Catch the aroma of freshly baked orange cranberry scones wafting through your kitchen. These delightful treats are a perfect blend of sweet and tart, making them a delightful addition to any breakfast table or afternoon tea.
Imagine biting into a warm scone with its buttery texture and zesty orange notes dancing on your taste buds while the cranberries add a burst of sweetness. They are like little bursts of sunshine in every bite, perfect for cozy mornings or as a charming treat during gatherings with friends.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These orange cranberry scones are incredibly easy to whip up, even for beginner bakers
- The unique flavor combination elevates your usual breakfast routine
- Their golden-brown crust and soft interior make them visually appealing for any occasion
- They’re versatile enough to be enjoyed plain or paired with spreads like butter or cream cheese
I remember the first time I made these scones; my friends couldn’t get enough of them! They devoured them faster than I could take pictures for my blog.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best texture; it forms the base of our scrumptious scones.
- Baking Powder: Don’t skimp on this! It helps the scones rise beautifully and become fluffy.
- Granulated Sugar: A little sweetness goes a long way in balancing the tartness of cranberries.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors without making it salty.
- Unsalted Butter: Cold butter creates flaky layers; ensure it’s chilled before you start mixing.
- Cranberries (fresh or dried): Choose plump cranberries for juiciness; if using dried, opt for those without added sugar.
- Orange Zest: Freshly grated zest adds an aromatic citrus punch that brightens everything up.
- Heavy Cream: This makes our dough rich and adds moisture; it’s essential for that tender crumb.
- Egg: An egg binds everything together nicely while adding richness to the dough.
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 so your glorious creations won’t stick.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until well combined—this step ensures even distribution of dry ingredients.
Add Cold Butter: Cut cold butter into small cubes and toss them into the dry mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine until it resembles coarse crumbs—think sandy beach vibes.
Add Cranberries and Zest: Fold in your cranberries and orange zest gently. Keep it light; we want those juicy pockets throughout our dough!
Add Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together heavy cream and egg until blended. Pour this mixture into your dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix!
Shape the Dough: Turn onto a lightly floured surface and pat into an 8-inch circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges (like slicing a pizza) and transfer onto prepared baking sheet.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly by now! Let them cool slightly before indulging.
Enjoy these delightful orange cranberry scones fresh out of the oven with a pat of butter or alongside your favorite jam. They’re sure to brighten up any meal!
You Must Know
- These orange cranberry scones are a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors
- The zesty aroma fills your kitchen, making it impossible to resist
- Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles and warm hearts around the table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix dry ingredients first, then add butter and wet ingredients for a light texture. Finally, fold in cranberries and orange zest for a burst of flavor.
Add Your TouchDiscover how to make delightful orange cranberry scones that are bursting with flavor and easy to prepare. Perfect for any occasion!
Feel free to swap cranberries with dried cherries or blueberries for a different twist. Adding some chopped nuts can enhance the texture, while a sprinkle of cinnamon offers a warm spice note.
Storing & ReheatingDiscover how to make delightful orange cranberry scones that are bursting with flavor and easy to prepare. Perfect for any occasion!
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about five minutes until warm and fragrant.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use cold butter for flaky scones; it creates that perfect layered texture everyone loves
- Be careful not to overmix the dough; gentle folding is key for tenderness
- Experiment with glazes; a simple orange icing can elevate the flavors even more!
Creating these scones reminds me of Sunday mornings filled with laughter as my friends and I gathered around the table enjoying our creations together.
FAQDiscover how to make delightful orange cranberry scones that are bursting with flavor and easy to prepare. Perfect for any occasion!
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, but fresh cranberries will yield a tartier flavor; adjust sugar accordingly.
How do I know when my scones are done?
Scones should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch when baked through.
Can I freeze these orange cranberry scones?
Absolutely! Freeze baked scones individually, then reheat them directly from frozen when desired.
Delicious Orange Cranberry Scones Recipe
Delight in these warm orange cranberry scones, perfectly blending sweet and tart flavors—ideal for breakfast or tea time.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8 scones
Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour
- Baking Powder
- Granulated Sugar
- Salt
- Unsalted Butter
- Cranberries (fresh or dried)
- Orange Zest
- Heavy Cream
- Egg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
- Cut cold butter into small cubes and mix into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gently fold in cranberries and orange zest.
- In another bowl, whisk together heavy cream and egg, then pour into the dry mixture. Stir until just combined.
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface, pat into an 8-inch circle about 1 inch thick, and cut into wedges. Place on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown on top; let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone (50g)
- Calories: 176
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 33mg
