Cranberry orange scones are a delightful combination of tender, buttery dough with the sweet and tangy flavors of orange zest and tart cranberries. These scones, often served warm, are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. While scones are a traditional British treat, cranberry orange scones have become especially popular during the holiday season in the United States and elsewhere, thanks to their bright, festive flavors. The citrus notes from the orange complement the slight tartness of the cranberries, creating a balanced, flavorful bite. Whether enjoyed on a cozy winter morning or shared at a holiday gathering, these scones bring a burst of freshness and warmth to the table, making them a seasonal favorite that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients Overview

To make cranberry orange scones, you’ll need a handful of basic ingredients typically found in most kitchens:

All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the scones.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the cranberries.
Baking powder: The leavening agent that helps the scones rise.

Salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
Cold butter: Creates the flakiness of the scones when combined with the dry ingredients.
Heavy cream or milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.

Egg: Contributes to structure and gives the scones a tender texture.
Fresh cranberries: Provide bursts of tart flavor; dried cranberries can be used if fresh are unavailable.
Orange zest: Adds a vibrant citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with the cranberries.

Vanilla extract (optional): For added depth of flavor.

Optional ingredients include nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) for a crunch, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice for added sweetness, or alternative sweeteners for dietary needs. For substitutions, you can use gluten-free flour or non-dairy milk alternatives like almond milk to accommodate various dietary restrictions.

Equipment Needed

To prepare cranberry orange scones, you’ll need the following essential kitchen tools:

Mixing bowls (one large and one medium) for combining ingredients.
Baking sheet lined with parchment paper for baking the scones.
Whisk to blend dry and wet ingredients.

Pastry cutter or fork to cut butter into the flour mixture.
Zester or fine grater for zesting the orange.
Measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient quantities.

Step-by-Step Instructions and Tips

How to Make Cranberry Orange Scones (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

2 cups all-purpose flour,

1/4 cup granulated sugar,
1 tablespoon baking powder,
1/2 teaspoon salt. Whisk these ingredients together until fully combined. The baking powder helps the scones rise, and the salt balances the sweetness.

Step 3: Incorporate the Butter

Cut 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold butter into small cubes. Using a pastry cutter or two forks, incorporate the butter into the flour mixture. Continue cutting the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter. The cold butter is key to creating the flaky texture in the finished scones.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

1/2 cup heavy cream or milk,

1 egg,
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice,
1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 medium orange).

Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the flour and butter mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to overmix the dough—mix just until combined to keep the scones light and tender.

Step 5: Fold in the Cranberries

Gently fold in 1 cup fresh cranberries (or dried if using). If using fresh cranberries, you can cut them in half if they’re large. Make sure the cranberries are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Form the Scones

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Pat the dough into a round disc, about 1 inch thick. Use a knife or a bench scraper to cut the disc into 8 equal wedges, or use a round biscuit cutter for circular scones.

Step 7: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1-2 inches of space between each one. Brush the tops with a little more cream or milk for a golden finish. You can also sprinkle some granulated sugar on top for extra crunch.

Step 8: Baking the Scones

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the scones are lightly golden around the edges and firm to the touch. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean.

Step 9: Cooling and Optional Glaze

Allow the scones to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, make a simple glaze by mixing 1 cup powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons orange juice and drizzle it over the cooled scones for an added sweet touch.

Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Scones

Don’t Overmix: One of the keys to tender, flaky scones is to mix the dough as little as possible. Overmixing can result in dense and tough scones.
Keep the Butter Cold: Cold butter is essential for flaky scones. If the butter begins to melt while handling, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before baking.
Flaky Texture: To achieve that ideal flaky texture, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Large pieces of butter left in the dough will create steam pockets when baked, resulting in flaky layers.

Sprinkle Sugar for Extra Crunch: Before baking, sprinkle a little granulated sugar on top of each scone. This adds a deliciously crunchy texture and a hint of sweetness.
Adjust Sweetness and Tartness: If you prefer sweeter scones, increase the sugar to 1/3 cup or add a little more orange zest for a stronger citrus flavor. For a more tart taste, use fresh cranberries and reduce the sugar slightly.
Make-Ahead and Freezing: You can prepare the scones ahead of time and freeze the unbaked dough. Once shaped, place the scones on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.

Variations on the Recipe

Lemon Cranberry Scones: Swap the orange zest and juice for lemon zest and juice. This gives a refreshing citrus twist, making the scones slightly more tart.
Blueberry Orange Scones: Replace cranberries with fresh or dried blueberries for a sweeter option. The combination of blueberry and orange adds a burst of summery flavors.
Add Nuts or Seeds: For extra texture and flavor, fold in 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) or 1-2 tablespoons of chia seeds along with the cranberries.

Mini Scones: If you prefer smaller scones, divide the dough into two discs and cut each disc into 6-8 smaller wedges. Mini scones are perfect for parties or a light snack.
Larger Scones: For bigger, bakery-style scones, form a thicker disc and cut into larger wedges. Adjust the baking time by adding an extra 5 minutes.
Gluten-Free Scones: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these scones gluten-free. The texture will be slightly different, but they’ll still taste delicious.

Dairy-Free Scones: Replace the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, and use almond milk or coconut milk instead of cream to make these scones dairy-free. The result will be a lighter texture with a subtle coconut flavor.

Serving Ideas for Cranberry Orange Scones

Cranberry orange scones are best served warm, fresh from the oven. Pair them with a spread of butter, clotted cream, or fruit preserves for a richer experience. For a special treat, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup on top. These scones are perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, especially when paired with tea, coffee, or fresh orange juice. They’re also great for afternoon tea or served as a festive addition to holiday breakfasts.

For a savory twist, you can serve them alongside a salad or soup for lunch. These scones are versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of the day, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a quiet morning at home.

How to Store Cranberry Orange Scones

To store your cranberry orange scones, allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. At room temperature, they will stay fresh for up to 2 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

For longer storage, scones freeze beautifully. After baking and cooling, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in a 350°F oven for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help them regain their crispness while staying soft inside.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Dry or Dense Scones: If your scones turn out too dry or dense, you may have overmixed the dough or added too much flour. Be sure to mix just until combined, and measure your flour carefully.

Scones Spread Too Much: If the scones spread excessively during baking, it’s likely because the butter was too warm. Ensure the butter is cold when you incorporate it, and chill the dough if needed before baking.
Uneven Baking: If your scones bake unevenly or have flat sides, try shaping them more uniformly and giving them space on the baking sheet. Rotating the baking sheet halfway through baking can also promote even cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cranberries in place of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them; just fold them directly into the dough. Keep in mind that frozen cranberries may release a bit more moisture, so slightly increase the flour if needed.

What’s the best way to cut scones without them losing their shape?
To keep scones from losing their shape, use a sharp knife or biscuit cutter dipped in flour to avoid sticking. Also, be sure the dough is cold and handle it minimally.
Can I make these scones ahead of time and bake them later?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, shape the scones, and freeze them before baking. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
What’s the secret to keeping scones moist?
Use heavy cream or milk for moisture, and don’t overbake the scones. Storing them in an airtight container or freezing them shortly after baking will also help preserve their freshness.

Cranberry Orange Scones

Author: Munil

Print Recipe

Description

These Cranberry Orange Scones are a perfect combination of tart cranberries and vibrant orange zest, baked into a buttery, flaky dough. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack, these scones deliver the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. The recipe is easy to follow and can be customized with various flavor variations or dietary adjustments. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven with a dollop of butter or drizzled with a simple orange glaze, these scones are sure to become a favorite.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a nonstick baking mat.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Fold in the cranberries, then add the cream, orange juice, and zest. Mix until just combined, adding extra cream if needed.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a 1-inch thick disc. Cut into 8 wedges and place on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly browned around the edges. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.

In a bowl, whisk together confectioner’s sugar, orange juice, and zest until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over slightly cooled scones and serve.

Notes

Cold Butter is Key: Keeping the butter cold is essential for creating those signature flaky layers in your scones. If the butter warms up too much while you’re working with it, you can chill the dough for a few minutes before baking to maintain its structure.
Fresh vs. Dried Cranberries: Fresh cranberries offer a juicy, tart flavor that complements the sweetness of the dough. If using dried cranberries, you might want to soak them briefly in hot water or orange juice to plump them up before adding them to the dough.

Orange Zest: Fresh orange zest provides a burst of citrus flavor that permeates the scones. Be sure to zest only the outer layer of the orange skin, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath.
Glaze Option: For a touch of sweetness, you can prepare a quick glaze using powdered sugar and fresh orange juice. Drizzle it over the cooled scones for a bakery-style finish.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can freeze unbaked scones for future use. Shape the dough, freeze the scones on a baking sheet until solid, then store them in an airtight container. When ready to bake, place the frozen scones directly into the oven, adding a few minutes to the bake time.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Adjustments: To make the recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use almond milk or coconut milk instead of heavy cream. For gluten-free scones, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.