A delightful treat that combines the sweet, citrusy zest of orange with tart, juicy cranberries, cranberry orange scones are perfect for cozy mornings or a special brunch. These scones bring a warm, inviting aroma to your kitchen, filling the air with a blend of fresh citrus and buttery richness. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or drizzled with a simple orange glaze, each bite of these scones is soft, flaky, and bursting with vibrant flavor—a treat that’s as satisfying to the senses as it is to the palate.

Remember it later

Like this recipe? Pin it to your favorite board NOW!

Ingredients Overview

Creating cranberry orange scones requires a handful of essential ingredients, each contributing to the recipe’s unique taste and texture. Frozen butter, grated directly into the dough, is key to a flaky, tender crumb, while sour cream or plain Greek yogurt adds subtle richness and moisture. The orange zest and fresh cranberries are the stars of the show, infusing the scones with a bright, fruity flavor. A touch of vanilla extract enhances the sweetness, and heavy cream helps bind the dough while adding a lovely richness. This balance of tart, sweet, and buttery elements makes these scones a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a breakfast spread or an afternoon treat.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Scones

Before starting, prepare the baking essentials to ensure each step flows smoothly. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), and line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this simple step makes cleanup easy and ensures even baking.

Begin by combining the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt—in a large mixing bowl. This mixture forms the foundation of the dough, and careful mixing ensures even texture in each bite. Next, incorporate frozen butter. Grate it directly into the dry mixture, then use a pastry blender or fork to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The frozen butter pieces will create tiny pockets of steam as they bake, giving the scones a light, flaky texture.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, heavy whipping cream, egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest. This blend of wet ingredients adds richness and helps bring out the fresh citrus flavor. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Fold in the halved cranberries carefully, ensuring even distribution without overworking the dough, which could make the scones tough.

Turn the dough onto a floured surface, then press or roll it into a 1-inch-thick circle. Divide the dough into 8 equal wedges. Transfer the wedges onto the baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Lightly brush the tops with a bit of heavy cream for a golden, slightly crispy finish.

Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the tops are golden. Once baked, allow the scones to cool on a rack for about 10 minutes. During this time, mix the glaze by combining powdered sugar with freshly squeezed orange juice, adjusting the consistency as needed. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled scones for a sweet, citrusy finish.

Recipe Tips

Choosing Fresh Cranberries:
Fresh cranberries add a burst of tartness that complements the sweet, buttery dough. If using frozen, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture.

How to Freeze Butter for Best Results:
Freeze the butter for at least an hour before grating. This method keeps the butter from melting into the dough, creating flakier layers in the scones.

Achieving the Perfect Glaze:
Adjust the glaze thickness by adding extra orange juice for a thinner drizzle or more powdered sugar for a thicker coating.

Handling the Dough:
Minimal handling is key to keeping scones tender. Gently fold the dough until combined, and avoid overmixing to prevent a dense texture.

What to Serve with This Recipe

For a cozy breakfast, these scones pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, black tea, or freshly squeezed orange juice. The tangy citrus flavor and buttery crumb make them perfect alongside light, fresh sides like seasonal fruit or a bowl of creamy yogurt. To elevate a brunch spread, serve these cranberry orange scones on a brunch board with fresh fruit, cheeses, and maybe a dollop of clotted cream for a touch of decadence. Their bright flavor and crumbly texture add a delightful balance to any table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Dried Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, dried cranberries work well as a substitute, though they lack the juicy burst of fresh ones. If using dried, try soaking them in warm water for a few minutes to rehydrate before folding into the dough.

How Do I Store Leftover Scones?
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For a fresher texture, reheat them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Can I Make These Scones Ahead?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Alternatively, freeze unbaked scones on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to a month. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How Do I Adjust the Recipe for Extra Flavors?
Adding nuts, such as chopped walnuts or almonds, gives a pleasant crunch, while spices like cinnamon or nutmeg add warmth. For a tropical twist, consider adding a small amount of shredded coconut.

Variations and Substitutions

Switch up the citrus by using lemon zest instead of orange for a different flavor profile. Adding a handful of chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, lends a satisfying crunch. For a healthier take, substitute granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like coconut sugar or a smaller amount of honey. You can also experiment with the glaze by adding a splash of vanilla or almond extract, creating a unique taste to complement these tender scones.

Cranberry orange scones are a wonderful addition to any breakfast or brunch, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. With their bright cranberry tang and warm citrus notes, these scones bring a burst of freshness to the table. Enjoy the process of baking these fragrant treats, and don’t hesitate to share them with family or friends for a sweet start to the day.

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, frozen
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup sour cream (light, regular, or substitute with plain Greek yogurt)
1/3 cup heavy whipping cream
6 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Zest of 1 orange
1 large egg
1 cup fresh cranberries, halved
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the glaze:

2/3 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice

Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper, setting it aside for later use.

In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Take the frozen butter and grate it directly into the flour mixture, using a pastry blender or fork to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. For optimal results, place this mixture in the refrigerator while you prepare the wet ingredients.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, heavy whipping cream, egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest until well combined. Pour this wet mixture into the flour blend, gently stirring until the ingredients are just moistened and starting to come together.

Gently fold in the cranberries, ensuring even distribution. Flour or lightly grease your hands and carefully bring the dough together, then transfer it onto a floured surface. Press or lightly roll the dough into a round, approximately 1 inch in thickness.

Slice the dough circle into 8 equal wedges and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush the tops of each scone with a bit of heavy cream. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until they reach a light golden color.

Once baked, remove the scones from the baking sheet and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. During this time, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar with the freshly squeezed orange juice until smooth. Adjust with more juice or powdered sugar as needed for your desired drizzling consistency. Drizzle over the cooled scones, and enjoy these fragrant, freshly baked treats.