Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Butter

Name: Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Butter
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 scones
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice

Highlighted under: SugarAlchemy Kitchen

Enjoy the delightful combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange in these scones, served with a creamy orange butter that adds a perfect finishing touch.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-16T18:02:19.083Z

These Cranberry Orange Scones are a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. The tartness of the cranberries paired with the brightness of the orange makes for a refreshing flavor combination. Serve them warm with a dollop of orange butter for an extra touch of sweetness.

        Why You Will Love These Scones
        Bursting with fresh cranberry and citrus flavors
Fluffy texture with a crispy exterior
Easy to make and perfect for any occasion
Deliciously paired with sweet orange butter

      

The Perfect Breakfast Treat

Cranberry orange scones make for a delightful breakfast treat that can brighten anyone's morning. The balance of tart cranberries and the sweet, zesty notes of orange creates a flavor profile that is both refreshing and comforting. These scones are not only easy to prepare, but they also fill your kitchen with a tantalizing aroma as they bake, making them an inviting addition to any breakfast table.

Whether you're hosting a brunch or simply indulging in a quiet morning at home, these scones are versatile enough to suit any occasion. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy start to your day, or serve them alongside a fruit salad for a more complete breakfast spread. They are the perfect way to show your loved ones that you care.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the great things about scones is their versatility. While this recipe features cranberries and orange, you can easily substitute these ingredients with your favorites. Consider using blueberries or raspberries for a different fruity twist, or add in some chocolate chips for a sweeter variation. The basic scone dough is a blank canvas, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen.

Additionally, scones can be enjoyed at any time of the day. They are not limited to breakfast; serve them as an afternoon snack or a light dessert. With the addition of the creamy orange butter, they become an indulgent treat that your family and friends will rave about.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftover scones, storing them properly is essential to maintain their freshness. Allow the scones to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to two days, but for longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag, where they will keep for up to three months.

To enjoy the scones after freezing, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature. For a freshly-baked taste, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will restore their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, making them just as delightful as when they were first made.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Scones

For the Scones

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
1 tablespoon orange zest
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Orange Butter

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon orange zest
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice

Instructions

How to Make Cranberry Orange Scones

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add Cranberries and Zest

Gently fold in the chopped cranberries and orange zest.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract.

Form the Dough

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.

Shape the Scones

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into 8 wedges and place on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly.

Make the Orange Butter

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, orange zest, powdered sugar, and orange juice. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Serve

Serve the scones warm with a generous spread of orange butter.

Enjoy your freshly baked scones!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your scones even further, consider serving them with a variety of toppings. In addition to the orange butter, you can offer clotted cream, whipped cream, or even a light drizzle of honey. Fresh fruit or a fruit compote can also complement the flavors beautifully, adding a burst of freshness that enhances the overall experience.

For a more festive touch, these scones can be adorned with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice. This not only adds sweetness but also a lovely visual appeal, making your scones even more enticing.

Pairing with Beverages

When it comes to pairing beverages with your cranberry orange scones, the options are plentiful. A hot cup of English breakfast tea complements the scones perfectly, providing a traditional pairing that enhances the flavors of the citrus and cranberries. If you prefer coffee, a light roast will work well, while a dark roast can offer a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the scones.

For those who enjoy a bit of sparkle, consider serving your scones with a glass of fresh orange juice or even a mimosa for a celebratory feel. These refreshing options will enhance the citrus notes in the scones and create a delightful dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, frozen cranberries can be used, but do not thaw them before adding to the dough.

→ How do I store leftover scones?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make the scone 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 be less rich.