Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe

If you have a soft spot for bright, zesty flavors paired with a tender, flaky pastry, then this Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe is going to become one of your absolute favorites. Bursting with the tartness of fresh cranberries and the sunny aroma of orange zest, these scones are a delightful way to brighten up your mornings or impress guests at brunch. Balanced perfectly with a sweet orange glaze, they bring just the right amount of indulgence while still feeling fresh and light. Let me walk you through how to make these irresistible treats from scratch, so you can enjoy bakery-quality scones right at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but so essential that each one plays a key role in the taste, texture, and color of your scones. From the cold butter that creates that luscious flakiness to the fresh orange zest that adds a pop of brightness, every component matters.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives your scones structure.
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness without overpowering.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: The magic ingredient that helps your scones rise beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors to give balance.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed): The key to flaky, tender layers in each scone.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (plus more for brushing): Keeps the dough moist and rich, while brushing adds a golden finish.
• 1 large egg: Binds the dough and gives structure to your scones.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest: Packs in the fresh, citrusy aroma and flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complexity.
• 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries: The star players adding tart bursts in every bite.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: For the sweet, shiny glaze that ties it all together.
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice: Adds zing and freshness to the glaze.
• 1 teaspoon orange zest: Gives extra citrus notes to the glaze.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. A hot oven is crucial here to achieve that perfect rise and golden crust. Lining your tray ensures the scones don’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures your leavening agents and seasonings are evenly distributed, which is key for consistent scones.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Next, cut the cold, cubed butter into the dry mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers. Work quickly until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. Those small pockets of butter will create flaky layers once baked, so don’t overdo it!

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a smaller bowl, whisk the heavy cream, egg, orange zest, and vanilla extract together until combined. The orange zest will infuse the dough with bright citrus flavor while vanilla adds a gentle warmth.

Step 5: Bring the Dough Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix and stir just until everything comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the scones tough instead of tender and flaky. Gently fold in the cranberries to evenly distribute their tart bursts.

Step 6: Shape and Cut the Scones

Lightly flour your workspace and turn the dough out onto it. Pat or gently roll the dough into a disc about one inch thick. Cut the disc into 8 wedges and place them on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them out so they bake evenly without sticking.

Step 7: Brush with Cream

Brush the scones’ tops lightly with heavy cream. This little step gives the scones a gorgeous golden-brown color and a subtle sheen once baked.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake the scones for 15 to 18 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown and feel firm to the touch. Let them cool on a wire rack so they don’t become soggy on the bottom and are perfectly tender all around.

Step 9: Glaze the Scones

While the scones cool, whisk powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest into a smooth glaze. When drizzled over warm, the glaze sets beautifully with a zesty sweetness that complements the cranberries.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Now comes the best part: eating! These scones are fantastic fresh from the oven alongside your favorite cup of tea or coffee. They’re an easy way to make breakfast, brunch, or afternoon snack feel special.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe

Garnishes

For a lovely finishing touch, sprinkle a little extra orange zest or finely chopped candied orange peel right over the glaze. You can also add a few whole cranberries on top for a pretty pop of color. These simple garnishes elevate presentation with very little effort.

Side Dishes

Cranberry Orange Scones pair wonderfully with light accompaniments like clotted cream, honey butter, or fresh fruit preserves. If serving at brunch, balance the sweetness with a crisp green salad or a platter of fresh berries to add freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking scones on a tiered cake stand for a charming display at gatherings. You could also transform them into scone sandwiches by slicing them in half and filling with cream cheese and orange marmalade for an elegant twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover scones (if that’s even possible!), wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for 2 to 3 days at room temperature, perfect for quick breakfasts on busy mornings.

Freezing

Cranberry Orange Scones freeze beautifully. Place cooled scones in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating

For best flavor and texture, reheat your scones in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 to 8 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp on the edges. Avoid microwaving to keep that delightful flakiness intact.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Both fresh and dried cranberries work well. Just keep in mind that dried cranberries are sweeter and chewier, while fresh ones provide a juicier, more tart burst. You might want to reduce the sugar slightly if using dried cranberries.

Can I substitute orange zest with lemon zest?

You can, though the flavor will shift slightly. Lemon zest gives a brighter, more tart citrus note, while orange zest adds warmth and sweetness that pairs beautifully with cranberries. Feel free to experiment based on what you like!

What’s the best way to cut the butter into the flour?

Using a pastry cutter or two forks works well for beginners, but your fingertips are great too—just work quickly to avoid warming the butter. The goal is to have pea-sized bits of butter evenly dispersed for flakiness.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

With a few swaps, yes! Use plant-based butter and dairy-free cream (like coconut cream), and substitute the egg with a flax or chia egg. The texture may vary slightly but you’ll still get delicious scones.

How do I know when scones are done baking?

They should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch but still tender inside. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Avoid over-baking so they stay soft and flaky.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe. Each bite offers a perfect harmony of citrus brightness and tart cranberry sweetness wrapped up in a tender, flaky pastry. I hope it becomes as much of a staple in your kitchen as it is in mine—there’s something truly comforting about sharing freshly baked scones with people you love. So grab your ingredients and have fun baking these joyful treats!

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