Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones

Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones : scones are a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even afternoon tea. These little baked goodies are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. One special recipe that stands out is the Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones. With the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, these scones will leave your taste buds craving more. Whether you are serving them to guests or enjoying them yourself, these scones are sure to impress.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are many reasons to love Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones. Firstly, they are packed with flavor. The tartness of dried cranberries combined with the bright citrus notes of fresh orange zest creates a delightful taste sensation. The addition of sour cream gives the scones a tender and flaky texture, making them moist and satisfying.

Another reason this recipe is a favorite is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a batch of scones in no time. This makes it perfect for busy mornings or unexpected guests. Plus, the aroma of freshly baked scones wafting through your home is sure to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Finally, these scones are versatile. You can serve them plain, with butter, or even with a dollop of cream. They also make a lovely addition to any brunch or tea party. So, let’s dive into how you can prepare these delicious scones.

How to Prepare Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones

Preparing these scones is simple and enjoyable. Follow the steps below to create your own batch of Cranberry Orange Sour Cream 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
• Zest from 1 orange
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Egg wash (1 egg beaten with a splash of milk) for brushing on top

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your scones bake evenly.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir these ingredients together until well mixed.
3. Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Take your time with this step; the cold butter is what will make your scones flaky.
4. Add Cranberries and Zest: Next, gently fold in the dried cranberries and orange zest. This mix will add a delightful sweetness and citrus flavor to the scones.
5. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture. Stir with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
7. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, gently knead the dough a few times until it comes together. Pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick.
8. Cut the Scones: Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the dough into 8 wedges. Transfer the wedges to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the scones with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden color when baked.
10. Bake: Place the scones in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones

Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones are delicious on their own, but there are many ways to enjoy them. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• With Butter: A simple spread of butter can enhance the flavor of your scones. Opt for salted or unsalted butter based on your preference.
• With Cream: A dollop of whipped cream or clotted cream can elevate your scone experience, making them feel even more indulgent.
• With Jam: Serve the scones with your favorite jam. Raspberry or citrus preserves can pair beautifully with the tangy cranberry and orange flavors.
• With Tea: Enjoy these scones with a hot cup of tea or coffee. They make for a perfect afternoon snack alongside your favorite beverage.

How to Store Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones

If you have any leftover scones, proper storage will help keep them fresh. Here are some easy tips:

• Storing at Room Temperature: Place the scones in an airtight container and store them at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about 2-3 days.
• Refrigerating: If you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure they are in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
• Freezing: For even longer storage, you can freeze the scones. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes.

Tips for Preparing Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones

To ensure your scones are perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter and sour cream are cold. This is key to achieving a flaky texture in your scones.
• Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when mixing the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough scones.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer your scones sweeter, feel free to add a little more sugar. You can taste the dough and adjust as needed.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to get creative with your scones! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even other dried fruits.

Variations

Variations can keep your scone recipe exciting. Here are a few ideas:

• Chocolate Chip Cranberry Scones: Add in semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet twist.
• Lemon Cranberry Scones: Replace the orange zest with lemon zest for a lighter flavor.
• Spiced Scones: Add in some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warming spice flavor, perfect for fall or winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
   Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but you may want to increase the sugar in the recipe as fresh cranberries are much more tart.
2. What can I substitute for sour cream?
   You can substitute with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk if you don’t have sour cream on hand. Both will work well.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to wrap it tightly. When ready to bake, cut the scones and bake as directed.

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones are a tasty, simple treat that everyone will love. With their perfect blend of flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you serve them at brunch, with tea, or simply enjoy them as a snack, these scones will bring joy to your kitchen. Try making them today and see how quickly they disappear!