to overmix; you want those bursts of flavor in every bite!
Incorporate Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together cold cream and egg until well blended. Gradually pour this mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring gently until just combined.
Shape and Bake Scones: Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Pat it into an 8-inch circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter for fun shapes. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
With each delicious bite of these scones, you’ll experience the sweet-tart explosion from the cranberries paired with zesty orange notes—it’s breakfast bliss!
You Must Know
- Baking these cranberry orange scones fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma, creating an irresistible atmosphere.
- They are perfect for brunch or afternoon tea, bringing a cheerful splash of color and flavor to any table.
- They are easy to make and even easier to devour.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you mix dry ingredients. Next, incorporate butter until crumbly, then add wet ingredients and cranberries. This ensures the scones rise beautifully while keeping their moisture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cranberries for blueberries or raisins. You can also experiment with lemon or lime zest instead of orange for a tangy twist that surprises your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes to regain their freshness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly fluffy scones, handle the dough gently and avoid overmixing.
- Ensure your butter is cold for that flaky texture everyone loves.
- Always use fresh cranberries for the best flavor and vibrant color in every bite.
Baking these cranberry orange scones has become a cherished tradition in my home; they’re always a hit at family gatherings! One time, I accidentally added too much orange zest—everyone still raved about them!
FAQ
Can I freeze cranberry orange scones?
Absolutely! Freeze them before baking for fresh scones anytime.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can use milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.
How do I know when the scones are done?
Scones should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch when done baking.
Cranberry Orange Scones
Cranberry Orange Scones are a delightful morning treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the zesty brightness of orange. These scones are incredibly easy to make and perfect for any occasion, from cozy breakfasts to festive brunches. With their golden-brown crust and tender crumb, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy them plain or with a spread of butter and jam for an extra touch of indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1 cup cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 3/4 cup heavy cream, cold
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- 3. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- 4. Fold in cranberries and orange zest gently.
- 5. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and egg. Gradually add to the dry mixture, stirring until just combined.
- 6. Turn out dough onto a floured surface, pat into an 8-inch circle about 1 inch thick, and cut into wedges.
- 7. Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone (70g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: For a twist, substitute cranberries with blueberries or raisins. Experiment with lemon or lime zest for different flavor profiles. Ensure butter is cold for optimal flakiness.
