Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe

If you’re searching for a delightfully zesty treat that beautifully balances sweet and tart flavors, this Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe is exactly what you need. These scones are tender, soft in the center with delightfully crisp edges, and bursting with fresh orange zest and vibrant cranberries. The secret lies in using ice-cold butter to achieve that perfect flaky texture and incorporating fresh orange juice both in the dough and the luscious glaze. The addition of honey adds just the right depth of sweetness, making these scones truly unforgettable and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Although this Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe calls for simple ingredients, each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color. From the tang of cranberries to the brightness of orange zest, these staples come together to make an extraordinary baked good.

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour: The backbone of the scones, providing structure and tenderness when combined properly.
• 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps tenderize the crumb.
• 1 tablespoon honey (room temperature): A special twist that deepens sweetness and softens the texture without overwhelming the orange notes.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Gives the scones a lovely rise and a fluffy interior.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic orange juice for a light, airy result.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon finely grated orange zest: Packs a punch of fresh citrus flavor that brightens every bite.
• 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, frozen and grated: The key to flaky layers and a tender crumb, keeping it very cold is crucial.
• 3/4 cup (180 ml) heavy cream, plus 2 tablespoons for brushing: Adds richness and moisture, making the scones luxuriously soft inside.
• 1 large egg, cold: Binds the dough and adds structure for the perfect texture.
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice: Infuses the dough with fresh citrus tang and works with the baking soda for lift.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, complementary sweetness that enhances the orange and cranberry.
• 1 cup (120 g) fresh or frozen cranberries: Provides tart bursts of flavor; frozen can be used straight from the freezer for convenience.
• Coarse sugar for sprinkling: Adds a delightful crunch and sparkle on top.

For the glaze (optional but recommended):

• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the glaze perfectly.
• 2–3 tablespoons fresh orange juice: Gives the glaze a refreshing citrus punch matching the scones.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the glaze flavor for a delicate, aromatic finish.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your scones bake evenly and won’t stick, making cleanup easy.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, honey, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the finely grated orange zest until everything is well combined. The orange zest here is a star player, distributing essential citrus flavor evenly throughout the dough.

Step 3: Add the Butter

Next, grate the frozen butter directly into the dry ingredients using a box grater or cut it into very cold cubes. Use a pastry cutter or two forks to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This cold butter is the secret to flaky scones, so keep it chilled!

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, cold egg, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture brings richness, moisture, and that lovely citrus zing to the dough.

Step 5: Bring the Dough Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix, then gently fold in the cranberries with a spatula or your hands until the dough just comes together. Be gentle – overmixing can lead to tough scones, and we want them tender and fluffy.

Step 6: Shape, Chill, and Cut

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into an 8-inch diameter disk about 1 inch thick. If the dough feels sticky or soft, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes to chill. Then cut the disk into 8 equal wedges and place them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 7: Final Touches Before Baking

Brush each scone top with heavy cream and sprinkle with coarse sugar for that lovely crisp texture and sparkle once baked. Chill the shaped scones in the freezer for 15 minutes; this step helps them hold their shape and get that perfect rise in the oven.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the scones for 18–22 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the tops feel lightly firm when touched. After baking, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 9: Optional Glazing

If you’re feeling fancy, whisk powdered sugar, more fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract together to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle this over the completely cooled scones for an irresistible citrusy finish that ties the whole Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe together beautifully.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling coarse sugar before baking gives a subtle crunch and delicate sparkle on top. For an extra festive touch, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or adding some thin orange zest curls on your plate to highlight the flavors.

Side Dishes

Serve these scones alongside a pot of hot tea, a cup of freshly brewed coffee, or even a creamy latte. They pair wonderfully with a smear of butter, clotted cream, or a dollop of orange marmalade for added indulgence at breakfast or brunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming brunch presentation, arrange the scones on a rustic wooden board with fresh cranberries and orange slices artfully scattered around. Serve with small bowls of honey, cream, and preserves, inviting everyone to customize their perfect bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and tender without drying out the crumb or flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked scone wedges on a parchment-lined tray for up to 2 months; then bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 2 to 3 minutes to the baking time. Alternatively, freeze fully baked scones in a sealed bag for up to 3 months and thaw before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat scones gently in a 300°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes to bring back that crisp exterior and warm, soft interior. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but may soften the edges, so the oven is preferable.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?

Absolutely! Dried cranberries work well if rehydrated in warm water for about 10 minutes and drained. They add a sweeter, chewier texture compared to fresh or frozen cranberries.

Why is cold butter important in this Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe?

Cold butter creates small pockets of steam during baking, which yields flaky layers and a tender crumb. Warm butter will melt into the flour, making the scones denser and less flaky.

Can I make these scones vegan or dairy-free?

While this recipe relies on dairy for texture and richness, you can try substituting with plant-based butter, non-dairy milk mixed with a hint of vinegar or lemon juice, and a flax egg. Results may vary but experimentation can be delicious!

Is the glaze necessary?

The glaze adds a beautiful citrusy sweetness that complements the scones perfectly, but it’s optional. Without it, the scones are still fantastic, just a little less glossy and sweet on top.

How can I make these scones more citrusy?

For an extra burst of citrus flavor, try adding more orange zest to the dough and even a bit more orange juice to the glaze. Adding a teaspoon of lemon zest can also brighten the profile wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe enough if you’re looking for a baked treat that feels both cozy and fresh. The perfect balance of tart cranberries and bright, sunny orange zest paired with a tender crumb will quickly make these scones a beloved staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, keep that butter cold, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch of these irresistible scones soon!