Desserts > Pastries > Other Pastries > Scones Recipe (sweet)

Cranberry Orange Scones

These Cranberry Orange Scones are a perfect blend of tangy and sweet, ideal for a holiday breakfast or a cozy afternoon treat. The bright citrus notes of orange complement the tartness of cranberries, creating a delightful flavor profile. This recipe ensures scones that are moist, tender, and packed with festive flavors.

Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time
20-25 minutes
Servings
8 scones
Ingredients
  • 2 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 1/3 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Baking Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) Cold Unsalted Butter
  • 2 tablespoons Orange Zest
  • 1 cup Dried Cranberries
  • 3/4 cup Heavy Cream
  • 2 tablespoons Orange Juice
  • 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar

Getting Started

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper ensures the scones don't stick and simplifies cleanup.

Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisking ensures the baking powder is evenly distributed for proper rising.

Cutting in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Small butter pieces create a more tender scone.

Adding the Orange Zest and Cranberries

Stir in the orange zest and dried cranberries. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Adding the Cream

Gradually add the heavy cream and mix until just combined. The dough should be slightly sticky but not overly wet. Be careful not to overmix, as this develops gluten and makes the scones tough.

Shaping the Scones

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat it into a 1-inch thick circle. Use a sharp knife or a biscuit cutter to cut the circle into 8 wedges or rounds.

Baking the Scones

Place the scones onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with heavy cream. Brushing with cream helps the scones achieve a beautiful golden-brown color.

Making the Orange Glaze (Optional)

While the scones are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. Adjust the amount of orange juice to achieve your desired consistency. Once the scones have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the tops.

Baking Time

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the scones cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: Approximately 375-425 kcal; Carbohydrates: 50-60g; Protein: 4-6g; Fat: 17-22g (Note: These are estimates. Actual values will vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

This recipe contains gluten and dairy. Adjustments might be necessary for individuals with dietary restrictions such as gluten intolerance or lactose intolerance. Using gluten-free flour and dairy-free alternatives will change the texture and flavor. Added sugar content should be considered for diabetic individuals.

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FAQ

  • Can I use fresh cranberries?

    Yes, you can use fresh cranberries. Chop them roughly before adding them to the dough.
  • Can I substitute the heavy cream with milk or buttermilk?

    Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with milk or buttermilk. Buttermilk will add a slight tang and create a more tender crumb.
  • How do I prevent my scones from being dry?

    Avoid overmixing the dough, and make sure to use cold butter. Also, do not overbake the scones. They should be golden brown but still slightly soft in the center.
  • Can I freeze the scones?

    Yes, you can freeze baked scones for up to 2 months. Let them cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.