If you’re on the lookout for a bright, flavorful treat to brighten your mornings or add a touch of joy to your snack time, the Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones Recipe is an absolute winner. These scones bring together the perfect balance of tangy cranberries, zesty orange, and the rich creaminess of sour cream all wrapped in a tender, flaky pastry that’s irresistibly buttery. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, weekend brunch, or simply craving a cozy homemade delight, this recipe is straightforward enough for any home baker and delicious enough to become a new favorite. Get ready to enjoy scones that are simultaneously comforting and refreshingly vibrant!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples, but each plays an essential role in making your Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones Recipe a standout. From the citrusy zest to the creamy texture the sour cream imparts, you’ll find that every component contributes to a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and appearance.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that provides structure and tenderness.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Gives the scones their rise and fluffiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Enhances the leavening alongside baking powder for a light crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and rounds out the flavor.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest: Bursts of citrus fragrance and flavor that brighten the whole pastry.
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed: For flaky layers and rich taste; cold butter is key to the perfect texture.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a subtle tang that keeps every bite moist and tender.
- 1 large egg: Binds the dough and adds richness.
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries: The star ingredient that brings tartness and delightful chewiness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall aroma and mellows the citrus notes.
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (for brushing): Creates a golden-brown finish and a slight richness on top.
- Coarse sugar (optional topping): Adds sparkle and a satisfying crunch when baked.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and fresh orange zest. This combination not only ensures your scones will rise perfectly but also infuses that wonderful citrus scent as you work.
Step 2: Cut in the Butter
Next, add the cold, cubed butter to your dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your clean fingers, work the butter into the flour until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is vital because those little pockets of butter melt during baking, creating the signature flaky layers that make scones so delightful.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients Separately
In a small bowl, whisk the sour cream, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined. This smooth mixture will bring tenderness and moistness to the dough, preventing the scones from turning out dense or dry.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Gently
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with your dry ingredients. Mix gently and just until combined—overworking the dough can make the scones tough. Then fold in the cranberries, making sure they are evenly distributed without smashing them.
Step 5: Shape and Slice
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick circle. Using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, cut the circle into 8 even wedges. This traditional shape helps the scones bake evenly and makes them easy to handle once cooled.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Place the wedges on your lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each. Brush the tops with heavy cream for a gorgeous golden finish. For an extra special touch, sprinkle a bit of coarse sugar on top to add sparkle and crunch after baking.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake your scones in the preheated oven for 16 to 18 minutes. They should be golden brown and firm to the touch. Once baked, cool them slightly on a wire rack—this resting phase lets the scones finish setting without drying out.
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your scones to the next level. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant snowy look, while a thin drizzle of orange glaze brings an extra zing. Fresh orange slices or a sprig of rosemary beside the plate can also add a charming presentation touch.
Side Dishes
These scones pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Try serving them alongside a hot cup of tea, freshly brewed coffee, or even a rich hot chocolate for a cozy combo. For a fuller breakfast, a bowl of vanilla yogurt with honey and granola offers a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, arrange the scones on a tiered cake stand with fresh cranberries and orange slices scattered about. You can serve them with small bowls of clotted cream, honey butter, or fruit preserves to let guests customize their bites. Wrapping individual scones in parchment and tying with twine also makes for a wonderful homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store your scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They tend to lose some of their crispness but reheating them gently can bring back some freshness.
Freezing
These scones freeze exceptionally well! After baking and cooling completely, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to three months, which makes them perfect for prepping ahead and enjoying whenever you crave a homemade treat.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap the scones and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes. This method helps refresh their flaky texture and brings back that just-baked aroma better than a microwave.
FAQs
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh for the Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones Recipe?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries work very well and are more convenient year-round. They provide a chewy texture and sweet-tart flavor, though fresh cranberries offer a tangier pop if you prefer.
What can I substitute for sour cream if I don’t have any?
Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute that maintains the moisture and slight tanginess the scones need. Just use the same amount, and your scones will turn out beautifully.
Is it necessary to use cold butter for the scones?
Yes, cold butter is key to achieving the flaky, tender layers in scones. If the butter is too warm, it will blend too thoroughly and create a denser texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can try substituting a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend, but results might vary. Look for blends with xanthan gum for the best texture, and be mindful that gluten-free dough often requires gentler handling.
How do I make the scones more citrusy?
For an extra citrus boost, you can add a tablespoon of fresh orange juice to the wet ingredients or increase the orange zest slightly. Both options enhance the bright flavor without compromising the dough’s structure.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones Recipe that makes it a kitchen must-try. From the beautiful blend of tartness and creaminess to the golden, flaky texture, these scones are a joy to bake and eat. Once you try them, you might find yourself reaching for this recipe whenever you want a little homemade happiness. So go ahead, bake a batch, and let them fill your home with that wonderful citrus and cranberry aroma that feels like a warm hug in every bite!
Print
Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones are tender, flaky, and bursting with bright citrus flavor and tart cranberries. Perfect for breakfast or a delightful snack, they are easy to make with simple pantry ingredients and a touch of orange zest that complements the tangy sour cream. Golden brushed with heavy cream and optionally topped with coarse sugar, these scones offer a perfect balance of sweet and tart with a buttery texture.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
For Finishing
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (for brushing)
- Coarse sugar (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and orange zest until well combined, ensuring an even distribution of leavening agents and flavor.
- Cut in Butter: Add the cold unsalted butter cubes to the dry mixture and cut them in using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the texture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter throughout, which helps create a flaky scone texture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended, creating a rich, tangy moisture base for the dough.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined; avoid over-mixing to keep the scones tender. Then fold in the cranberries evenly through the dough.
- Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick circle. This thickness ensures even baking and flaky layers.
- Cut and Arrange: Cut the dough into 8 equal wedges like a pizza, and place the wedges spaced out on the prepared baking sheet to allow for spreading during baking.
- Brush and Add Topping: Brush the tops of each scone with heavy cream for a beautiful golden finish, and sprinkle with coarse sugar if using, to add a crunchy sweetness.
- Bake: Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 16 to 18 minutes or until they turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the scones to cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving, so they firm up and are easier to handle.
Notes
- For an extra citrus boost, add a tablespoon of fresh orange juice to the dough along with the orange zest.
- Use dried cranberries for convenience or fresh cranberries if you prefer a tangier bite and juicier texture.
- These scones freeze well. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to revive their fresh-baked texture.
