Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Butter

Name: Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 scones
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 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; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 tablespoon orange juice

Highlighted under: Sweet Indulgence Recipes

Delight in the festive flavors of these Cranberry Orange Scones paired with a luscious Orange Butter. Perfect for breakfast or a delightful afternoon tea.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-17T01:26:18.056Z

These Cranberry Orange Scones are a delightful combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange, creating a refreshing treat that is perfect for any occasion. The addition of Orange Butter elevates these scones, making them a luxurious addition to your breakfast table.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bursting with bright citrus flavor balanced by sweet cranberries
Flaky, tender texture that pairs perfectly with Orange Butter
Ideal for festive gatherings or a cozy morning treat

      

The Perfect Combination of Flavors

Cranberry Orange Scones are a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors that evoke the spirit of the holiday season. The bright citrus notes from the orange zest complement the natural sweetness of dried cranberries, creating a harmonious balance that is both refreshing and comforting. Each bite bursts with flavor, making these scones a standout choice for any occasion, from festive brunches to cozy family gatherings.

The addition of orange zest not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a vibrant color that makes these scones visually appealing. Pairing these scones with the homemade Orange Butter elevates them to a new level of indulgence. The creamy, slightly sweet butter infused with orange zest and juice is the perfect finishing touch, enhancing the overall experience and making each bite even more memorable.

A Versatile Treat for Any Occasion

These Cranberry Orange Scones are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of day. Whether served as a delightful breakfast option alongside a steaming cup of coffee or as a sweet treat during afternoon tea, they are sure to impress. Their flaky texture and rich flavors make them suitable for both casual and formal gatherings, ensuring they will be a hit with family and friends alike.

In addition to being perfect for holiday celebrations, these scones can also be made year-round. The combination of cranberries and orange is not just festive; it’s a refreshing blend that brightens up any meal. You can also experiment by adding your favorite nuts or spices to the dough, allowing you to customize the recipe to suit your taste.

Baking Tips for Perfect Scones

To achieve the perfect flaky texture in your scones, it’s essential to keep the butter cold. This helps create steam during baking, resulting in that coveted light and airy structure. When cutting the butter into the flour mixture, aim for pea-sized pieces to ensure even distribution without overworking the dough. Remember, the key to tender scones is handling the dough as little as possible.

Another tip for success is to avoid overmixing the wet and dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This will help maintain the scones’ tender texture. Lastly, for an extra touch of flavor, consider brushing the tops of the scones with a little heavy cream before baking for a golden finish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious scones:

For the Scones

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 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
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 tablespoon orange juice

Make sure to have everything ready before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Cranberry Orange Scones:

Prepare the Scone Dough

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 cranberries and orange zest.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and egg. Add to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

Shape and Bake

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead a few times. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick, then cut into wedges. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Make the Orange Butter

While the scones are baking, prepare the orange butter by mixing softened butter, powdered sugar, orange zest, and orange juice until smooth. Set aside.

Allow the scones to cool slightly before serving with the orange butter. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top of the scones before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Cranberry Orange Scones warm, straight from the oven, for the best flavor and texture. They are delightful on their own, but for an even more indulgent treat, slather them with the homemade Orange Butter. The rich, creamy butter pairs beautifully with the zesty scones and adds a touch of luxury to your snack or breakfast.

For a festive touch, consider garnishing your scones with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of orange glaze. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the flavors perfectly. Serve them alongside a selection of teas or coffee for a delightful afternoon spread.

Storing and Freezing Scones

If you have leftover scones (though they are likely to disappear quickly!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To maintain their freshness, you can also refrigerate them, but be sure to warm them up before serving for the best taste and texture.

For longer storage, these scones freeze exceptionally well! Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes. This allows you to savor the flavors of your Cranberry Orange Scones anytime you crave a sweet treat!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but you may want to increase the sugar slightly to balance the tartness.

→ How should I store leftover scones?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ 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 can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the scones may be less rich and tender.