Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy treat that combines zesty brightness with a tender crumb, you’re in for a real delight with this Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones Recipe. These scones strike a perfect balance between the tang of orange zest, the sweet-tart burst of dried cranberries, and the rich, buttery softness that sour cream brings to the dough. Whether it’s for a leisurely weekend breakfast or a special holiday gathering, these scones will become your new favorite to bake and share.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting ready to whip up these scones? You’ll be using simple, straightforward ingredients that each play an essential role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and look of the finished scones. From the fresh zing of orange zest to the creamy tang from sour cream, every component packs a punch.

• All-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives structure and a tender crumb to your scones.
• Granulated sugar: Adds the right touch of sweetness to balance the tart cranberries and tangy sour cream.
• Baking powder: Your rising hero, making sure the scones are light and fluffy rather than dense.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness to keep every bite interesting.
• Orange zest: Bursts of bright citrus flavor that bring those warm, sunny notes to every bite.
• Cold unsalted butter: Cut into cubes, butter creates flaky layers and a rich mouthfeel.
• Dried cranberries: Chewy, tart gems providing color contrast and that perfect fruity snap.
• Sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tanginess that keeps the scones tender and flavorful.
• Large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds richness for a more tender crumb.
• Fresh orange juice: Enhances citrus flavor and keeps the dough moist.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, subtly rounding out the citrus and tartness.
• Heavy cream or milk for brushing: Creates a golden top with a slight sheen.
• Coarse sugar for topping (optional): For a sparkly, crunchy finish that’s both beautiful and tasty.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step sets you up for an easy cleanup and ensures your scones won’t stick, keeping those perfect golden bottoms intact.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and the star ingredient—orange zest. These dry elements build the foundation of flavor and texture in your scones, while the orange zest infuses a fresh aroma that smells like sunshine.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Cut the cold unsalted butter cubes into the dry mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mix looks like coarse crumbs. This technique is crucial because those pea-sized butter pieces melt as the scones bake, creating flaky layers that make every bite melt in your mouth.

Step 4: Stir in the Dried Cranberries

Now fold in the dried cranberries, distributing little bursts of tartness throughout. These add beautiful pops of color and a chewy contrast to the tender crumb.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, egg, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract until silky smooth. This mixture not only adds moisture but also that subtle tang and warm sweet notes that make these scones uniquely irresistible.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Add the wet ingredients to your bowl of dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix or you risk a tough scone—just a few folds until the dough comes together nicely.

Step 7: Shape and Cut the Scones

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a circle about one inch thick. Cut this circle into 8 wedges to create perfect scone shapes. Transfer the wedges to your prepared baking sheet, keeping a little space between each.

Step 8: Brush and Sprinkle

Brush the tops with heavy cream or milk to encourage that pretty golden crust during baking. If you want an extra touch of sparkle and crunch, sprinkle coarse sugar over the top.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 16 to 18 minutes or until the scones turn a gorgeous golden brown and are cooked through. When they come out of the oven, resist the urge to gobble them immediately—allow them to cool slightly to firm up just enough for easy handling.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones Recipe

Garnishes

To highlight the fruity and citrus flavors, a light spread of butter or a drizzle of honey works beautifully on warm scones. Fresh orange segments or a dusting of powdered sugar can also elevate the presentation and flavor experience.

Side Dishes

These scones pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, making for a classic, comforting breakfast or afternoon snack. Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad or a creamy yogurt parfait to add contrast and keep the meal balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming brunch spread, stack the scones on a tiered platter surrounded by bowls of clotted cream, marmalade, and additional dried cranberries. You can even make mini scones from smaller wedges to create perfect handheld bites for parties or celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them tender and fresh without drying out.

Freezing

To enjoy these scones long after baking day, wrap each cooled scone individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze beautifully for up to three months without losing their delicious flavor or texture.

Reheating

When you’re ready for a quick treat, reheat frozen or stored scones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This gently revives the golden crust and soft crumb, making them taste freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh cranberries for dried?

Absolutely! If using fresh cranberries, chop them finely and consider adding a bit more sugar to balance their tartness. Fresh cranberries will add moisture, so watch the dough consistency and adjust if needed.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute that keeps your scones moist and tender with a similar tang. Just swap it in a 1:1 ratio for sour cream in the recipe.

Can I make these scones gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum for the best texture. Keep in mind the scones may be slightly denser but still wonderfully tasty.

Why is cold butter important?

Cold butter creates steam as it melts during baking, forming delicate layers in the dough and resulting in a flaky texture. Warm butter would blend too fully and make the scones dense.

How do I know when the scones are done baking?

Look for a golden brown top and slightly firm edges. You can also gently press a scone; it should spring back slightly if fully baked. Use a toothpick to check for wet dough inside if unsure.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have a beautiful Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones Recipe in your baking arsenal, there’s no excuse not to treat yourself and your loved ones to these tender, flavorful delights. They are straightforward to make yet fancy enough to impress at any breakfast or brunch. Trust me, once you try these scones fresh out of the oven with just a slather of butter, you’ll be hooked for life.

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