Cranberry Orange Scones Orange Butter

Name: Cranberry Orange Scones Orange Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 scones
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipe Collection

Delight in the sweet and tangy flavors of these Cranberry Orange Scones, perfectly paired with a creamy orange butter.

Created by

Luca

Last updated on 2025-12-25T20:26:28.138Z

These Cranberry Orange Scones are a delightful treat for breakfast or afternoon tea. The combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange creates a refreshing flavor that is simply irresistible.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Perfectly balanced sweetness and tartness from cranberries and orange.
Flaky and tender texture that melts in your mouth.
Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

      

The Perfect Pairing of Flavors

Cranberry Orange Scones are a delightful blend of sweet and tart, making them the perfect treat for any time of the day. The cranberries add a burst of tartness that beautifully complements the bright, citrusy notes of the orange zest. This harmonious combination creates a flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying, ensuring each bite is a delightful experience.

Using high-quality ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor in these scones. Fresh orange zest enhances the sweetness of the scones, while the dried cranberries provide a chewy texture that contrasts with the flaky, tender scone base. Together, they create a delicious balance that is sure to impress.

A Versatile Treat for Any Occasion

These scones are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a brunch, enjoying a cozy afternoon tea, or simply looking for a comforting snack, Cranberry Orange Scones are a perfect choice. Their bright flavors make them an excellent addition to holiday celebrations as well, adding a festive touch to your table.

Pair these scones with coffee or tea for a delightful morning treat or serve them as part of a dessert platter. Their appealing presentation and delicious taste will have your guests reaching for seconds!

Tips for Perfect Scones

To achieve the perfect texture for your scones, remember to handle the dough as little as possible. Overworking the dough can lead to tough scones, so mix just until combined. Additionally, using cold butter is essential in creating that flaky, tender texture. Cold ingredients help to create steam during baking, resulting in a lighter scone.

For a golden finish, brush the tops of the scones with an egg wash before baking. This simple step ensures that your scones have a beautiful color and a slightly crisp exterior, making them even more inviting.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Scones

For the Scones

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1 tablespoon orange zest
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 large egg

For the Orange Butter

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon orange zest
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice

Instructions

How to Make Cranberry Orange Scones

Prepare the Dough

Preheat the 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. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in the cranberries and orange zest.

Form the Scones

Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into 8 wedges and place on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Scones

Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and let cool slightly.

Make the Orange Butter

While the scones are baking, beat together the softened butter, orange zest, powdered sugar, and orange juice until light and fluffy.

Serve

Serve the warm scones with a generous spread of orange butter.

Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Orange Scones!

Storing Leftover Scones

If you have leftover scones, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This will help maintain their freshness and prevent them from becoming stale. If you prefer, you can also freeze the scones for longer storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.

To enjoy frozen scones, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes. This will bring back their delightful texture and flavor as if they were just baked.

Customizing Your Scones

Feel free to customize these scones to suit your taste preferences! You can substitute dried cranberries with other fruits such as blueberries, cherries, or even chocolate chips for a sweeter variation. Additionally, experimenting with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg can add a unique twist to the flavor profile.

For a more indulgent treat, consider adding a drizzle of icing or glaze on top of the scones after they have cooled. This extra touch can elevate the dish and make it even more inviting for your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the sugar as fresh cranberries are more tart.

→ How should I store leftover scones?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

→ Can I freeze the scone dough?

Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked scones for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative, but the texture may vary.