Name: Delicious Orange Cranberry Scones
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1 cup cranberries (fresh or dried); Zest of 1 orange; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 1 large egg

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Imagine biting into a warm orange cranberry scone fresh from the oven. The flaky exterior yields to reveal an explosion of zesty orange flavor mingling beautifully with tart cranberries. It’s like a dance party in your mouth where everyone gets along splendidly. These delightful treats are not only perfect for breakfast but also fantastic for brunch gatherings or cozy afternoons with tea.

Every time I whip up these orange cranberry scones, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen. The aroma of citrus and berries wafting through the house brings back memories of sunny mornings spent together over coffee and pastries. Each bite takes me straight to that happy place where laughter is abundant and calories don’t count.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These scrumptious orange cranberry scones are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros
Bursting with vibrant flavors, they offer a delightful blend of sweetness and tartness in every bite
Visually appealing with their bright colors, they make an impressive centerpiece on any table
Ideal for breakfast or afternoon tea, these versatile scones can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature

I remember the first time I served these at a family gathering; everyone raved about them! They disappeared faster than I could say “seconds!”

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: A staple ingredient that provides structure; measure carefully for the best results.
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
Baking Powder: Essential for rising; ensure it’s fresh for optimal fluffiness in your scones.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors; don’t skip this step!
Unsalted Butter: Use cold butter cut into cubes to achieve that flaky texture we all adore.
Cranberries: Fresh or dried cranberries work beautifully; they add a lovely tartness that balances the sweetness.
Orange Zest: Freshly grated zest is key; it infuses each bite with bright citrus notes.
Heavy Cream: This rich ingredient keeps your scones moist; you can substitute milk if needed.
Eggs: One egg adds richness and binds everything together perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper while you gather your ingredients.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. The mixture should resemble sand after mixing.

Add Butter & Mix In Cranberries: Toss in cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it into the flour until crumbly. Stir in cranberries and orange zest gently.

Create Wet Mixture & Combine: In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and egg until smooth. Pour this mixture into dry ingredients gradually while folding gently until just combined.

Shape & Cut the 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.

Bake & Serve Warm!: Transfer the shaped dough onto prepared baking sheets and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving them warm!

These orange cranberry scones will fill your home with an irresistible aroma as they bake away in the oven! Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them in an airtight container for later indulgence—if they last that long!

You Must Know

These orange cranberry scones are delightful with a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness
Their flaky texture makes them irresistibly delicious, whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted later
Plus, they fill your kitchen with a heavenly aroma that’ll have everyone rushing to the table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix dry ingredients first, then incorporate cold butter until crumbly. Add cranberries and orange zest, followed by wet ingredients just until combined. Shape into rounds and bake until golden brown for perfect scones.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cranberries for dried cherries or blueberries for a different flavor twist. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the taste even more. You might also drizzle some icing over the cooled scones for a sweet finish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for five to seven minutes to restore their delicious texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use cold butter for flaky scones; it makes all the difference in texture and taste
Don’t overmix the dough; this will keep your scones tender and light
Consider adding orange juice to enhance flavor; it brightens every bite beautifully

Baking these orange cranberry scones became a family tradition after my cousin brought them to Thanksgiving brunch last year. Everyone was obsessed! Seeing my aunt’s face light up when she took a bite was priceless.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, but you may need to add extra sugar since fresh cranberries are more tart.

How do I make these scones vegan?

Substitute butter with coconut oil and use plant-based milk instead of regular milk.

What can I serve with orange cranberry scones?

They pair wonderfully with clotted cream, butter, or even a citrus marmalade for added flavor.