Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Butter

Name: Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Butter
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 scones
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 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 fresh orange juice

Highlighted under: Cozy Desserts

Enjoy the delightful combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange in these fluffy scones, served with a rich orange butter that elevates the experience.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T20:22:18.441Z

These Cranberry Orange Scones are a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors, making them an ideal treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack. The addition of homemade orange butter adds a luxurious touch that complements the scones beautifully.

        Why You'll Love These Scones
        Bursting with flavor from fresh cranberries and orange zest
Fluffy texture that is perfect for any occasion
Easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family

      

The Perfect Brunch Treat

Cranberry Orange Scones are an ideal addition to any brunch spread. Their vibrant flavors not only awaken the palate but also add a splash of color to your table. Pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee, and you have the perfect setting for a leisurely weekend morning. These scones are not just for brunch; they can also be enjoyed as a delightful snack any time of the day.

What makes these scones even more special is their versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to include seasonal fruits, nuts, or even chocolate chips to suit your taste. The base recipe remains simple and forgiving, allowing for creativity in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Why Fresh Ingredients Matter

Using fresh ingredients is crucial in baking, particularly with scones where texture and flavor play key roles. Fresh cranberries add a tartness that dried or frozen varieties cannot replicate. Similarly, using freshly grated orange zest infuses the scones with a vibrant citrus aroma that will fill your kitchen, enhancing the overall experience of baking.

When selecting your butter, opt for high-quality unsalted butter. This not only contributes to a richer flavor but also allows you to control the saltiness of your scones. Cold butter creates that desirable flaky texture, making each bite light and airy. Investing in quality ingredients pays off in the final product.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once baked, these scones can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cooled scones in a single layer in a freezer bag, and they can last for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their original fluffiness.

Serving these scones with homemade orange butter elevates the experience to a whole new level. The sweet and tangy butter complements the tartness of the cranberries beautifully. You can also experiment with other flavored butters or jams to find your perfect pairing, making these scones a delightful treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Scones

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 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 fresh orange juice

Mix all the ingredients well to ensure a consistent dough.

Instructions

Prepare the Scone Dough

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in cranberries and orange zest.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and the egg. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined.

Shape and Bake

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick and cut into 12 wedges. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Make the Orange Butter

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

Serve

Once the scones are baked, let them cool slightly before serving with the orange butter.

Enjoy your freshly baked scones with a dollop of orange butter!

Tips for Perfect Scones

To achieve the best texture, avoid overworking the dough. Mix until just combined to keep the scones light and fluffy. When kneading, use a gentle touch to prevent the development of gluten, which can lead to tough scones.

Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can enhance the flavor and texture. This step allows the butter to firm up, resulting in a flakier scone. If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but the extra care will be worth it.

Pairing Suggestions

These scones pair beautifully with various beverages. A robust black tea complements the zesty flavors, while a sweet iced tea can balance the tartness of the cranberries. For coffee lovers, a smooth, medium roast can enhance the overall tasting experience.

For a more vibrant brunch, consider serving the scones alongside a fruit salad or yogurt parfait. The refreshing fruits will contrast nicely with the richness of the scones and orange butter, creating a well-rounded meal that impresses guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, but fresh cranberries may make the scones a bit more tart. Consider adding a bit more sugar.

→ How should I store leftover scones?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the scones may not be as rich.