The Best Cranberry Orange Scone Recipe for a Zesty Flavor

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of cranberries with the refreshing zest of oranges, you’re in for a treat with this cranberry orange scone recipe. These scones are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the perfect cranberry orange scones, gather the following ingredients:

  • 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 cup fresh or dried cranberries
  • Zest of 1 large orange
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your scrumptious cranberry orange scones:

1. Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This will be the base of your scones.

3. Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Add Cranberries and Zest

Fold in the cranberries and orange zest, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

5. Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Then, pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

6. Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Using your hands, gently press the dough into a disk that is about 1 inch thick. You can cut the dough into triangles or use a round cutter for a more traditional scone shape.

7. Bake the Scones

Place the shaped dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each scone. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top.

8. Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful aroma of cranberry and orange!

Optional Glaze

If you want to add a little extra sweetness to your cranberry orange scones, consider drizzling them with a simple glaze. Mix together 1 cup of powdered sugar with a few tablespoons of freshly squeezed orange juice until you achieve your desired consistency. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled scones for an added zesty touch.

Conclusion

This cranberry orange scone recipe is an easy and delicious way to enjoy a zesty flavor. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, these scones will surely become a favorite in your household. Whether served with a hot cup of tea or coffee, these scones are a delightful addition to any meal.