There’s something magical about the combination of tart cranberries and sweet oranges, especially when they come together in a warm scone fresh from the oven. As a passionate home cook and baking enthusiast, I’ve spent years perfecting this Cranberry Orange Maple Scones recipe, and each bite transports me to a cozy café on a Sunday morning. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen!
Why Make This Recipe
- Delightful Flavors: The tangy cranberries paired with the bright citrus notes of orange and the warm sweetness of maple syrup create a symphony of flavor that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even an afternoon snack, these scones bring versatility to your table, making them ideal for both casual family meals and festive gatherings.
- Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with antioxidants from cranberries and vitamin C from oranges, these scones offer a healthier indulgence compared to many store-bought options.
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes and bake time of 20 minutes, these scones are a breeze to whip up, making them great for unexpected guests.
- Personal Touch: I adore making these scones because they blend my love for baking with seasonal flavors, and they’ve become a staple in my family’s holiday traditions.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 8 scones
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Cooking Method: Baking
This recipe involves mixing dry and wet ingredients, cutting in butter for a flaky texture, and shaping the dough before baking until golden brown.
My Experience Making This Recipe
When I first tackled this recipe, I underestimated the importance of cold butter in achieving that perfect flaky texture. After a few trials, I learned to keep my butter chilled and even incorporate my ingredients quickly. The end result was not just tasty; they looked beautifully golden and fluffy, which felt like a significant triumph!
How to Make Cranberry Orange Maple Scones
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients, including all-purpose flour, baking powder, and sugar. Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Next, add the cranberries, orange zest, and a splash of maple syrup into the bowl. Gently mix in the milk until the dough comes together, and then turn it out onto a flour-dusted surface. Shape the dough into a circle, cut into wedges, and bake for about 20 minutes. You can expect a delightful aroma filling your kitchen during the baking process!
Expert Tips for Success
- Use Cold Ingredients: For flaky scones, use cold butter and cold milk. This helps the butter create steam during baking, which contributes to their fluffy texture.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overworking the dough can result in tough scones.
- Zest with Care: Use a microplane to zest the orange for an intense flavor without the bitterness of the white pith.
- Egg Wash for Shine: Brush the top of your scones with a little milk or an egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.
- Keep it Simple: If you don’t have cranberries, feel free to use other dried fruits like raisins or chopped apricots for different flavor profiles.
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Maple Scones
- Warm and Fresh: Serve the scones warm straight from the oven, perhaps with a pat of butter or a dollop of crème fraîche.
- Tea Time: Pair these scones with a lovely cup of tea or coffee for an indulgent afternoon break.
- Brunch Showstopper: Add them to your brunch spread alongside other goodies like quiche and fruit salads for a delightful assortment.
- Gift in a Jar: These scones also make a fantastic host/hostess gift. Package them in a decorative jar with a handwritten recipe card.
Storage and Reheating Guide
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze baked and cooled scones by placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free Adjustment: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to make these scones suitable for a gluten-free diet.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use almond or oat milk and a dairy-free butter substitute for a completely dairy-free treat.
- Flavored Extras: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch, or incorporate white chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm spice note that complements the other flavors.
Nutritional Highlights
Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which can support your immune health. The addition of orange zest not only enhances flavor but also contributes to your daily vitamin intake. Keep in mind that each scone is about 150 calories, making them a delightful indulgence in moderation.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Scones are Dry: If your scones come out dry, you may have overmixed the dough or used too much flour. Next time, try measuring your flour more carefully, and ensure you mix just until combined.
- Scones Spread Too Much: If they spread instead of rising, your butter may not have been cold enough. Keep the butter chilled, and even consider chilling the formed scones in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before baking.
- Flavor Lacking: For more flavor depth, ensure your orange zest is fresh, and consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to elevate the overall taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried ones?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but keep in mind they are much more tart. If using fresh, consider adding a little extra sugar to balance the acidity. -
What if I want sweeter scones?
You can increase the amount of sugar, or drizzle a maple syrup glaze over the scones after baking for added sweetness. -
How do I know when the scones are done?
Scones are ready when they are golden brown on the edges and firm to the touch in the center. You can also insert a toothpick; it should come out clean or with just a crumb. -
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and shape it, then wrap it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven cold.
Cranberry Orange Maple Scones
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully flaky scones with a perfect blend of tart cranberries, sweet oranges, and warm maple syrup.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 3/4 cup cold milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and sugar.
- Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the cranberries, orange zest, and maple syrup, mixing gently.
- Pour in the cold milk and mix until the dough comes together.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface, shape it into a circle, and cut into wedges.
- Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
Use cold ingredients for optimal flakiness. Don’t overmix the dough.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American