Name: Cranberry Orange Scones
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed; 1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen, unthawed); Zest of 1 orange; 1/2 cup heavy cream

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Sinking your teeth into a warm, flaky Cranberry Orange Scone is like getting a hug from your favorite person on a chilly morning. The sweet-tart burst of cranberries dances with the zesty brightness of orange, creating a delightful symphony that leaves your taste buds singing! These scones are perfect for brunch or a cozy afternoon tea, and they smell so good baking in the oven that you might just forget all your worries—or at least the ones that don’t involve carbs.

I still remember the first time I made Cranberry Orange Scones. It was one of those rare occasions when I thought I could impress my friends with my baking skills. Spoiler alert: it worked! As soon as they took a bite, their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning. Now, every time I whip up this recipe, it’s like reuniting with an old friend who always brings joy and comfort. So grab your apron, and let’s get started on this flavor-packed adventure!

Why You'll Love This Cranberry Orange Scones

This amazing Cranberry Orange Scones offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Scones

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cranberry Orange Scones:

All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of the scone, providing structure and tenderness. Make sure to sift it for a lighter texture.
Granulated Sugar: A little sweetness helps balance the tartness of the cranberries. Adjust according to your preference!
Baking Powder: Essential for that perfect rise—nobody likes flat scones! Ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances flavors and brings everything together.
Cold Butter: Cut into small pieces, cold butter creates those delightful flaky layers we all love in scones.
Fresh Cranberries: If you can find them, they add an amazing burst of tartness! Frozen works too—just don’t thaw them.
Zest of One Orange: This is where the magic happens! It infuses the scones with bright citrus notes that brighten up every bite.
Heavy Cream: This rich ingredient provides moisture and helps bind everything together.

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 Cranberry Orange Scones:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. We want these scones to be as easy to remove as that last piece of cake at a birthday party!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. You want these dry ingredients mixed evenly—no one wants an unexpected salty bite!

Step 3: Cut in Cold Butter

Using a pastry cutter or your fingers (the latter is way more fun), cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Think of it as giving that butter a spa day—it needs to be pampered for ultimate flakiness.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Stir in the cranberries and orange zest until well distributed. Then pour in the heavy cream and mix gently until just combined. It should look like dough but not too sticky; if it’s sticking to everything like sticky notes at work, add more flour.

Step 5: Shape Your Scones

Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently just until it comes together (remember not to overwork it!). Pat it into an approximate circle about one inch thick. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter for those classic shapes!

Step 6: Bake Them Up

Place your scone pieces onto the prepared baking sheet and brush them lightly with cream for extra golden goodness. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until they’re beautifully golden brown and make your kitchen smell heavenly.

Transfer to plates and enjoy with butter or jam for the perfect finishing touch!

And there you have it! Each bite of these delectable Cranberry Orange Scones will transport you to a cozy café where life is sweet—and calories don’t count. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or indulging solo while binge-watching your latest obsession on Netflix (we won’t tell), they’re sure to bring smiles all around!

You Must Know About Cranberry Orange Scones

This amazing Cranberry Orange Scones offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting Cooking Process

First, preheat your oven while mixing your dry ingredients. Then, incorporate the butter until crumbly, add cranberries and orange zest, and finally mix in the wet ingredients for an even consistency. Bake until golden brown for perfect results every time.

Add Your Touch

Consider swapping cranberries for blueberries or adding white chocolate chips for a sweeter twist. You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile of your Cranberry Orange Scones.

Storing & Reheating

To store your scones, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For reheating, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about five minutes for that fresh-baked taste.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Cranberry Orange Scones

Use cold butter to achieve that flaky texture everyone desires.
Don’t overmix the dough; it should be slightly sticky.
Finally, let your scones cool completely before storing them to prevent sogginess.

Sometimes I whip up these Cranberry Orange Scones when friends come over for brunch—everyone raves about them! They always ask for the recipe, which makes me feel like a kitchen rock star!

FAQs

What is Cranberry Orange Scones?

Cranberry Orange Scones are delightful baked goods that combine the tartness of cranberries with the zesty flavor of oranges. These scones feature a tender, flaky texture and are perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. The mixture of fresh or dried cranberries and orange zest gives each bite a burst of flavor, making them a favorite among many. Typically enjoyed with tea or coffee, these scones can be served plain or with a drizzle of icing for added sweetness.

How do you make Cranberry Orange Scones?

To make Cranberry Orange Scones, start by mixing flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in cranberries and orange zest, then add cream to form a dough. Shape the dough into rounds and bake until golden brown. Optionally, top with an orange glaze once cooled for extra sweetness. This simple recipe ensures that even novice bakers can create delicious scones at home.

Can I use frozen cranberries in my Cranberry Orange Scones?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries in your Cranberry Orange Scones recipe! However, it’s important to note that frozen berries may release more moisture during baking. To prevent sogginess, consider adding a little extra flour to the dough or decreasing the amount of liquid slightly. Using frozen cranberries is an excellent way to enjoy this tasty treat year-round without sacrificing flavor.

What can I serve with Cranberry Orange Scones?

Cranberry Orange Scones pair wonderfully with various accompaniments. Serve them warm with butter or clotted cream for a classic touch. For added sweetness, drizzle them with an orange glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh orange juice. Additionally, these scones are perfect alongside fruit preserves or a side of whipped cream cheese for a delightful breakfast spread.

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Scones are a delightful combination of tart and sweet flavors that brighten up any meal. With their easy preparation and wonderful taste, they make for an excellent addition to your recipe collection. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or served later in the day, these scones are sure to impress friends and family alike. Give this recipe a try and indulge in the deliciousness of Cranberry Orange Scones today!