Name: Delightful Orange Cranberry Scones
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: All-Purpose Flour; Baking Powder; Granulated Sugar; Salt; Cold Unsalted Butter; Fresh Orange Zest; Dried Cranberries; Heavy Cream; Eggs

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

The aroma of freshly baked orange cranberry scones wafts through the air like a warm hug from your favorite aunt. Picture biting into a tender, flaky treat that bursts with vibrant citrus and sweet-tart cranberries—it’s enough to make anyone’s morning brighter. Whether you’re serving them at brunch or enjoying one solo while sipping coffee on the couch, these delightful pastries will transport you straight to a cozy café.

I still remember the first time I made these scones. It was a chilly morning, and I wanted to impress my friends during our brunch get-together. Little did I know that these beauties would steal the show (and my friends’ hearts). With their golden tops and fluffy interiors, they were a hit! Now they grace our table every holiday season, filling our home with warmth and laughter.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These orange cranberry scones are incredibly easy to make and require minimal ingredients
The zesty flavor profile pairs perfectly with tea or coffee
Their bright color adds visual appeal to any breakfast spread
Plus, they’re versatile enough for any occasion—breakfast, brunch, or even dessert!

I once brought these scones to a family gathering and received an enthusiastic round of applause from my relatives.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: Essential for building the base; choose unbleached flour for better flavor.
Baking Powder: This is your secret ingredient for achieving that perfect rise in your scone.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors in these delightful treats.
Cold Unsalted Butter: Cut into cubes; making sure it’s cold helps create that flaky texture we all love.
Fresh Orange Zest: Don’t skip this step; it brings brightness and depth to each bite.
Dried Cranberries: Use high-quality ones for the best flavor; they should be plump and juicy.
Heavy Cream: This adds moisture; you can also substitute with buttermilk if desired.
Eggs: Just one egg enhances richness; don’t forget to beat it lightly before adding!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure those scones bake perfectly golden brown.

Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until combined. This step sets the foundation for your delicious treats.

Add Cold Butter Cubes: Toss in the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until you get a crumbly consistency resembling sand.

Add Flavorful Ingredients: Stir in the orange zest and dried cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the mixture—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Combine Wet Ingredients Separately: In another bowl, combine heavy cream and beaten egg until well mixed. Then gently fold this mixture into your dry ingredients just until combined—don’t overwork it!

Shape Your Scones & Bake Them!: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and pat it into an 8-inch circle. Cut into wedges and place them on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

These orange cranberry scones are not just treats—they’re small bites of joy that can elevate your mornings or special gatherings. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them for later indulgence. Either way, they’ll leave you—and anyone lucky enough to share them—smiling from ear to ear!

You Must Know

Orange cranberry scones are delightful for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack
Their zesty flavor will brighten your day, while the tender, crumbly texture melts in your mouth
Pair them with butter or cream cheese for an extra treat

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by preheating your oven and preparing the baking sheet. Then, mix dry ingredients and cut in butter before adding cranberries and orange zest. Finally, shape the dough and bake until golden brown.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cranberries for blueberries or add chocolate chips instead. A sprinkle of cinnamon can also enhance the flavor, making your scones uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

To keep scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For reheating, pop them in a toaster oven until warm and crispy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When making orange cranberry scones, ensure your butter is cold to achieve a flaky texture
Avoid over-mixing the dough; a gentle hand keeps them light and airy
If they seem dry, a splash of cream can work wonders, making them moist and delicious

I remember the first time I made these orange cranberry scones for a brunch gathering. Everyone raved about them! It felt great seeing friends enjoy something I created with love (and just a hint of flour on my face).

FAQs

FAQ

How do I know when my orange cranberry scones are done?

The scones are ready when they turn golden brown on top and feel firm to the touch.

Can I freeze orange cranberry scones?

Absolutely! Freeze unbaked dough or baked scones for up to three months for later enjoyment.

What can I use instead of fresh cranberries?

Dried cranberries work well too; just soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before using.