Cranberry Orange Scones Fresh and Simple Recipe

If you love a sweet and tangy treat in the morning, you’ll adore these cranberry orange scones! They’re simple to make and packed with flavor. In this post, I’ll share everything you need: ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and handy tips. Plus, I’ll include variations and storage tips to keep your baked goods fresh. Let’s dive in and bake the perfect scones together!

Ingredients

Full List of Ingredients

To make delicious cranberry orange scones, gather these simple 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 dried cranberries

– Zest of 1 orange, finely grated

– 1/2 cup heavy cream

– 1 large egg

– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Substitutions and Variations

You can easily swap some ingredients for a twist on this recipe. Here are my suggestions:

– Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for a nuttier flavor.

– Replace dried cranberries with dried cherries or blueberries for a different fruit.

– Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

– Swap heavy cream with almond milk or oat milk for a lighter scone.

– Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.

Measurement Tips

Accurate measuring leads to better scones. Here are some tips:

– Use a kitchen scale for precise flour measurements. One cup of flour weighs about 120 grams.

– Level off your measuring cups with a straight edge for accuracy.

– When measuring sticky ingredients like sugar, pack it lightly into the cup.

– For zest, use a microplane for fine grating, ensuring you only get the bright orange part.

– Always measure liquids in a clear cup with measurement markings for easy reading.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet

First, I set my oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps the scones rise nicely. While the oven heats, I line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes it easy to move the scones later.

Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a big bowl, I measure 2 cups of all-purpose flour. Next, I add 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. I whisk these together until they are well mixed. This step is key for even flavor in every bite.

Incorporating Butter and Add-ins

Now, I take 1/2 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter. I add it to the dry mix. Using my fingertips, I work the butter into the flour until it looks like coarse crumbs. I want to see small pieces of butter, like peas. Then, I toss in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and the zest of 1 orange. This adds flavor and color to my scones.

Preparing and Shaping the Dough

In a separate bowl, I whisk together 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Once smooth, I gently pour this into the dry mix. I stir lightly until it is just moistened. I avoid overworking the dough to keep it tender. Next, I place the dough on a floured surface and knead it just a few times. I shape it into a disc that is about 1 inch thick.

Baking and Cooling Instructions

With a sharp knife, I slice the disc into 8 wedges. I carefully place the wedges on my prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each. Then, I bake them for 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown and smell great. After baking, I let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes. Finally, I transfer them to a cooling rack or serve them warm.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Texture

To get soft and flaky scones, handle the dough gently. Mix until just combined. Overworking the dough makes it tough. Aim for a crumbly texture with small butter pieces. This will add layers when baked. A light touch ensures your scones are tender.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One big mistake is using warm butter. Always use cold, cubed butter. It helps create that flaky texture. Another error is overmixing the dough. Remember, mix just until moistened. Lastly, avoid skipping the chilling step if you can. It helps the scones rise better.

Scone Serving Suggestions

These cranberry orange scones shine when warm. Serve them with a pat of butter or a drizzle of glaze. A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice adds a lovely touch. You can also pair them with tea or coffee for a cozy treat. For a festive flair, sprinkle extra orange zest on top!

Variations

Different Flavor Combinations

You can change the flavors in your cranberry orange scones easily. Try adding different fruits like blueberries or raspberries. Chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, give a nice crunch. For a twist, use lemon zest instead of orange. Each fruit brings its own taste, making the scones unique.

Gluten-Free Options

If you want gluten-free scones, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Look for blends that have a mix of rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour. This way, you can enjoy the same great taste without gluten. Make sure to check that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Incorporating Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients can elevate your scones. Fresh cranberries add a tart burst of flavor. You can also mix in fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, for a savory touch. Fresh orange juice can replace some cream for a zestier flavor. Adjust the sugar if you add acidity to keep the balance right.

Storage Info

Short-Term Storage Tips

Store your scones in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to three days. Keep them at room temperature. If you notice them getting dry, wrap them in plastic wrap.

Long-Term Storage Guidelines

For longer storage, freeze the scones. Place them in a freezer bag or container. They last for up to three months. Make sure to label the bag with the date so you know when to use them.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet. Heat for about 5-10 minutes until warm. This will help restore their soft texture. You can also microwave them for about 15-20 seconds, but this may make them a bit chewy. Enjoy your warm scones with a cup of tea!

FAQs

How to make scones from scratch?

To make scones from scratch, follow a few simple steps. First, mix your dry ingredients in a bowl. You will need flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Next, cut in cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Then, add in cranberries and orange zest for flavor. In another bowl, combine cream, egg, and vanilla. Pour this into the dry mix and stir gently. Shape the dough, slice it into wedges, and bake until golden.

Can I freeze cranberry orange scones?

Yes, you can freeze cranberry orange scones. After baking, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Heat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore freshness.

What is the best way to serve scones?

The best way to serve scones is warm. You can enjoy them plain or with toppings. A drizzle of glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice adds a nice touch. Serve with clotted cream or butter for extra richness. Pair with tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

How can I make scones less dry?

To make scones less dry, focus on the mixing. Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Avoid overworking the dough, as this can create tough scones. You can also add more cream or butter for moisture. If your scones still seem dry, try adding a bit of yogurt or sour cream to the mix.

This blog covered key ingredients, tips, and step-by-step methods for perfect scones. We explored substitutions, storage, and even flavor variations. Making scones can be fun and rewarding. Keep these tips in mind to avoid common mistakes. Experiment with flavors to find your favorite. Enjoy every bite of your freshly baked scone