Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Butter
Highlighted under: Bakery-Style Treat Recipes
Delight in the perfect blend of tart cranberries and zesty oranges with these delectable scones, served warm with a rich orange butter.
These Cranberry Orange Scones are a delightful treat for breakfast or brunch. The combination of tart cranberries and sweet orange zest creates a flavor explosion that is sure to please any palate. Paired with homemade orange butter, these scones become a luxurious indulgence.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with fresh cranberry and orange flavors
- Flaky and tender texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy mornings
The Perfect Holiday Treat
Cranberry Orange Scones are not just a delightful breakfast option; they are also an ideal treat for holiday gatherings. Their vibrant colors and enticing aroma create a festive atmosphere, making them a favorite at brunches and family get-togethers. Imagine serving these warm, flaky scones alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea, while friends and family mingle and enjoy the cheerful ambiance.
The combination of tart cranberries and zesty oranges is a match made in heaven, capturing the essence of the holiday season. The scones can also be easily transformed into a delightful dessert by pairing them with your favorite jams or whipped cream. Whether it's a holiday celebration or a cozy morning at home, these scones are sure to impress.
A Simple Yet Delicious Recipe
One of the best aspects of making Cranberry Orange Scones is their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. The straightforward process of mixing dry and wet ingredients makes it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Even those who are new to baking will find joy in creating these delicious treats.
Additionally, the scone dough can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, ready to bake when the mood strikes. This makes it a convenient choice for busy mornings or unexpected guests. Just pop them in the oven, and in less than 30 minutes, your home will be filled with the warm, inviting scent of fresh scones.
Serving Suggestions
These scones are delightful on their own, but serving them with homemade orange butter takes them to the next level. The rich, creamy butter infused with orange juice and zest perfectly complements the tartness of the cranberries and the sweetness of the scones. Spread a generous dollop on a warm scone for an unforgettable experience.
For an extra touch, consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze on top before serving. These small enhancements can elevate your scones, making them even more appealing. Don't hesitate to experiment with different toppings and accompaniments to create your own signature serving style.
Ingredients
For the Scones
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
For the Orange Butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Mix together to ensure all ingredients are combined well.
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the cranberries and orange zest.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Shape and Bake
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently until it comes together. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Make the Orange Butter
While the scones are baking, prepare the orange butter by mixing softened butter, orange juice, orange zest, and powdered sugar until smooth. Set aside.
Serve the warm scones with the orange butter for a delightful treat.
Storage Tips
To keep your Cranberry Orange Scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing them. Allow the baked scones to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy a scone, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. For the best texture, pop it in the oven for a few minutes to reheat and restore its flaky goodness.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize your scones by adding nuts, such as chopped pecans or walnuts, for an added crunch. Chocolate chips can also be a delightful addition, creating a sweet contrast with the tart cranberries. You might also experiment with different citrus fruits, like lemon or grapefruit, to create unique flavor profiles.
If you're looking for a healthier twist, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will give your scones a nuttier flavor and boost their nutritional content without sacrificing taste.
Pairing Ideas
Cranberry Orange Scones pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. A cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee complements their flavors perfectly, making for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack. You could also enjoy them with a glass of fresh orange juice for a refreshing start to your day.
For a more indulgent experience, serve the scones alongside a creamy yogurt parfait or a fruit salad. The combination of flavors and textures will create a delightful breakfast spread that your family and friends will love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using.
→ How should I store leftover scones?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
→ Can I substitute the buttermilk?
You can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.
→ How can I make these scones sweeter?
You can increase the amount of sugar in the dough or drizzle a glaze over the scones after baking.
Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Butter
Delight in the perfect blend of tart cranberries and zesty oranges with these delectable scones, served warm with a rich orange butter.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Bakery-Style Treat Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 scones
What You'll Need
For the Scones
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
For the Orange Butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the cranberries and orange zest.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently until it comes together. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
While the scones are baking, prepare the orange butter by mixing softened butter, orange juice, orange zest, and powdered sugar until smooth. Set aside.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 3g