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Flaky Orange Cranberry Scones: 8 Amazing Secrets

Orange Cranberry Scones

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Bake flaky, flavorful Orange Cranberry Scones with us! These treats capture bright citrus notes and tart cranberries, perfect for breakfast or gifting.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • Zest of 1 large orange
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream, cold
  • 1 large egg (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. This helps create flakiness.
  4. Stir in the dried cranberries and orange zest until evenly distributed.
  5. Make a well in the center and pour in the cold heavy cream. Mix gently with a fork until just combined. Do not overmix; the dough will be shaggy.
  6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat or knead it just a few times to bring it together.
  7. Pat the dough into a 3/4-inch thick circle or rectangle. Cut into 8 wedges or desired shapes.
  8. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet.
  9. In a small bowl, whisk the egg and milk together for the egg wash. Brush the tops of the scones lightly with the wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
  10. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  11. Let the scones cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Keep your butter and cream very cold for the flakiest texture.
  • Handle the dough minimally; overworking develops gluten, resulting in tough scones.
  • You can add a simple orange glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of orange juice if you prefer a sweeter finish.
  • These freeze well! Bake them, cool completely, then store them in an airtight container. Reheat briefly in the oven when ready to enjoy.

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