Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Butter
Highlighted under: Sweet Treats
Delight in the sweet and tangy flavors of these Cranberry Orange Scones, perfectly complemented by a rich Orange Butter.
These Cranberry Orange Scones are a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holidays. The tartness of cranberries combined with the zest of fresh oranges creates a flavor explosion that is hard to resist. Paired with a creamy orange butter, these scones are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet indulgence any time of the day.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Bursting with fresh cranberry and orange flavors
- Flaky and tender texture that's simply irresistible
- Perfect for breakfast or as a delightful afternoon snack
The Perfect Combination of Flavors
Cranberry Orange Scones are the epitome of a delightful balance between sweet and tart. The fresh cranberries provide a burst of tanginess, while the zesty orange adds a refreshing citrus note that elevates the overall flavor profile. Together, they create a harmonious blend that is both invigorating and satisfying, making each bite a celebration of seasonal ingredients.
These scones are not just a treat for your taste buds; they also offer a feast for the senses. The bright colors of the cranberries and orange zest create an inviting visual appeal, making them perfect for special occasions or simply a cozy breakfast at home. Pair them with your favorite beverage, and you have a delightful start to your day.
A Versatile Delight
One of the best aspects of these Cranberry Orange Scones is their versatility. They work beautifully for breakfast, brunch, or as a mid-afternoon snack. The addition of the rich Orange Butter enhances their flavor, making them even more indulgent and perfect for entertaining guests or treating yourself during a quiet moment.
Whether you're hosting a holiday brunch or enjoying a quiet Sunday morning, these scones fit seamlessly into any occasion. Their delightful texture and flavor make them a crowd-pleaser, and you can easily customize them with different additions, such as nuts or chocolate chips, to create your own unique version.
Tips for Perfect Scones
Achieving the perfect scone requires a few key techniques. First, ensure your butter is cold; this is crucial for creating that flaky texture. You can even freeze the butter for a few minutes before cutting it into the flour. Additionally, avoid overworking the dough—mix until just combined to keep the scones light and tender.
Another tip is to use fresh cranberries if possible, as they provide a vibrant flavor that dried cranberries simply can't match. If using frozen cranberries, don't thaw them before adding them to the dough; this will help maintain the scones' structure and prevent excess moisture.
Ingredients
For the Scones
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Orange Butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start!
Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Cranberries and Orange Zest
Gently fold in the chopped cranberries and orange zest.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Shape the Scones
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into 12 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the Scones
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Make the Orange Butter
While the scones are baking, prepare the orange butter by mixing the softened butter, orange zest, powdered sugar, and orange juice until smooth.
Serve
Let the scones cool slightly, then serve warm with the orange butter.
Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Orange Scones!
Storing and Freezing Scones
If you have leftover scones, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They are best enjoyed fresh but can still be quite delicious the next day. To reheat, simply pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes until they’re warmed through.
For longer storage, these scones freeze beautifully. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature and warm them slightly before serving.
Pairing Suggestions
Cranberry Orange Scones pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. For a classic breakfast experience, serve them with a hot cup of tea or coffee. The warmth of the drink complements the scones' flavor perfectly, making it a cozy combination.
For a more festive touch, consider pairing these scones with a glass of sparkling cider or a mimosa. The effervescence of the drinks enhances the scones' bright flavors and makes for a delightful brunch experience that your guests will love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dough.
→ How should I store the scones?
Store the scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
→ What's the best way to reheat the scones?
To reheat, place the scones in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Butter
Delight in the sweet and tangy flavors of these Cranberry Orange Scones, perfectly complemented by a rich Orange Butter.
Created by: Lara
Recipe Type: Sweet Treats
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 scones
What You'll Need
For the Scones
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Orange Butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gently fold in the chopped cranberries and orange zest.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into 12 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
While the scones are baking, prepare the orange butter by mixing the softened butter, orange zest, powdered sugar, and orange juice until smooth.
Let the scones cool slightly, then serve warm with the orange butter.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 3g