Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Butter

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

Highlighted under: FreshGlow Recipes

Delight in the perfect combination of tart cranberries and zesty oranges in these buttery scones, served with a luscious orange butter.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T19:18:19.039Z

These Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Butter are perfect for a cozy breakfast or an afternoon tea. The bright flavors of orange and tart cranberries make these scones a delightful treat, while the orange butter adds an extra layer of richness.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with the vibrant flavors of orange and cranberry
Flaky texture that crumbles beautifully
Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack
Easy to make and perfect for sharing

      

The Flavor Combination

Cranberry Orange Scones are a delightful marriage of flavors that awaken the senses. The tartness of dried cranberries perfectly complements the bright, zesty notes of fresh orange. Each bite offers a harmonious balance that is both refreshing and comforting. This unique flavor profile makes these scones a standout choice for any occasion, from a cozy breakfast to a festive brunch.

The use of orange zest not only enhances the taste but also adds a beautiful aroma to the scones. As they bake, the sweet and citrusy scent fills your kitchen, creating an irresistible atmosphere. The addition of butter contributes to the scones' rich and flaky texture, ensuring that each piece melts in your mouth. It's a simple yet elegant treat that everyone will adore.

Perfectly Flaky Texture

Achieving the ideal flaky texture is key to making perfect scones. The secret lies in using cold butter and not overworking the dough. When cold butter is cut into the flour mixture, it creates pockets of air that expand during baking, resulting in a light and airy scone. This technique is essential for that signature crumbly texture that scones are known for.

Gentle handling of the dough is equally important. Kneading it just enough to bring it together ensures that the scones remain tender. When you cut the dough into wedges and bake them, the layers separate beautifully, creating a delicate and flaky bite. Pairing this texture with the contrasting tart and sweet flavors of cranberries and orange makes for an irresistible treat.

Versatile Serving Suggestions

These Cranberry Orange Scones are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them warm with a pat of orange butter for a delightful breakfast or afternoon tea. They also make an excellent accompaniment to coffee or tea, perfect for a cozy gathering with friends or family. Their vibrant colors and enticing aromas make them a fantastic addition to any brunch spread.

For a more indulgent dessert, consider drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the cooled scones. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and enhances the citrus flavor. Whether enjoyed plain, with butter, or dressed up with a glaze, these scones are sure to impress and satisfy.

Ingredients

For the Scones

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

For the Orange Butter

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Zest of 1 orange
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 tablespoon orange juice

Mix all the ingredients well before baking.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the 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 the cranberries and orange zest.

Combine Wet Ingredients

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

Shape the Scones

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently. Pat into a circle about 1-inch thick and cut into 8 wedges.

Bake the Scones

Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until golden.

Make the Orange Butter

While the scones are baking, mix the softened butter, orange zest, powdered sugar, and orange juice in a bowl until smooth.

Serve

Let the scones cool slightly before serving with the orange butter.

Enjoy your homemade scones!

Storing and Freezing Scones

To keep your scones fresh, it's best to store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for up to two days. If you prefer to enjoy them later, consider freezing the scones before baking. Simply shape the dough into wedges, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, and transfer to a freezer bag. When you're ready to bake, you can cook them straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Baked scones can also be frozen for later enjoyment. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will retain their flavor and texture for a couple of months. Reheat them in the oven or microwave for a few seconds before serving to enjoy that freshly baked taste.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to customize these scones to suit your taste! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. For a richer flavor, consider incorporating chocolate chips or a drizzle of white chocolate on top. Experimenting with different dried fruits, such as blueberries or cherries, can also provide a unique twist to the traditional scone recipe.

If you're looking for a healthier version, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use a sugar substitute. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of butter by using yogurt or applesauce for a lighter option. These variations not only change the flavor profile but also cater to different dietary preferences while still delivering delicious results.

Why You Should Try Making Scones

Making scones is a rewarding experience that allows you to create something truly special from scratch. The process is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all levels. Plus, there's something incredibly satisfying about enjoying a freshly baked scone that you made yourself, especially when paired with a cup of tea or coffee.

Moreover, scones are perfect for sharing. Whether you're hosting a brunch or attending a gathering, these delightful pastries will surely impress your friends and family. Their delightful flavors and beautiful presentation make them a beloved choice for any occasion. So why not try your hand at making these Cranberry Orange Scones? You might just find a new favorite recipe to share and enjoy!

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 do I store leftover scones?

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

→ Can I freeze the scones?

Yes, you can freeze unbaked scones and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.