Easy Cranberry Orange Scones
If you’re craving a bakery-style treat that’s buttery, flaky, and bursting with flavor, these Easy Cranberry Orange Scones are a must-try. We tested this recipe today, and the combination of tangy cranberries with fresh orange zest is absolutely irresistible. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a festive holiday bake.
Quick Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 8 scones
Ingredients for Easy Cranberry Orange Scones
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- 1/2 cup dried or fresh cranberries
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 2/3 cup heavy cream (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: coarse sugar for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare: Heat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in Butter: Use a pastry cutter or fingers to cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Flavor: Stir in cranberries and orange zest.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk cream, egg, and vanilla. Add to dry mixture and stir gently until dough comes together.
- Shape & Cut: Transfer dough to a floured surface, form into an 8-inch circle, and cut into 8 wedges.
- Bake: Place scones on the baking sheet, brush tops with cream, and sprinkle coarse sugar if desired.
- Finish: Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden. Cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Scone)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~280 |
| Total Fat | 13g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 37g |
| Sugar | 12g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 220mg |
(Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)
Why You’ll Love These Scones
- Bursting with flavor – tart cranberries and citrusy orange zest balance perfectly.
- Quick & easy – ready in under 40 minutes.
- Holiday-perfect – a festive addition to any breakfast table.
- Customizable – swap cranberries for blueberries or glaze with orange icing.
Health Benefits
- Cranberries – Rich in antioxidants, support urinary tract health, and boost immunity.
- Oranges – Excellent source of Vitamin C, supports skin and immune system.
- Homemade Advantage – Lower in preservatives and customizable for dietary needs.
FAQs About Cranberry Orange Scones
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes! No need to thaw—just add them directly to the dough.
How do I make them softer?
Don’t overwork the dough. Handle it gently for fluffy, tender scones.
Can I make these scones ahead of time?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked wedges and bake straight from frozen (adding 3–4 minutes to bake time).
Can I add a glaze?
Absolutely! Mix powdered sugar with fresh orange juice for a sweet citrus glaze.
Pro Tips for Perfect Scones
- Keep butter cold for maximum flakiness.
- Chill the shaped dough in the fridge for 15 minutes before baking for better rise.
- Use heavy cream instead of milk for richer flavor.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Cranberry Orange Scones are everything a homemade pastry should be—flaky, buttery, tangy, and sweet. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or glazed with a citrus drizzle, they’re guaranteed to impress at any breakfast or brunch.
