Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Butter

Name: Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Butter
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 scones
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 tablespoon orange juice

Highlighted under: Dessert Recipe Collection

Enjoy the delightful combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange in these tender scones, perfectly paired with a creamy orange butter.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-16T18:03:19.040Z

These Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Butter are a delightful treat for breakfast or afternoon tea. The tartness of the cranberries complements the sweetness of the orange, creating a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and comforting.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors
Fluffy texture with a crisp golden exterior
Deliciously rich orange butter enhances every bite

      

The Perfect Breakfast Treat

Cranberry orange scones make for an ideal breakfast treat, combining the best of both worlds with their sweet and tart flavor profile. These scones are not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches. The vibrant orange zest adds a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with the dried cranberries.

Serve these scones alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea, and you'll have a delightful start to your day. Their fluffy interior and crisp exterior provide an inviting texture that complements the creamy orange butter perfectly.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best features of cranberry orange scones is their versatility. While this recipe highlights cranberries and orange, you can easily swap in other dried fruits such as blueberries or raisins, or even mix in some nuts for added crunch. Feel free to experiment with different citrus zests to find a flavor combination you love.

These scones are not just limited to breakfast; they make a fantastic snack or dessert option as well. Serve them at gatherings, holiday parties, or as a delightful afternoon treat. Their appealing appearance and delicious taste are sure to impress your guests.

Storage and Freshness Tips

To keep your cranberry orange scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, consider freezing them. Allow the baked scones to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, ensuring you always have a tasty treat on hand.

When you're ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This will help restore their delightful texture, making them taste freshly baked.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Scones

For the Scones

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1 tablespoon orange zest
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 large egg

For the Orange Butter

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 tablespoon orange juice

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start to ensure a smooth baking process.

Instructions

Instructions for Making Cranberry Orange Scones

Preheat the Oven

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

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the cranberries and orange zest.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Shape the Scones

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into 8 to 12 wedges and place on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Scones

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly.

Make the Orange Butter

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

Serve

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

Enjoy your freshly baked scones with a cup of tea or coffee!

Tips for Perfect Scones

Achieving the perfect scone texture can be tricky, but with a few simple tips, you can ensure success every time. First, remember to use cold butter and handle the dough as little as possible to keep the scones light and fluffy. Overworking the dough can lead to dense scones, so mix just until combined.

Another key element is the baking powder; ensure it is fresh for optimal rise. If your scones aren’t rising as expected, it might be time to replace your baking powder.

Pairing Suggestions

These cranberry orange scones are delightful on their own, but they can be enhanced with a variety of pairings. Consider serving them with a side of fresh fruit or a fruit compote for added sweetness and texture. A dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of jam can also elevate your scone experience.

For a beverage pairing, a citrus-infused tea or a light sparkling wine can complement the scone's flavors beautifully. Experiment with different combinations to find your ideal serving style!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, but you'll need to increase the sugar slightly, as fresh cranberries are more tart.

→ How do I store leftover scones?

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

→ Can I freeze the scones before baking?

Absolutely! Freeze the shaped scones on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1/2 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.