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Cranberry Orange Scones

5.0 · 53 reviewsRecipe card by PalatablePastimeEditorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 18, 2026
Quick BreadsBreadsBreakfastLunch/SnacksGrainsFruit
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Total time

25 min

Servings

8

Calories

239.7

Category

Scones

Wake up to the delightful aroma of freshly baked Cranberry Orange Scones, a perfect blend of tart cranberries and zesty citrus. This easy, 25-minute recipe yields tender, golden scones ideal for holiday mornings, cozy breakfasts, or a quick snack. Made with simple ingredients, these Scottish-inspired treats are kid-friendly and perfect for potlucks or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

Makes 8 servings

  • 1 1/2 all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 sugar
  • 3 baking powder
  • 1/4 salt
  • 1/4 butter
  • 1/2 dried cranberries
  • 2 buttermilk
  • 1/2 egg
  • 1 powdered sugar

Method

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

  2. Mix together flour, 1/4 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl; cut in butter with a pastry blender or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  3. Stir in cranberries and orange peel.

  4. In a small bowl, mix buttermilk and egg; add to dry ingredients all at once, stirring until mixture is just moistened.

  5. On a floured board, knead gently a few times, but not too much.

  6. Form into a patty on an ungreased cookie sheet; cut into 8 wedges with a knife but do not move it.

  7. Bake at 400 degrees F.

  8. for 15-25 minutes or until light golden.

  9. Mix together powdered sugar and orange juice into a glaze; drizzle over scones.

  10. Separate scones and serve warm.

Cook's notes

  • For extra tender scones, handle the dough as little as possible; over-kneading can make them tough.
  • Use cold butter straight from the fridge to create flaky layers as it melts in the oven.
  • If you don't have buttermilk, add 1 tablespoon lemon juice to 1/2 cup milk and let sit for 5 minutes.

Frequently asked

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, but reduce the amount to 1/3 cup and toss them in a little flour to prevent sinking. Expect a tarter flavor and slightly more moisture.

What can I substitute for orange juice in the glaze?

Lemon juice or milk work well. For a non-citrus option, use 1 tablespoon water and a drop of vanilla extract.

Can I make these scones gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Add 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum if your blend doesn't include it.

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