Cranberry Orange Scones Fresh and Flavorful Treat

Name: Cranberry Bliss Orange Scones
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1.33 cups granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 cups unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 0.5 cups dried cranberries; 1 medium orange zest; 0.5 cups heavy cream; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 0.5 cups powdered sugar (for glaze); 1 tablespoon orange juice (for glaze)

by Harper on January 10, 2025

If you’re ready to impress your family or guests, try making Cranberry Orange Scones! These treats burst with fresh flavor and are easy to bake at home. I’ll share all the ingredients, tips, and tricks you need. Whether you’re a baking pro or just starting out, my step-by-step guide will help you create these delightful scones. Let’s dive in and make something delicious together!

$- 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1/3 cup granulated sugar - 1 tablespoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed - 1/2 cup dried cranberries - Zest of 1 medium orange - 1/2 cup heavy cream - 1 large egg - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze) - 1-2 tablespoons orange juice (for glaze) Each ingredient plays a key role in the scone's texture and flavor. Use precise measurements for best results. - Flour provides the structure. - Sugar adds sweetness. - Baking powder helps the scones rise. - Salt enhances flavor. - Butter creates flakiness. - Dried cranberries add tartness. - Orange zest gives that fresh citrus touch. - Heavy cream keeps the scones rich and moist. - Egg binds everything together. - Vanilla extract adds warmth. - Powdered sugar and orange juice make the glaze sweet and tangy. You can mix it up based on what you have at home. Here are some ideas: - Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste. - Swap granulated sugar for brown sugar for a hint of caramel flavor. - Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. - If you don't have dried cranberries, try raisins or chopped apricots. - For a lighter glaze, substitute orange juice with lemon juice. These changes can create unique flavors while keeping the scone's basic goodness intact. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This step helps the scones bake evenly and prevents sticking. You want to make sure your scones come out perfectly golden and easy to serve. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Start with 2 cups of all-purpose flour, then add 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well. Next, take 1/2 cup of cold, cubed butter. Add this to your dry mix. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine until it looks like coarse crumbs. Now, fold in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and the zest of one medium orange. In a separate bowl, mix your wet ingredients. Whisk together 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Pour this wet mix into your dry mix. Stir gently until just combined. Don’t over-mix; your dough should be shaggy but not smooth. Turn your dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently for about 30 seconds. Pat it into a circle, about 1 inch thick. Cut this into 8 wedges and place them on your prepared baking sheet. Bake the scones in your preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes. They should turn lightly golden on top. While the scones bake, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and 1-2 tablespoons of orange juice until smooth. Once the scones cool for a few minutes, drizzle the glaze on top. Enjoy the sweet and zesty flavor of your cranberry orange scones! To make flaky scones, keep your butter cold. Cold butter creates pockets of steam in the dough. This helps the scones rise and stay light. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix the butter into the flour. Aim for a crumbly texture, like sand. Do not over-mix the dough; it should be slightly shaggy. Also, make sure to handle the dough gently when shaping. This keeps the scones tender. One common mistake is overworking the dough. This can make your scones tough. Remember, mix until just combined. Another mistake is using warm butter. Always use chilled butter for the best results. Also, watch the baking time. If you bake them too long, they may dry out. Lastly, don’t forget to preheat your oven. This ensures even baking right from the start. You can boost flavors in your scones easily. Add nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for crunch. For a twist, try adding white chocolate chips. They pair well with cranberries. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. If you love citrus, add more orange zest to enhance the flavor. Each ingredient brings a new layer to your scones. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite mix! Pro Tips Chill Your Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream are chilled before mixing. This helps create flaky layers in your scones. Avoid Over-Mixing: Mix the dough until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to tough scones. Create Even Shapes: Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut the dough into wedges for uniform baking and presentation. Add Extra Zest: For a more intense orange flavor, consider adding a bit more orange zest to the dough. {{image_2}} You can make scones more fun by adding different fruits or nuts. Try using blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples. Each fruit brings its own flavor and texture. If you love nuts, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans. They add crunch and richness. Mix and match to find your favorite combinations. Get creative with flavors! Instead of just orange, try adding lemon zest for a tangy twist. You can also mix vanilla with almond extract for a warm note. Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg add warmth and depth. Experiment until you find a flavor you love. The possibilities are endless! While the orange glaze is delicious, you can switch it up. A lemon glaze adds a bright kick. You can also use a simple milk glaze for a sweeter taste. For a chocolate touch, melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the scones. Each glaze gives a new twist to your treats! To keep your scones fresh, store them in an airtight container. I recommend placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. This method helps maintain their fluffy texture. If you store them at room temperature, they will last for about two days. After that, they may start to lose their charm. For longer storage, freezing is the best option. Wrap each scone in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This keeps them safe from freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, just take out the desired amount. To reheat your scones, you can use the oven or microwave. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. This restores their crispiness. If you need a quicker method, use the microwave. Heat them for 15-20 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat them, or they may become tough. Enjoy your scones warm for the best taste! Yes, you can use fresh cranberries. Fresh cranberries will add a tart flavor. Chop them into smaller pieces. This helps them mix well into the dough. You may need to add a bit more sugar to balance the tartness. Cranberry orange scones pair well with many items. Here are some ideas: - Butter: Spread on warm scones for extra richness. - Jam: Orange marmalade or berry jam adds sweetness. - Tea or Coffee: A warm drink complements the scones nicely. - Cream Cheese: Spread for a creamy texture and flavor. Check the scones after 15 minutes. They should be lightly golden on top. You can also insert a toothpick. If it comes out clean, they are done. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft and flaky. You’ve learned how to make delicious scones with simple steps. We covered the right ingredients, measurements, and tasty substitutions. We outlined each baking step to ensure perfect scones. Plus, I shared tips to avoid mistakes and make them flaky. You can even try different flavors and store them easily. Remember, baking is fun, so experiment and find what you love. Enjoy your scones fresh and warm!$

Why I Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of tart cranberries and zesty orange creates a refreshing and vibrant flavor profile that’s perfect for any occasion.
Easy to Make: This scone recipe comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers looking for a delightful treat.
Perfect for Any Time of Day: These scones can be enjoyed for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as a light dessert, making them versatile and crowd-pleasing.
Impressive Presentation: Serve them warm on a tiered stand, garnished with fresh cranberries and orange slices, and watch them become the star of your table.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1/3 cup granulated sugar

– 1 tablespoon baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

– 1/2 cup dried cranberries

– Zest of 1 medium orange

– 1/2 cup heavy cream

– 1 large egg

– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

– 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)

– 1-2 tablespoons orange juice (for glaze)

Measurement Details

Each ingredient plays a key role in the scone’s texture and flavor. Use precise measurements for best results.

– Flour provides the structure.

– Sugar adds sweetness.

– Baking powder helps the scones rise.

– Salt enhances flavor.

– Butter creates flakiness.

– Dried cranberries add tartness.

– Orange zest gives that fresh citrus touch.

– Heavy cream keeps the scones rich and moist.

– Egg binds everything together.

– Vanilla extract adds warmth.

– Powdered sugar and orange juice make the glaze sweet and tangy.

Substitutions and Alternatives

You can mix it up based on what you have at home. Here are some ideas:

– Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste.

– Swap granulated sugar for brown sugar for a hint of caramel flavor.

– Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

– If you don’t have dried cranberries, try raisins or chopped apricots.

– For a lighter glaze, substitute orange juice with lemon juice.

These changes can create unique flavors while keeping the scone’s basic goodness intact.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet

First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This step helps the scones bake evenly and prevents sticking. You want to make sure your scones come out perfectly golden and easy to serve.

Mixing Dry and Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Start with 2 cups of all-purpose flour, then add 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well. Next, take 1/2 cup of cold, cubed butter. Add this to your dry mix. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine until it looks like coarse crumbs. Now, fold in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and the zest of one medium orange.

In a separate bowl, mix your wet ingredients. Whisk together 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Pour this wet mix into your dry mix. Stir gently until just combined. Don’t over-mix; your dough should be shaggy but not smooth.

Forming, Shaping, and Baking the Scones

Turn your dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently for about 30 seconds. Pat it into a circle, about 1 inch thick. Cut this into 8 wedges and place them on your prepared baking sheet. Bake the scones in your preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes. They should turn lightly golden on top.

While the scones bake, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and 1-2 tablespoons of orange juice until smooth. Once the scones cool for a few minutes, drizzle the glaze on top. Enjoy the sweet and zesty flavor of your cranberry orange scones!

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Flaky Scones

To make flaky scones, keep your butter cold. Cold butter creates pockets of steam in the dough. This helps the scones rise and stay light. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix the butter into the flour. Aim for a crumbly texture, like sand. Do not over-mix the dough; it should be slightly shaggy. Also, make sure to handle the dough gently when shaping. This keeps the scones tender.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overworking the dough. This can make your scones tough. Remember, mix until just combined. Another mistake is using warm butter. Always use chilled butter for the best results. Also, watch the baking time. If you bake them too long, they may dry out. Lastly, don’t forget to preheat your oven. This ensures even baking right from the start.

Enhancing Flavor with Additional Ingredients

You can boost flavors in your scones easily. Add nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for crunch. For a twist, try adding white chocolate chips. They pair well with cranberries. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. If you love citrus, add more orange zest to enhance the flavor. Each ingredient brings a new layer to your scones. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite mix!

Pro Tips

Chill Your Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream are chilled before mixing. This helps create flaky layers in your scones.
Avoid Over-Mixing: Mix the dough until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to tough scones.
Create Even Shapes: Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut the dough into wedges for uniform baking and presentation.
Add Extra Zest: For a more intense orange flavor, consider adding a bit more orange zest to the dough.

Variations

Adding Different Fruits or Nuts

You can make scones more fun by adding different fruits or nuts. Try using blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples. Each fruit brings its own flavor and texture. If you love nuts, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans. They add crunch and richness. Mix and match to find your favorite combinations.

Creative Flavor Combinations

Get creative with flavors! Instead of just orange, try adding lemon zest for a tangy twist. You can also mix vanilla with almond extract for a warm note. Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg add warmth and depth. Experiment until you find a flavor you love. The possibilities are endless!

Glaze Alternatives

While the orange glaze is delicious, you can switch it up. A lemon glaze adds a bright kick. You can also use a simple milk glaze for a sweeter taste. For a chocolate touch, melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the scones. Each glaze gives a new twist to your treats!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Scones

To keep your scones fresh, store them in an airtight container. I recommend placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. This method helps maintain their fluffy texture. If you store them at room temperature, they will last for about two days. After that, they may start to lose their charm.

Freezing Tips for Long-Term Storage

For longer storage, freezing is the best option. Wrap each scone in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This keeps them safe from freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just take out the desired amount.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat your scones, you can use the oven or microwave. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. This restores their crispiness. If you need a quicker method, use the microwave. Heat them for 15-20 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat them, or they may become tough. Enjoy your scones warm for the best taste!

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh cranberries. Fresh cranberries will add a tart flavor. Chop them into smaller pieces. This helps them mix well into the dough. You may need to add a bit more sugar to balance the tartness.

What can I serve with cranberry orange scones?

Cranberry orange scones pair well with many items. Here are some ideas:

– Butter: Spread on warm scones for extra richness.

– Jam: Orange marmalade or berry jam adds sweetness.

– Tea or Coffee: A warm drink complements the scones nicely.

– Cream Cheese: Spread for a creamy texture and flavor.

How do I know when the scones are done baking?

Check the scones after 15 minutes. They should be lightly golden on top. You can also insert a toothpick. If it comes out clean, they are done. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft and flaky.

You’ve learned how to make delicious scones with simple steps. We covered the right ingredients, measurements, and tasty substitutions. We outlined each baking step to ensure perfect scones. Plus, I shared tips to avoid mistakes and make them flaky. You can even try different flavors and store them easily. Remember, baking is fun, so experiment and find what you love. Enjoy your scones fresh and war

Cranberry Bliss Orange Scones

Delicious scones infused with orange zest and dried cranberries, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Total Time 35

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1.33 cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.5 cups unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
0.5 cups dried cranberries
1 medium orange zest
0.5 cups heavy cream
1 large egg
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
0.5 cups powdered sugar (for glaze)
1 tablespoon orange juice (for glaze)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add the chilled, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Fold in the dried cranberries and orange zest until evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract.
Pour the wet mixture into the flour mixture and stir until just combined. Avoid over-mixing; the dough should be slightly shaggy.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about 30 seconds. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into 8 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until the scones are lightly golden on top.
While the scones are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice in a small bowl until smooth.
Once the scones are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before drizzling the glaze on top.

Notes

Serve warm on a tiered serving stand, dusted with powdered sugar and garnished with fresh cranberries and orange slices.

Keyword baking, cranberry, orange, scones