Cranberry Orange Scones are a delicious and fragrant pastry that combines the tartness of cranberries with the bright, citrusy flavor of orange. Perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea, these scones are light, flaky, and bursting with flavor. Serve them warm with butter or clotted cream for a delightful treat!

Ingredients List

For the Scones:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, roughly chopped
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange

Timing

Preparing Cranberry Orange Scones takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20–25 minutes of baking time. Total time is approximately 35–40 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

1. Add Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture.
2. Cut in Butter: Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Add the Cranberries and Orange Zest

1. Stir in Additions: Gently fold in the chopped cranberries and orange zest until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Mix Together: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.

Step 7: Shape the Scones

1. Turn Out the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick.
2. Cut the Scones: Cut the dough into 8 wedges (like a pizza) or use a round cutter for individual scones. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 8: Bake the Scones

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

1. Make the Glaze: While the scones are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest in a small bowl until smooth.
2. Glaze the Scones: Once the scones are cool, drizzle the glaze over the top.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Cranberry Orange Scones (per serving, makes about 8 scones):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	210
Protein	3g
Fat	9g
Carbohydrates	31g
Fiber	1g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
• Reduce the sugar in the scone batter or glaze.
• Substitute Greek yogurt for buttermilk for extra protein.

Serving Suggestions

• A cup of tea or coffee for a cozy breakfast.
• Fresh fruit or a fruit salad for a refreshing side.
• Clotted cream or butter for spreading.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep the scones tender and flaky.
2. Using Warm Butter: Ensure the butter is cold for the best texture.
3. Not Preheating the Oven: Make sure the oven is fully preheated for even baking.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Cranberry Orange Scones can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

In just about 40 minutes, you can create delicious Cranberry Orange Scones that are perfect for any occasion. Their bright flavors and tender texture make them a delightful addition to your breakfast or brunch table!

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes! Dried cranberries can be used, but you may want to reduce the sugar slightly since they are sweeter.

Can I add nuts to the scones?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts would make a great addition.

Are these scones suitable for freezing?

Yes, baked scones can be frozen and reheated in the oven or microwave.