Cranberry Orange Scones

Introduction

Cranberry Orange Scones are a delightful baked treat that perfectly balances the tartness of cranberries with the sweet citrusy brightness of orange. The scones are tender, buttery, and slightly crisp on the edges, with a moist crumb that makes them irresistible. Topped with a light orange glaze or enjoyed plain, they are perfect for breakfast, brunch, tea-time, or even as a festive holiday treat.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the best of sweet and tart flavors. The cranberries bring a juicy, tangy burst in every bite, while the orange zest and juice provide a refreshing citrus aroma. The buttery, flaky texture of the scones makes them incredibly comforting. They are quick to make, versatile, and always look impressive on the table — perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy mornings at home.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it’s:

Crowd-pleaser – great for potlucks, brunches, and family breakfasts.

Festive and seasonal – especially great during fall and winter.

Beginner-friendly – no fancy baking skills required.

Customizable – you can swap flavors, add nuts, or glaze differently.

Perfect make-ahead option – they freeze beautifully.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 18–22 minutes
• Total Time: About 35–40 minutes
• Servings: 8 large scones
• Calories (per scone): ~280–300 kcal

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: British-inspired, American twist
• Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Snack, Dessert

Ingredients

For the Scones:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ½ cup fresh or frozen cranberries (roughly chopped if large)
• 2 tsp orange zest (from 1–2 oranges)
• ⅔ cup buttermilk (or substitute with milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
• 1 large egg

For the Glaze (optional):

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tbsp fresh orange juice

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Mix dry ingredients.
2. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add cranberries and orange zest.
4. Stir in wet ingredients to form dough.
5. Shape, cut into wedges, and bake until golden.
6. Drizzle with orange glaze if desired.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Cut cold butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter, fork, or fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in cranberries and orange zest.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

1. In a small bowl, whisk buttermilk and egg together.
2. Pour into dry ingredients and stir just until combined (do not overmix).

Step 4: Shape the Dough

1. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead 2–3 times until it comes together.
2. Pat into a circle about 1-inch thick.
3. Cut into 8 wedges with a sharp knife.

Step 5: Bake

1. Place wedges on prepared baking sheet, slightly apart.
2. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until golden on top.
3. Cool slightly before glazing.

Step 6: Glaze (Optional)

1. Mix powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth.
2. Drizzle over cooled scones.

How to Serve

• Best served warm with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.
• Pair with clotted cream, whipped cream, or butter for extra indulgence.
• Perfect addition to a holiday brunch platter or afternoon tea spread.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Keep butter very cold—this ensures flaky layers.
• Do not overwork the dough or scones will be tough.
• If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw before adding (to prevent bleeding).
• Brush scones with milk or cream before baking for a shinier crust.

Variations

• White Chocolate Cranberry Scones: Add ½ cup white chocolate chips.
• Nutty Twist: Mix in chopped pecans or almonds.
• Glazed Orange Scones: Skip cranberries and add extra orange zest for a citrus-only version.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and flax egg.

Freezing & Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in airtight container up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Lasts 4–5 days. Reheat gently before serving.
• Freezing (Unbaked): Freeze cut wedges on a baking sheet, then store in freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes extra.
• Freezing (Baked): Freeze cooled scones (without glaze) up to 2 months. Thaw and warm in oven.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Pastry cutter (or fork/your hands)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife or bench scraper

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Scones are the perfect blend of buttery, flaky pastry, tangy cranberries, and zesty orange. They’re festive yet simple, making them ideal for holidays, weekend breakfasts, or cozy tea breaks. With their bright flavor and tender texture, these scones are proof that homemade baking can be both easy and incredibly rewarding. Bake a batch, and you’ll see why this recipe becomes a household favorite.