Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones: A Fluffy and Flavorful Breakfast Treat

I remember the time I decided to bake scones for the first time. The recipe seemed simple enough, but I made one crucial mistake: my baking powder had expired. The result? Scones that were flatter than pancakes and not nearly as appetizing. It was a humbling lesson in the importance of fresh ingredients and precise baking techniques. Thankfully, this Cranberry Orange Scones recipe ensures you’ll never experience a flat scone disaster again. With its foolproof steps and vibrant flavor, these scones are a perfect balance of tart cranberries, sweet orange zest, and buttery goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Scones

These scones are more than just a breakfast staple—they’re a delightful treat that brings warmth and happiness to any table. Here’s why you’ll love them:

• Fluffy and Tender Texture: Thanks to sour cream and cold butter, these scones turn out flaky and soft every time.
• Bright and Zesty Flavor: The combination of orange zest and cranberries adds a refreshing burst of flavor to each bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, these scones are versatile and always welcome.
• Customizable: From substituting cranberries with other fruits to adding a drizzle of orange glaze, you can make this recipe your own.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20–22 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 42 minutes
• Yield: Makes 8 scones

Ingredients of Cranberry Orange Scones

Dry Ingredients

• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• ⅔ cup sweetened dried cranberries
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg (for the dough)
• 1½ tablespoons grated fresh orange zest
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For Topping

• 1 large egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon water
• 3 tablespoons sliced almonds, roughly broken
• 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar (optional)

Optional Orange Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated orange zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. Preheating ensures the scones bake evenly and develop their characteristic golden crust.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking aerates the ingredients and evenly distributes the leavening agents, ensuring the scones rise beautifully.

Cut in the Butter

Using a pastry blender or two forks, cut the cold, cubed butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is essential for creating a flaky texture, as the small butter pieces melt during baking, leaving pockets of air. Stir in the dried cranberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.

Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, heavy cream, egg, orange zest, and vanilla extract. This mixture not only adds moisture but also enhances the scones’ flavor profile with its creamy and citrusy notes.

Combine the Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. The dough should come together without overmixing—it’s okay if it’s slightly sticky, as this prevents the scones from becoming tough.

Shape the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together. Pat the dough into an 8-inch circle, about 1 inch thick. Using a sharp knife, cut the circle into 8 equal wedges, like slicing a pizza.

Prepare for Baking

Place the scone wedges onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least 3 inches apart to allow for spreading.

Egg Wash and Topping

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush the top of each scone with the egg wash, then sprinkle with broken sliced almonds and turbinado sugar for added crunch and sweetness.

Bake the Scones

Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 20–22 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Optional Orange Glaze

While the scones cool, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange zest, and fresh orange juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the warm scones for an extra layer of citrusy sweetness.

Tips for Success

Keep Ingredients Cold

Cold butter and dairy ingredients are crucial for creating flaky, tender scones. Avoid letting them sit out too long before mixing.

Avoid Overmixing

Overworking the dough can lead to dense, tough scones. Mix just until the ingredients come together.

Experiment with Cranberries

While this recipe uses dried cranberries for sweetness, you can substitute fresh or frozen cranberries for a tart twist. If using frozen, add them directly to the dough without thawing to prevent excess moisture.

Nutritional Information (Per Scone)

• Calories: ~270 kcal
• Total Fat: ~15g
• Saturated Fat: ~8g
• Cholesterol: ~55mg
• Sodium: ~210mg
• Total Carbohydrates: ~32g
• Dietary Fiber: ~1g
• Sugars: ~8g
• Protein: ~4g

Why You Should Bake These Cranberry Orange Scones Today

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a lazy weekend breakfast, an elegant brunch, or a thoughtful homemade gift, these scones are versatile and always a hit. Their tender crumb and bright flavor make them a standout addition to any table.

A Recipe That Always Delivers

Unlike other baked goods that can be temperamental, this recipe is designed to be foolproof. The combination of baking powder, baking soda, and sour cream ensures the scones rise beautifully, while the orange zest and cranberries add vibrant flavor.

A Fun Baking Project

Baking these scones is as enjoyable as eating them. From cutting in the butter to shaping the dough, the process is therapeutic and rewarding. Plus, your kitchen will be filled with the warm, citrusy aroma of fresh scones.

Serving Suggestions

• With Coffee or Tea: These scones pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or your favorite tea blend.
• As a Brunch Star: Serve alongside fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, and bacon for a complete brunch spread.
• With Butter or Jam: Enjoy them plain or with a dollop of butter, orange marmalade, or clotted cream.

Why Wait? Make Them Today!

A Recipe for All Skill Levels
No matter where you are on your baking journey, these Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones are a recipe you can confidently tackle. For seasoned bakers, the process offers the joy of perfecting flaky, golden scones with just the right balance of flavors. For beginners, the clear instructions and simple ingredients make this an ideal starting point. No complicated techniques or specialty tools are required—just a mixing bowl, a baking sheet, and a love for delicious homemade treats.

Fast and Easy with Incredible Results
Who says homemade baked goods have to take hours? This recipe comes together in under an hour, from start to finish. The steps are straightforward: mix, shape, bake, and enjoy. Even with the optional orange glaze, these scones remain a quick and manageable bake. The short prep and cooking time make them perfect for a last-minute brunch, a surprise weekend treat, or even a weekday indulgence.

Perfect for Any Time of Day
These scones aren’t just for breakfast. While they shine as a morning treat paired with coffee or tea, they’re equally delightful as an afternoon snack or a light dessert. Need something to bring to a brunch potluck or afternoon tea gathering? These scones fit the bill perfectly. Their versatility ensures they’ll be a hit no matter the occasion.

A Crowd-Pleasing Treat
Baking for others is one of the simplest ways to spread joy, and these scones never fail to impress. They look bakery-worthy with their golden crust and sprinkling of almonds and sugar, yet they’re made with everyday ingredients you likely already have at home. Bring them to a gathering, and watch as they disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!”

Customizable to Your Taste
This recipe is a fantastic base for experimenting with flavors. Prefer blueberries instead of cranberries? Swap them in! Want a bit more texture? Add chopped nuts or a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top. You can even play with spices, such as adding a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom, to complement the citrusy notes. With this recipe, the possibilities are endless, and every variation is bound to be a hit.

Homemade Goodness in Every Bite
What sets these scones apart is the homemade touch. Unlike store-bought options, these scones are free from preservatives and overly sweet glazes. You control the quality of ingredients, ensuring a fresh and wholesome treat every time. Plus, the love and care you put into baking them add a special something that no store-bought alternative can replicate.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait
So, why wait to bake these Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones? They’re quick, foolproof, and bursting with flavors that will leave everyone reaching for another. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a cozy morning at home, or simply to satisfy a craving, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and take a little time for yourself—or for those you love—to enjoy the magic of baking. The reward? A warm, flaky scone that tastes as good as it looks. Your taste buds—and anyone lucky enough to share—will thank you!

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