Cranberry orange scones with clotted cream are absolutely delightful! I love how the tart cranberries mix perfectly with the zesty orange flavor. It’s a simple recipe that includes flour, sugar, baking powder, and some cold butter—nothing fancy but oh-so-good! Just mix your dry ingredients, combine them with wet ones, and bake until golden brown. You can enjoy these scones fresh from the oven, topped with clotted cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. I usually serve mine with a cup of tea, and it’s heavenly! If you stick around, I’ll share tips to make them even better!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
You’re going to love how these cranberry orange scones bring a burst of flavor to your breakfast or brunch table.
The sweet and tart combination creates a delightful flavor balance while offering health benefits like antioxidants and vitamins.
You’ll enjoy:
- A quick prep time
- Yummy citrus aroma
- Bright, vibrant colors
- Delicious, flaky texture
- Perfect for sharing
Trust me, they’re irresistible!
Recipe
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Cranberry Orange Scones, a perfect treat for breakfast or afternoon tea. This easy-to-follow recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the zesty brightness of orange, creating a scone that’s both delicious and aromatic.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: additional sugar for sprinkling on top
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold butter and mix with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the cranberries and orange zest.
- In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour this into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it about 5 times. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick and cut into wedges.
- Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, brush the tops with cream, and sprinkle with additional sugar if desired.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool briefly before serving.
Notes:
For a delicious glaze, mix powdered sugar with a little orange juice and drizzle over the scones once cooled.
Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Serving: 8 scones
- Calories: Approximately 200 calories per scone
- Cuisine: American
Enjoy these warm, buttery Cranberry Orange Scones fresh from the oven for a delightful taste experience!
Equipment
To make the perfect Cranberry Orange Scones, you’ll need some essential kitchen equipment.
Don’t worry, it’s simple! Here’s what you should gather before we get started:
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- A whisk
- A pastry cutter
- A measuring cup
With these tools at your side, you’re all set to create delicious scones that’ll impress your friends and family!
Happy baking!
What to Serve With This Recipe
Now that you’ve baked those delicious cranberry orange scones, let’s chat about what to serve with them!
A hot cup of tea or coffee pairs perfectly, and don’t forget some fun toppings like clotted cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
If you’re feeling festive, adding a side of fresh fruit or yogurt can really brighten up your brunch spread!
Ideal Beverage Pairings
When I think of enjoying cranberry orange scones, a warm cup of tea or coffee comes to mind as the perfect companion.
For tea pairings, I’d suggest a light chamomile or spicy chai. If coffee’s your vibe, a smooth vanilla blend really brings out the flavors.
Either way, sipping alongside those scones creates a cozy and delightful experience. Enjoy every bite and sip!
Festive Serving Suggestions
Bringing cranberry orange scones to the table can elevate any gathering, and I love pairing them with a selection of festive accompaniments.
For a holiday brunch or seasonal gathering, try adding a fruit platter for color and variety. A cozy hot chocolate station can also delight your guests, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that keeps everyone smiling and relaxed.
Enjoy!
Complementary Toppings Options
There’s nothing quite like enjoying warm cranberry orange scones with a variety of complementary toppings that enhance their flavor.
I love trying different topping combinations like sweet honey, tangy cream cheese, or even a dollop of whipped cream.
These flavor profiles really elevate your scones, making each bite a little adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh Ones?
Absolutely, I’ve used frozen cranberries in scones before! They’re convenient, keep well, and can be less tart. Just know the texture changes slightly—frozen ones might make the scone a bit denser, but it’s still delicious!
How Long Do the Scones Stay Fresh?
I’ve found that scones stay fresh for about two days at room temperature. For longer scone storage, I recommend freezing them. Just remember to wrap them tightly to keep those delightful flavors intact. Freshness tips help!
Can I Substitute Clotted Cream With Another Spread?
If you’re seeking scrumptious substitutes, I love using cream alternatives like sweet mascarpone or tangy Greek yogurt. Each provides delightful flavor pairings that elevate your dish and offer freedom from traditional spreads. Enjoy experimenting!
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftover Scones?
When I reheat leftover scones, I preheat the oven to 350°F and warm them for about 10 minutes. This keeps the scone texture nice and fluffy. Trust me, these reheating tips work wonders!
How Can I Make These Scones Vegan-Friendly?
Transforming your scones into a plant-based delight is like painting with nature’s palette. I’d recommend using almond milk instead of cream, replacing butter with coconut oil, and opting for flax eggs as vegan substitutes. Enjoy your freedom!
