Cranberry Orange Scones Fresh and Flavorful Treat

ByJasmine
To make cranberry orange scones, gather these items: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1/3 cup granulated sugar - 1 tablespoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed - 1/2 cup dried cranberries - Zest of 1 orange - 1/2 cup heavy cream - 1 large egg - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Not all homes have every ingredient. You can swap some of these: - Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a heartier scone. - Coconut sugar or brown sugar can replace granulated sugar for a deeper flavor. - If you don’t have heavy cream, use milk or a non-dairy milk. Just keep the dough a bit thicker. - You can substitute the egg with a flax egg if you're vegan. Just mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Choosing the best ingredients makes a big difference. Here are my tips: - Look for flour that is fresh and finely ground. Check the date on the bag. - Choose unsalted butter to control the saltiness in your scones. Cold butter helps create a flaky texture. - When selecting cranberries, look for ones that are plump and not hard. This means they are fresher. - Use a bright, fragrant orange to get the best zest. The zest adds great flavor. With these ingredients and tips, your cranberry orange scones will shine! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for even baking. While the oven warms, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will keep the scones from sticking. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well is important for the scones’ structure. Make sure there are no clumps. Next, add 1/2 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix it in until it looks like coarse crumbs. Add in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and the zest of 1 orange. Stir until everything is mixed evenly. In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until it is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps the scones light. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently a few times to bring it together. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the circle into 8 wedges. Place these wedges on your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden. Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these fresh, flavorful treats warm! To make light and fluffy scones, keep your butter cold. Cold butter makes little pockets in the dough. These pockets help the scones rise. You should also mix the dough gently. Overmixing can lead to tough scones. When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, only mix until just combined. This ensures a tender texture. For golden scones, keep an eye on your oven. Preheat it to 400°F (200°C) before baking. Use parchment paper on your baking sheet to avoid sticking. Place the scones a bit apart for even baking. Bake for 15-20 minutes until they are lightly golden on top. If you want a shinier finish, brush the tops with cream before baking. Serve your cranberry orange scones warm for the best flavor. A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice adds sweetness. Drizzle it over the scones for a lovely finish. For extra flair, garnish with orange zest. Pair the scones with tea or coffee for a delightful treat any time of day. Pro Tips Keep Butter Cold: Ensure your butter is very cold before mixing it into the flour. This helps create a flaky texture in the scones. Don’t Overmix: Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just moistened. Overmixing can lead to dense scones. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh orange zest and high-quality dried cranberries. Glaze for Extra Flavor: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the scones for added sweetness and a beautiful finish. {{image_2}} You can swap some ingredients for healthier options. Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This adds fiber and nutrients. You might also try honey or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar. It gives a unique flavor while cutting refined sugar. For a lower-fat option, replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt. It keeps your scones moist but reduces calories. Want to mix things up? Try adding different fruits. Blueberries or raspberries work great in this recipe. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. If you love nuts, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts for a nice crunch. This gives your scones a whole new flavor profile. Seasonal ingredients can elevate your scones. In spring, add lemon zest or fresh herbs like rosemary. They bring a fresh taste. In fall, consider pumpkin puree or spices like ginger for a cozy touch. During winter, dried fruits like apricots or figs can add sweetness. Feel free to adjust based on what’s in season for a unique twist each time! To keep your leftover scones fresh, place them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. You can store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, storing in the fridge is a good option. Just make sure they are well sealed to avoid moisture. When you’re ready to enjoy your scones again, reheating them is simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5 to 10 minutes. This warms them up and brings back their nice, fluffy texture. You can also microwave them for 15 to 20 seconds, but they may not be as crisp. If you want to save scones for later, freezing works great. First, let the scones cool completely. Then, wrap each scone in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When you want to eat them, just thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature. Heat them up as mentioned above for the best taste. Yes, you can use fresh cranberries. They give a tart flavor. Fresh berries may add moisture. You might need to reduce the heavy cream slightly. Make sure to chop them into smaller pieces to mix well into the dough. To make these scones gluten-free, swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Check that it has xanthan gum in the mix. If not, add 1 teaspoon to your dry ingredients. This helps bind the dough and gives it good texture. Serve the scones warm for the best taste. A drizzle of a simple glaze enhances their flavor. Mix powdered sugar with orange juice for a sweet topping. Garnish with extra orange zest for a pop of color and aroma. Absolutely! Adding nuts or chocolate can enhance the flavor. Try chopped walnuts or pecans for a nice crunch. You can also mix in chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Just fold them into the dough along with the cranberries. These cranberry orange scones require simple ingredients and easy steps. I shared tips for the best texture and golden finish. You learned about variations to enhance flavor and healthy swaps. Remember to store leftovers properly for future treats. Enjoy your baking and make these scones your own. Experiment with flavors and share them with friends. Each bite will bring joy and warmth. Get ready to impress everyone with your delicious scones!

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Are you ready to indulge in a warm, fragrant treat? My Cranberry Orange Scones are the perfect way to brighten your day. With a burst of tart cranberries and the sunny flavor of orange, these scones are easy to make and delicious to enjoy. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, I’ll guide you step-by-step to create this delightful snack. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Perfect Balance of Flavors: The tartness of cranberries paired with the citrusy zing of orange creates a delightful flavor explosion in every bite.
  2. Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a last-minute brunch or a cozy afternoon treat.
  3. Versatile Enjoyment: These scones can be enjoyed warm right out of the oven or served with a simple glaze, making them a versatile addition to any table.
  4. Great for Sharing: With eight servings, these scones are perfect for sharing with family and friends, ensuring everyone gets a taste of this seasonal delight.

Ingredients

List of Required Ingredients

To make cranberry orange scones, gather these items:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredient Substitutions for Cranberry Orange Scones

Not all homes have every ingredient. You can swap some of these:

  • Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a heartier scone.
  • Coconut sugar or brown sugar can replace granulated sugar for a deeper flavor.
  • If you don’t have heavy cream, use milk or a non-dairy milk. Just keep the dough a bit thicker.
  • You can substitute the egg with a flax egg if you’re vegan. Just mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water.

Tips for Choosing Quality Ingredients

Choosing the best ingredients makes a big difference. Here are my tips:

  • Look for flour that is fresh and finely ground. Check the date on the bag.
  • Choose unsalted butter to control the saltiness in your scones. Cold butter helps create a flaky texture.
  • When selecting cranberries, look for ones that are plump and not hard. This means they are fresher.
  • Use a bright, fragrant orange to get the best zest. The zest adds great flavor.

With these ingredients and tips, your cranberry orange scones will shine!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for even baking. While the oven warms, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will keep the scones from sticking.

Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well is important for the scones’ structure. Make sure there are no clumps.

Incorporating Wet Ingredients and Forming Dough

Next, add 1/2 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix it in until it looks like coarse crumbs. Add in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and the zest of 1 orange. Stir until everything is mixed evenly.

In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until it is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps the scones light.

Shaping and Baking the Scones

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently a few times to bring it together. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the circle into 8 wedges. Place these wedges on your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden. Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these fresh, flavorful treats warm!

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve Optimal Texture in Scones

To make light and fluffy scones, keep your butter cold. Cold butter makes little pockets in the dough. These pockets help the scones rise. You should also mix the dough gently. Overmixing can lead to tough scones. When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, only mix until just combined. This ensures a tender texture.

Baking Tips for Perfectly Golden Scones

For golden scones, keep an eye on your oven. Preheat it to 400°F (200°C) before baking. Use parchment paper on your baking sheet to avoid sticking. Place the scones a bit apart for even baking. Bake for 15-20 minutes until they are lightly golden on top. If you want a shinier finish, brush the tops with cream before baking.

Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Orange Scones

Serve your cranberry orange scones warm for the best flavor. A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice adds sweetness. Drizzle it over the scones for a lovely finish. For extra flair, garnish with orange zest. Pair the scones with tea or coffee for a delightful treat any time of day.

Pro Tips

  1. Keep Butter Cold: Ensure your butter is very cold before mixing it into the flour. This helps create a flaky texture in the scones.
  2. Don’t Overmix: Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just moistened. Overmixing can lead to dense scones.
  3. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh orange zest and high-quality dried cranberries.
  4. Glaze for Extra Flavor: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the scones for added sweetness and a beautiful finish.

Variations

Healthier Alternatives to Traditional Ingredients

You can swap some ingredients for healthier options. Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This adds fiber and nutrients. You might also try honey or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar. It gives a unique flavor while cutting refined sugar. For a lower-fat option, replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt. It keeps your scones moist but reduces calories.

Flavor Variations to Experiment With

Want to mix things up? Try adding different fruits. Blueberries or raspberries work great in this recipe. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. If you love nuts, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts for a nice crunch. This gives your scones a whole new flavor profile.

Seasonal Additions for Enhanced Flavor

Seasonal ingredients can elevate your scones. In spring, add lemon zest or fresh herbs like rosemary. They bring a fresh taste. In fall, consider pumpkin puree or spices like ginger for a cozy touch. During winter, dried fruits like apricots or figs can add sweetness. Feel free to adjust based on what’s in season for a unique twist each time!

Storage Info

Storing Leftover Scones

To keep your leftover scones fresh, place them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. You can store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, storing in the fridge is a good option. Just make sure they are well sealed to avoid moisture.

Reheating Guidelines for Best Results

When you’re ready to enjoy your scones again, reheating them is simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5 to 10 minutes. This warms them up and brings back their nice, fluffy texture. You can also microwave them for 15 to 20 seconds, but they may not be as crisp.

Freezing Scones for Long-term Storage

If you want to save scones for later, freezing works great. First, let the scones cool completely. Then, wrap each scone in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When you want to eat them, just thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature. Heat them up as mentioned above for the best taste.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh cranberries. They give a tart flavor. Fresh berries may add moisture. You might need to reduce the heavy cream slightly. Make sure to chop them into smaller pieces to mix well into the dough.

How can I make these scones gluten-free?

To make these scones gluten-free, swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Check that it has xanthan gum in the mix. If not, add 1 teaspoon to your dry ingredients. This helps bind the dough and gives it good texture.

What is the best way to serve cranberry orange scones?

Serve the scones warm for the best taste. A drizzle of a simple glaze enhances their flavor. Mix powdered sugar with orange juice for a sweet topping. Garnish with extra orange zest for a pop of color and aroma.

Can I add nuts or chocolate to the scones?

Absolutely! Adding nuts or chocolate can enhance the flavor. Try chopped walnuts or pecans for a nice crunch. You can also mix in chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Just fold them into the dough along with the cranberries.

These cranberry orange scones require simple ingredients and easy steps. I shared tips for the best texture and golden finish. You learned about variations to enhance flavor and healthy swaps. Remember to store leftovers properly for future treats. Enjoy your baking and make these scones your own. Experiment with flavors and share them with friends. Each bite will bring joy and warmth. Get ready to impress everyone with your delicious scone

To make cranberry orange scones, gather these items: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1/3 cup granulated sugar - 1 tablespoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed - 1/2 cup dried cranberries - Zest of 1 orange - 1/2 cup heavy cream - 1 large egg - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Not all homes have every ingredient. You can swap some of these: - Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a heartier scone. - Coconut sugar or brown sugar can replace granulated sugar for a deeper flavor. - If you don’t have heavy cream, use milk or a non-dairy milk. Just keep the dough a bit thicker. - You can substitute the egg with a flax egg if you're vegan. Just mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Choosing the best ingredients makes a big difference. Here are my tips: - Look for flour that is fresh and finely ground. Check the date on the bag. - Choose unsalted butter to control the saltiness in your scones. Cold butter helps create a flaky texture. - When selecting cranberries, look for ones that are plump and not hard. This means they are fresher. - Use a bright, fragrant orange to get the best zest. The zest adds great flavor. With these ingredients and tips, your cranberry orange scones will shine! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for even baking. While the oven warms, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will keep the scones from sticking. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well is important for the scones’ structure. Make sure there are no clumps. Next, add 1/2 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix it in until it looks like coarse crumbs. Add in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and the zest of 1 orange. Stir until everything is mixed evenly. In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until it is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps the scones light. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently a few times to bring it together. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the circle into 8 wedges. Place these wedges on your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden. Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these fresh, flavorful treats warm! To make light and fluffy scones, keep your butter cold. Cold butter makes little pockets in the dough. These pockets help the scones rise. You should also mix the dough gently. Overmixing can lead to tough scones. When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, only mix until just combined. This ensures a tender texture. For golden scones, keep an eye on your oven. Preheat it to 400°F (200°C) before baking. Use parchment paper on your baking sheet to avoid sticking. Place the scones a bit apart for even baking. Bake for 15-20 minutes until they are lightly golden on top. If you want a shinier finish, brush the tops with cream before baking. Serve your cranberry orange scones warm for the best flavor. A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice adds sweetness. Drizzle it over the scones for a lovely finish. For extra flair, garnish with orange zest. Pair the scones with tea or coffee for a delightful treat any time of day. Pro Tips Keep Butter Cold: Ensure your butter is very cold before mixing it into the flour. This helps create a flaky texture in the scones. Don’t Overmix: Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just moistened. Overmixing can lead to dense scones. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh orange zest and high-quality dried cranberries. Glaze for Extra Flavor: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the scones for added sweetness and a beautiful finish. {{image_2}} You can swap some ingredients for healthier options. Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This adds fiber and nutrients. You might also try honey or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar. It gives a unique flavor while cutting refined sugar. For a lower-fat option, replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt. It keeps your scones moist but reduces calories. Want to mix things up? Try adding different fruits. Blueberries or raspberries work great in this recipe. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. If you love nuts, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts for a nice crunch. This gives your scones a whole new flavor profile. Seasonal ingredients can elevate your scones. In spring, add lemon zest or fresh herbs like rosemary. They bring a fresh taste. In fall, consider pumpkin puree or spices like ginger for a cozy touch. During winter, dried fruits like apricots or figs can add sweetness. Feel free to adjust based on what’s in season for a unique twist each time! To keep your leftover scones fresh, place them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. You can store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, storing in the fridge is a good option. Just make sure they are well sealed to avoid moisture. When you’re ready to enjoy your scones again, reheating them is simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5 to 10 minutes. This warms them up and brings back their nice, fluffy texture. You can also microwave them for 15 to 20 seconds, but they may not be as crisp. If you want to save scones for later, freezing works great. First, let the scones cool completely. Then, wrap each scone in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When you want to eat them, just thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature. Heat them up as mentioned above for the best taste. Yes, you can use fresh cranberries. They give a tart flavor. Fresh berries may add moisture. You might need to reduce the heavy cream slightly. Make sure to chop them into smaller pieces to mix well into the dough. To make these scones gluten-free, swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Check that it has xanthan gum in the mix. If not, add 1 teaspoon to your dry ingredients. This helps bind the dough and gives it good texture. Serve the scones warm for the best taste. A drizzle of a simple glaze enhances their flavor. Mix powdered sugar with orange juice for a sweet topping. Garnish with extra orange zest for a pop of color and aroma. Absolutely! Adding nuts or chocolate can enhance the flavor. Try chopped walnuts or pecans for a nice crunch. You can also mix in chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Just fold them into the dough along with the cranberries. These cranberry orange scones require simple ingredients and easy steps. I shared tips for the best texture and golden finish. You learned about variations to enhance flavor and healthy swaps. Remember to store leftovers properly for future treats. Enjoy your baking and make these scones your own. Experiment with flavors and share them with friends. Each bite will bring joy and warmth. Get ready to impress everyone with your delicious scones!

Cranberry Orange Scones

Delicious scones with a hint of orange and tart cranberries.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1.33 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 0.5 cups dried cranberries
  • 1 zest orange
  • 0.5 cups heavy cream
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
  • Add the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Stir in the dried cranberries and orange zest until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract.
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, and gently stir to combine until just moist. Be careful not to overmix.
  • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick.
  • Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the circle into 8 wedges. Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a bit apart.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are lightly golden on top.
  • Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Serve warm, drizzled with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice, and garnish with extra orange zest on top for color.
Keyword baking, cranberry, orange, scones

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