An Irresistible Recipe for Cranberry Orange Scones
There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked scones wafting through your kitchen. These Cranberry Orange Scones are a delightful treat that perfectly balances the tartness of cranberries with the bright, citrusy notes of orange. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, these scones will surely bring a smile to your face.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! Not only are these scones incredibly flavorful, but they also have a tender, flaky texture that’s simply divine. The combination of cranberries and orange zest creates a refreshing taste that’s both sweet and slightly tart. Plus, the orange glaze adds a perfect finishing touch that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Pastry blender
- Rimmed baking sheet
- Parchment paper or nonstick baking sheet
- Medium-sized bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
Cranberry Orange Scone Recipe:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sugar + more for topping
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) cold butter
- ½ cup fresh cranberries
- ¾ – 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
Orange Glaze:
- 1 cup confectioner’s sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
Instructions
For the scones:
- Preheat your oven to 400º F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a nonstick baking sheet.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold butter to the bowl and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry blender until the largest pieces of butter are about the size of a pea, and the mixture resembles coarse meal.
- Stir in the cranberries, ¾ cup of heavy cream, orange juice, and orange zest. Press the dough together with your hands. If it doesn’t hold together, add more heavy cream until it just holds together.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a large round disc, about an inch thick.
- Cut the dough into equal-sized wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Melt about 2 tablespoons of butter and brush it on top of the dough.
- Bake the scones for 20-25 minutes or until they are just beginning to turn lightly brown. Remove from the oven and let cool for about five minutes.
Orange Glaze:
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together all the glaze ingredients until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over each scone after they have cooled slightly.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your butter is cold for the flakiest scones.
- Don’t overwork the dough; it should just come together.
- Adjust the amount of heavy cream as needed to achieve the right dough consistency.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For added flavor, try incorporating some lemon zest along with the orange zest.
- If you prefer a sweeter scone, sprinkle a little extra sugar on top before baking.
- Consider using vanilla sugar for a subtle vanilla note in your scones.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This scone recipe provides a delightful balance of flavors, and while indulgent, it’s a treat worth savoring. Exact nutritional values will vary, but expect each scone to be a delicious balance of carbohydrates, fats, and a small portion of protein.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dough.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with Almond Breeze unsweetened vanilla milk or another milk of your choice.
How should I store leftover scones?
Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze them for longer storage.
Conclusion
These Cranberry Orange Scones are a delightful addition to any breakfast or tea time. Their vibrant flavors and tender texture make them a must-try for any baking enthusiast. I invite you to give this recipe a try and share your delicious results with friends and family. Don’t forget to let me know how they turn out!
