Cranberry Orange Scones

Name: Cranberry Orange Scones
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: All-purpose flour; Granulated sugar; Baking powder; Salt; Cold butter; Dried cranberries; Orange zest; Heavy cream

Published: February 16, 2025

by Aria

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Scones

Delicious Flavor Combination: The tangy cranberries paired with fresh orange zest create a unique and refreshing taste that elevates traditional scone recipes.
Simple to Make: With just a few basic ingredients and easy steps, anyone can whip up these delightful scones without any hassle.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive gathering or a quiet afternoon snack, these scones fit seamlessly into any setting.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Scones

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

All-Purpose Flour: This serves as the base of your scone dough, providing structure and texture.
Granulated Sugar: A small amount sweetens the dough while balancing the tartness of the cranberries.
Baking Powder: This leavening agent ensures that your scones rise beautifully in the oven.
Salt: A pinch enhances all flavors in the scone mixture.
Cold Butter: Cut into small pieces, it creates flaky layers when mixed into the flour mixture.
Dried Cranberries: These provide bursts of tartness throughout each bite; opt for unsweetened if you prefer less sugar.
Orange Zest: Freshly grated zest infuses the dough with a vibrant citrus flavor that complements the cranberries perfectly.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the dough and helps bind all ingredients together; it also contributes to a tender crumb.

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

How to Make Cranberry Orange Scones

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Cut in Butter

Add cold butter pieces to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Add Flavorings

Stir in dried cranberries and orange zest until evenly distributed throughout the dry mixture.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Pour heavy cream into the bowl. Stir gently until just combined—do not over-mix. The dough should be slightly sticky but hold its shape.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Transfer dough onto a floured surface. Pat into an approximately one-inch thick circle. Cut into wedges or rounds using a sharp knife or biscuit cutter. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Transfer to plates and serve warm for an unforgettable treat.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream are chilled before use; this helps achieve that flaky texture you desire in your scones.
Avoid Over-Mixing: Mix just until combined; overworking can result in tough scones instead of tender ones.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch or substitute blueberries for cranberries based on preference.

Mistakes to avoid

Overmixing the Dough: One common mistake when making cranberry orange scones is overmixing the dough. When you mix too much, the gluten develops, which leads to tough scones instead of light and flaky ones. To avoid this, gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. A few lumps are perfectly fine. Remember, less is more when it comes to mixing.
Using Dried Cranberries Instead of Fresh: While dried cranberries can be a convenient option, they lack the bright flavor and moisture that fresh cranberries provide. Fresh cranberries add a tartness that beautifully balances the sweetness of orange zest. If you can’t find fresh cranberries, consider using frozen ones instead. Just make sure not to thaw them before adding them to your dough.
Skipping Chilling Time: Many bakers skip the chilling step to save time, but this can significantly impact the final texture of your cranberry orange scones. Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes helps solidify the butter, promoting a flaky texture when baked. It also allows flavors to meld together better. So resist the urge to rush; your patience will pay off.

Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Orange Scones

This Cranberry Orange Scones recipe is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

A cup of hot tea: Enjoy these delightful scones alongside your favorite tea. The citrusy notes complement a variety of teas, enhancing their flavor.
Fresh fruit preserves: Spread some raspberry or strawberry preserves on top for an added burst of sweetness. The tartness of the fruit balances perfectly with the scone’s flavors.
Cream cheese frosting: For a decadent treat, drizzle cream cheese frosting over the scones. This adds richness and elevates the overall taste experience.

FAQs

FAQs about Cranberry Orange Scones

What are the main ingredients in Cranberry Orange Scones?

The main ingredients for making delicious Cranberry Orange Scones include all-purpose flour, fresh cranberries, orange zest, sugar, baking powder, butter, and heavy cream. These ingredients come together to create a light and fluffy texture while delivering a delightful burst of flavor. The combination of tart cranberries and zesty oranges makes these scones a perfect treat for breakfast or afternoon tea.

Can I make Cranberry Orange Scones ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Cranberry Orange Scones ahead of time. You can either shape them and freeze them before baking or bake them and store them in an airtight container. If you choose to freeze unbaked scones, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time when ready to bake. Storing baked scones in an airtight container helps retain their freshness for up to three days.

How do I store leftover Cranberry Orange Scones?

To store leftover Cranberry Orange Scones properly, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to two months and easily reheated in an oven or microwave.

Can I substitute any ingredients in the Cranberry Orange Scone recipe?

Certainly. You can customize the Cranberry Orange Scone recipe based on your preferences. Instead of fresh cranberries, try using dried cranberries or even blueberries for a different flavor profile. For a healthier option, consider replacing all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour. Additionally, you can use yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter version without compromising taste.

Conclusion for Cranberry Orange Scones

In summary, Cranberry Orange Scones are a delightful treat that combines tangy cranberries with zesty orange flavors for a refreshing twist on classic scones. They are easy to prepare and perfect for various occasions such as breakfast or brunch gatherings. Remember to pair these scones with your favorite beverages or spreads to enhance their flavor further. With options to make ahead and store efficiently, these scones promise to stay fresh and tasty whenever you crave something special. Enjoy baking and savoring these delightful treats.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card