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These scones mix tart cranberries with lively orange flavor in a soft, crumbly treat that's perfect for morning or an afternoon snack.
I whipped these scones up one chilly weekend, and the warm smell filled my kitchen. They soon turned into my favorite cozy treat whenever I wanted something comforting.
Needed Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter cubed: helps make the dough tender and flaky
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: pick fresh, finely ground for best results
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries: soak dried ones in warm water so they’re juicy
- 3/4 cup heavy cream: adds moisture and richness to the mix
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: for light, airy scones
- Zest from one big orange: brings a bright, citrus-y touch
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: just enough sweetness
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: balances all the flavors
Step-by-Step Cooking
- Warm Up Oven and Prep Pan
- Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment so your scones don’t stick and get nicely browned.
- Combine Dry Stuff
- Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a big bowl till it’s all evenly spread out.
- Add Butter
- Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix in the cold butter until you get a crumb-like texture. Cold butter is key for flaky layers, so don’t overwork it.
- Mix in Fruit and Zest
- Carefully fold in the cranberries and orange zest without squishing them to spread their flavor evenly.
- Pour in Cream and Combine
- Make a hole in the middle, pour in the cream, and stir gently just until the dough holds together. Don’t mix too much or it’ll get tough.
- Shape and Slice
- Put dough on a floured surface, press into a round about an inch thick. Cut into 8 wedges or use cookies cutters for fun shapes.
- Bake Until Done
- Space scones on your tray and bake for 15-20 minutes till they turn golden and feel firm to touch.
I love sprinkling coarse sugar on top before baking to get a little sparkle and crunch. The first time I shared these straight from the oven they vanished fast, which proves just how yummy they are.
How to Store
Keep leftover scones in a sealed container on the counter for up to two days so they stay soft. Warm them in a hot oven for a few minutes to freshen up. Freeze them wrapped separately in plastic and put in a sealed bag for up to three months. Thaw on the counter and warm gently before eating.
Switch Up Ingredients
Try dried cherries or blueberries instead of cranberries for a new fruity taste. Using fresh orange juice amps up citrus flavor, but keep some zest for smell. Swap heavy cream with sour cream or full-fat buttermilk to add a bit of tang and moistness. Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm spice twist that pairs well with the orange.
What to Serve With
Have them warm with butter or clotted cream and a drizzle of local honey for a sweet, creamy combo. A cup of Earl Grey tea is perfect since its bergamot matches the orange zest. Light roast coffee also goes great without overpowering the bright fruits.
Where It Comes From
These scones bring a British teatime classic with a twist from American cranberries. Scones started as simple quick breads meant for fresh tea times and now include all sorts of fruits and spices around the world. They’re a warm, simple favorite in cozy kitchens everywhere.
Grab these scones warm with your favorite drink and see how fast they become your go-to cozy treat. It’s proof that simple steps and fresh ingredients can turn a moment into a tasty little celebration.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → Why do scones stay soft and flaky?
Cold butter cut into the flour makes little fat pockets that melt when baking. That’s the trick for tender, flaky scones.
- → Is it okay to swap fresh cranberries for dried ones?
Sure! Just soak dried cranberries in warm water for about 10 minutes before adding. That helps them puff up and keep the scones moist.
- → What happens if I mix the dough too much?
Mixing too much wakes up the gluten in flour, which can make the scones tough instead of light and soft.
- → Why add orange zest to these scones?
Orange zest gives a fresh, citrus kick that lifts the flavor and balances the tart cranberries nicely.
- → How can I keep scones fresh the longest?
Let scones cool then store them in an airtight box at room temp for a couple of days. You can also freeze them if you want to save them longer.