Description
Cranberry Orange Scones are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the zesty brightness of orange. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, these scones are flaky and tender, making them a true indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1/4 cup coarse sugar for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in dried cranberries and orange zest.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, and orange juice.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Pat into a 1-inch thick circle.
- Cut into 8 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle coarse sugar on top if desired.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown.
Notes
- Ingredient Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk.
- Use fresh cranberries instead of dried for a tart and juicy flavor, adjusting the sugar to taste.
- Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier twist, but it may alter the texture slightly.
- Zesting the Orange:
- Ensure you only zest the orange peel without the white pith underneath, as it can be bitter.
- Use a microplane or fine grater for the best results.
- Mixing Tips:
- When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense scones.
- If the dough feels too dry, add a splash more cream or milk to reach the desired consistency.
- Baking Variations:
- For a sweeter finish, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the cooled scones.
- Experiment by adding chocolate chips or nuts for additional texture and flavor.
- Storage Instructions:
- Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- To keep them fresh longer, freeze the unbaked scone wedges. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with butter or clotted cream for a delightful breakfast or brunch.
- Pair with tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon snack.
- Presentation Ideas:
- Dust the scones with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
- Arrange them on a decorative platter with fresh orange slices and cranberries for a festive look.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes