Cranberry Orange Scones (Bakery-Style)

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There’s something magical about the combination of tart cranberries and bright, zesty oranges that instantly lifts spirits and evokes cozy vibes. These Cranberry Orange Scones (Bakery-Style) are not only a delightful treat to enjoy with your morning coffee or afternoon tea, but they also bring a touch of warmth to any gathering. With a tender, flaky texture and a sweet citrus glaze, these scones are sure to impress. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these scones are worth every moment spent in the kitchen.

Why Cranberry Orange Scones (Bakery-Style) is Worth Your Time

These scones are everything you want in a bakery-style treat—fluffy, buttery, and bursting with flavor. The addition of fresh or frozen cranberries provides a tartness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the orange zest and glaze. Plus, the process of making scones is incredibly satisfying. You’ll feel like a true baker when you mix, shape, and bake these beauties. They’re perfect for brunch, and they also make a lovely gift for friends and family. Trust us, once you whip up a batch of these Cranberry Orange Scones (Bakery-Style), you’ll be tempted to make them again and again.

Ingredient Rundown

To achieve the best results, make sure you gather the following ingredients:

• 2 and 3/4 cups (330g) all-purpose flour: The base of your scone, providing structure.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Leavens the scones, making them light and fluffy.
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough.
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed: Provides a hint of caramel flavor.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest, finely grated: Infuses the scones with bright citrus flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom: An aromatic spice that complements the orange beautifully.
• 10 tablespoons (140g) unsalted butter, very cold and cut into tiny pieces: Ensures a tender, flaky texture.
• 1 large egg, cold: Helps bind the ingredients together.
• 1 large egg yolk, cold: Adds richness to the dough.
• 3/4 cup heavy cream: Makes the scones rich and moist.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon orange extract (optional but highly recommended): Intensifies the orange flavor.
• 1 and 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, do not thaw: Provides bursts of tartness.
• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash): Gives the scones a golden finish.
• 1 teaspoon water: Helps thin the egg wash.
• 2 tablespoons sparkling sugar (optional): Adds a beautiful crunch and sparkle.
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted: For the glaze.
• 2 tablespoons orange juice: Adds flavor to the glaze.
• 1 teaspoon orange zest, finely grated: Enhances the glaze with extra citrus notes.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: For a hint of warmth in the glaze.
• 1/8 teaspoon salt (optional but recommended): Cuts the sweetness of the glaze.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before you start baking, gather these essential tools:

• Baking sheet: To bake your scones on.
• Parchment paper: For lining the baking sheet and easy cleanup.
• Mixing bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients.
• Pastry cutter or fork: To cut the butter into the flour.
• Rolling pin: If you prefer rolling out the dough, though shaping by hand is just as effective.
• Cookie cutter or knife: For cutting the scones into your desired shape.
• Whisk: For mixing together the wet ingredients.
• Cooling rack: To let the scones cool after baking.

Cranberry Orange Scones (Bakery-Style): Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, orange zest, cinnamon, and cardamom until well combined.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the very cold butter pieces to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or fork, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter remaining.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cold egg, cold egg yolk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and orange extract. Mix until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 6: Fold in the Cranberries

Gently fold in the cranberries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Use a sharp knife or pastry cutter to slice the dough into 8 equal wedges.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking

Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and water. Brush the egg wash over the tops of the scones and sprinkle with sparkling sugar if desired.

Step 9: Bake

Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Make the Glaze

While the scones are baking, prepare the orange glaze by whisking together the sifted confectioners’ sugar, orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.

Step 11: Drizzle and Enjoy

Once the scones are out of the oven, let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Drizzle the glaze over the warm scones before serving.

What to Use Instead

If you find yourself missing some ingredients, here are suitable alternatives:

• All-purpose flour: Can be substituted with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
• Granulated sugar: Coconut sugar or a sugar substitute can work in a pinch.
• Heavy cream: Use half-and-half or whole milk if you don’t have heavy cream on hand.
• Butter: Margarine or a plant-based butter can be used for a dairy-free option.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

When making Cranberry Orange Scones (Bakery-Style), keep these tips in mind:

• Ensure your butter is very cold for optimal flakiness.
• Don’t overmix the dough; it should be slightly crumbly.
• Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor—frozen cranberries can work but ensure they are not thawed.
• Let the scones cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

You can easily prepare the dough ahead of time:

• Shape the scones and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for storage. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
• Make the glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

FAQ

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried cranberries, but the flavor and texture will differ. Fresh cranberries provide a tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the scone.

How do I store leftover scones?

Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them and reheat as needed.

Can I make these scones gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, and adjust the liquid as needed for consistency.

What can I serve with these scones?

These scones pair beautifully with clotted cream, butter, or even a dollop of your favorite jam. For a delightful breakfast, serve them alongside Lemon Ricotta Blueberry Pancakes With Warm Syrup.

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• Creamy Spinach Alfredo Chicken Roll Ups for a savory treat.
• Sweet And Spicy Orange Beef Udon Noodles for a flavorful dinner option.

That’s a Wrap

Indulge in the delightful flavors of these Cranberry Orange Scones (Bakery-Style), and let the warmth of citrus and cranberries fill your home. With every bite, you’ll savor the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making them a memorable addition to your baking repertoire. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or as a delightful treat throughout the week, and watch as they quickly become a favorite in your household. Happy baking!

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