Save to Pinterest These scones are a delicate balance of tender, buttery dough infused with vibrant orange zest and tart cranberries. The dough is gently mixed to maintain a flaky texture, then shaped and baked to a golden finish. A smooth glaze made of powdered sugar and fresh orange juice adds a sweet, bright citrus touch, enhancing every bite. Perfect accompanied by tea or as a breakfast treat.
Discovering these orange cranberry scones was like stumbling upon a hidden breakfast treasure. The first bite brought such a warm, buttery surprise brightened by tart cranberries and the zing of fresh orange that I knew I had to make them again and again.
I still remember the day unexpected guests arrived and I whipped these up in under 40 minutes; their smiles and compliments made it feel like a small celebration.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: I reach for this classic because it gives the scones their tender crumb and structure.
- Cold unsalted butter: Cubed and cold to ensure flaky layers, it’s what makes these scones buttery and light.
- Dried cranberries: They add that perfect tart burst; chopping fresh ones coarsely works great too.
- Fresh orange zest: Brightens every bite with citrus aroma and flavor.
- Heavy cream: I use it in the dough and to brush on top for a golden finish.
- Powdered sugar and orange juice: These combine into a sweet, tangy glaze that brings the whole dish together.
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Preheat your oven and line your baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the scones from sticking while you prepare the dough.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and orange zest until evenly combined, filling your kitchen with a subtle citrus aroma.
- Incorporate the Butter:
- Cut cold butter into the flour mix using your fingertips or a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs; the texture feels slightly sandy with small pea-sized bits.
- Add the Wet Ingredients:
- Whisk cream, egg, and vanilla then pour gently over the dry mix, stirring until the dough just starts to come together with cranberry bursts visible.
- Shape the Dough:
- Turn onto a floured surface and pat into a 7–8 inch circle about an inch thick, feeling the cool dough in your hands.
- Cut and Arrange:
- Slice into 8 wedges and space them on the baking sheet, leaving room to expand.
- Brush and Bake:
- Lightly brush the tops with heavy cream for a beautiful golden finish and bake until the scones are puffed and golden brown, filling your kitchen with comforting warmth.
- Glaze It Up:
- Mix powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest into a smooth glaze, then drizzle over slightly cooled scones to add a sweet citrus finish.
Save to Pinterest This dish became more than just food the day I served it at a small gathering—each bite sparked conversations and laughter, making memories as sweet as the glaze on the scones.
Keeping It Fresh
Scones are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but you can store leftovers wrapped tightly in foil for up to two days and lightly warm them before serving to revive their buttery texture.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
Pairing these scones with a strong Earl Grey or a delicate breakfast tea enhances the citrus and cranberry notes beautifully; I also love adding a dab of clotted cream or honey on the side.
A Time This Recipe Saved the Day
Once I forgot to pick up dessert for a dinner party but had these scones ready; their light sweetness and bright flavors turned what could have been a panic into a compliment-filled moment.
- Remember to pat the dough gently to keep those tender layers intact.
- Always zest fresh oranges rather than using dried to maximize brightness.
- If you’re out of cranberries, dried cherries are a fantastic substitute.
Save to Pinterest Thanks for hanging out in my kitchen over these scones—can’t wait for you to make them a part of your mornings too!
Recipes Q&A
- → How do I keep the scones tender?
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Use cold butter and avoid overmixing the dough to maintain a flaky, tender texture.
- → Can I substitute dried cranberries with fresh ones?
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Yes, fresh or frozen cranberries can be used but chop coarsely and toss with a little flour before adding to prevent excess moisture.
- → What is the purpose of the glaze?
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The glaze adds a sweet citrus flavor that complements the tart cranberries and bright orange zest in the scones.
- → How should I store these scones?
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Store cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze for longer keeping.
- → Can these be served warm?
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Yes, serving warm enhances the buttery texture and flavor, especially when paired with tea.
