Introduction
If you’re looking to elevate your tea time or brunch spread, these Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones are your ticket to bakery-worthy bliss right at home. With their tender, flaky texture and the delightful burst of tart cranberries, complemented by the bright zest of fresh orange, these scones are truly a crowd-pleaser. Perfectly paired with a cup of steaming tea or coffee, they are a delicious way to welcome the day or impress your guests at your next gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped (or dried cranberries)
- 1 egg wash (1 egg whisked with a tablespoon of water)
- Coarse sugar for sprinkling
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes
Yield: 8 scones
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined, creating a fluffy base for your scones.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs, almost like sandy pebbles.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, egg, and the fragrant orange zest until thoroughly mixed.
- Pour the sour cream mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough scones.
- Gently fold in the chopped cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently just enough to bring the dough together, being careful not to overhandle it.
- Pat the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick. Use a sharp knife to cut it into wedges, or use a round cutter to create individual scone shapes.
- Carefully place the scones on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the egg wash for a glossy finish and sprinkle with coarse sugar for that extra touch of sweetness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are a lovely golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the scones to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving, giving them a moment to set and become perfect for a delightful bite!
Notes or Tips
For the loveliest flavor, make sure to use fresh cranberries if they’re in season. If you can’t find them, dried cranberries will work perfectly as well! Additionally, feel free to experiment with other citrus zests, like lemon or lime, for a different twist. Pair these scones with a dollop of clotted cream or a smear of butter for a truly decadent treat!
Cooking Techniques
When making scones, the key is to keep your ingredients cold, especially the butter. This helps create those beautiful flaky layers we all love. Use a light touch when mixing—scones are best when handled gently. Remember, a little bit of crumbly texture is perfect!
FAQ
Can I freeze these scones?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked scones. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a resealable bag. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in this recipe. It will add a similar tanginess and moisture.
Conclusion
These Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones are more than just a delightful treat; they’re a celebration of flavors that’s sure to bring joy to any occasion. The sweet-tart cranberries and the zesty freshness of orange zest combine to create an unforgettable experience that’s simple enough to whip up any day of the week. So grab your apron and enjoy baking these scrumptious scones!