Cranberry and Orange Scones Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of cranberries and oranges that brings a delightful burst of flavor to any baked good. This Cranberry and Orange Scones Recipe is a testament to that, offering a harmonious blend of tart and sweet that is both refreshing and comforting. The first time I made these scones, I was skeptical about how the tangy cranberries would pair with the citrusy sweetness of oranges. However, the moment I took my first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon a winner. The scones were perfectly moist, with a light, fluffy texture that just melted in our mouths. My family, who are usually not big fans of scones, couldn’t get enough of them, and they have since become a weekend staple in our household.

Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, yet the results are nothing short of spectacular. For these delightful scones, you will need 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
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon milk (for brushing)
• Extra sugar for sprinkling

Instructions

Creating these scones is as enjoyable as eating them. Here’s how you can bring these delightful treats to life:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gently fold in the chopped cranberries and orange zest, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
6. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.
7. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and gently pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick.
8. Using a sharp knife, cut the circle into 8 equal wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Brush the tops of the scones with milk and sprinkle with extra sugar for a sweet, crunchy finish.
10. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Allow the scones to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your food can help in making informed dietary choices. This recipe makes approximately 8 servings, with each serving containing about 250 calories. These scones are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time

One of the many joys of this recipe is its efficiency. From start to finish, these Cranberry and Orange Scones take about 30 minutes to prepare. This includes 10 minutes of active preparation time and 15-18 minutes of baking time, making them a perfect choice for a quick, yet satisfying breakfast or snack.

How to Serve

These scones are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to suit your preferences:

• Warm with Butter: Serve the scones warm with a pat of butter that melts into the flaky layers.
• With Clotted Cream: For a traditional touch, serve with clotted cream and a dollop of orange marmalade.
• Accompanied by Tea: Pair with a steaming cup of tea or coffee for a classic combination.
• As a Dessert: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice for a sweet finish.
• On the Go: Enjoy as a convenient breakfast or snack when you’re short on time.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Cranberry and Orange Scones turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

1. Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, cream, and egg are cold. This helps create flaky layers in the scones.
2. Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix the dough just until it comes together. Overworking can result in tough scones.
3. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer sweeter scones, add a tablespoon of sugar to the dough or drizzle with glaze.
4. Experiment with Add-ins: Try adding chopped nuts or a handful of chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
5. Freeze for Later: Unbaked scones can be frozen and baked straight from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can substitute dried cranberries. However, soak them in hot water for a few minutes to rehydrate before using.

Q: What if I don’t have heavy cream?
A: You can substitute with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter, though the scones might be slightly less rich.

Q: How do I prevent the scones from spreading too much?
A: Ensure your butter and other ingredients are cold. If the dough feels warm, refrigerate it for 10 minutes before baking.

Q: Can I make these scones gluten-free?
A: Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The texture might be slightly different, but they will still be delicious.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftover scones?
A: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze for longer storage.