Easy Cranberry Orange Scones

Here is a favorite cranberry orange scones recipe. Cranberry orange scones bring together bright citrus flavor and sweet tart berries in a soft, buttery bake that feels cozy and fresh. This easy cranberry orange scones recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and comes together quickly, making it great for breakfast, brunch, or a midday snack.

Fresh orange zest adds a light, fragrant touch while dried cranberries give little bursts of flavor in every bite. These homemade scones bake up golden on the outside with a tender center that pairs so well with a warm drink. If you love bakery style treats at home, this is one you will come back to often.

There is something so comforting about baking a batch of scones and filling the kitchen with that citrusy aroma. I love making these on slower mornings when I want something warm and homemade without spending too much time in the kitchen. They feel a little special but still simple enough for any day of the week. Once you try them fresh from the oven, it is easy to see why they become a go to favorite. This is a scone recipe to make on repeat!

Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe

Why you will love this recipe

You will love this recipe because it is simple to make and gives you soft, tender scones every time. The dried cranberries add sweet bites throughout each scone, while the fresh orange zest brings a bright citrus flavor that stands out. These scones have a light texture with a golden top and a soft center. They are great for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.

Ingredients For This Recipe

• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup buttermilk or heavy cream
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• zest from one orange
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• 1 cup dried cranberries

How To Make Cranberry Orange Scones

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Add the cold butter pieces to the bowl. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the texture looks like coarse crumbs with small bits of butter throughout.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk or heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, orange zest, and fresh orange juice until smooth.

Step 5: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently mix just until the dough starts to come together.

Step 6: Fold in the dried cranberries so they are evenly mixed into the dough.

Step 7: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently bring it together and shape into a round about 1 inch thick.

Step 8: Cut into 8 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until the tops are lightly golden and the centers are set.

Step 9: Let the scones cool for a few minutes before serving or adding glaze if you like.

Tips For Making Cranberry Orange Scones

For the best texture, keep your butter very cold and work it into the flour quickly so it stays in small pieces, which helps create a light, tender crumb. Use fresh orange zest and fresh orange juice for a brighter flavor that really stands out. When mixing the dough, stir just until it comes together so the scones stay soft, and lightly flour your surface so the dough does not stick. If the dough feels too dry, add a small splash of cream, and if it feels too sticky, add a light dusting of flour. For even baking, cut the wedges the same size and give them a little space on the pan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, fresh cranberries can be used, but they will give a more tart flavor and add extra moisture to the dough. It helps to chop them into smaller pieces so they spread more evenly through each scone. You can also add a little extra sugar if you like a sweeter taste to balance the tartness.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough in advance and shape it into a round, then cover and store it in the fridge for several hours or overnight. When you are ready to bake, simply cut into wedges and place on the baking sheet. Chilled dough can help the scones keep their shape and bake up with a nice texture.

What is the best way to store leftover scones?

Keep the scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, you can store them in the fridge to keep them fresh a bit longer. Warm them slightly before serving to bring back their soft texture.

Can I freeze the scones before baking?

Yes, after cutting the dough into wedges, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a container or freezer bag. When ready to bake, place them on a baking sheet and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I get a nice golden top on my scones?

For a golden finish, brush the tops lightly with a bit of cream or milk before baking. This helps create a lightly browned surface and adds a nice finish.

Recipe Variations

• Add white chocolate chips for a sweet, creamy addition that pairs well with the orange flavor.
• Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a little crunch in each bite.
• A sprinkle of coarse sugar on top before baking for a light crunch and added sweetness.
• Swap the dried cranberries for raisins or dried cherries for a different flavor.
• Add a little almond extract along with the vanilla for a subtle nutty taste.
• Use lemon zest instead of orange zest for a bright citrus twist.
• Mix in a spoonful of plain yogurt or sour cream for a slightly richer texture.

More easy recipes to try

• Roasted maple almond recipe
• Chocolate chip oatmeal cookies
• Chocolate truffles with condensed milk