Cranberry Orange Maple Scones

Name: Cranberry Orange Maple Scones
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed; 1/2 cup heavy cream, plus additional for brushing; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon finely grated orange zest; 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, halved; 1 cup sifted powdered sugar (for glaze); 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (for glaze); 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream (for glaze)

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: November 6, 2025

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Introduction to Cranberry Orange Maple Scones

Imagine walking into your kitchen to the warm aroma of freshly baked Cranberry Orange Maple Scones. It’s a cozy scene, perfect for a busy morning or a lazy afternoon. These scones strike a lovely balance between sweet and tart, making them an ideal companion for your tea or coffee.

Whether you’re trying to impress guests or simply enjoy a delightful treat with your family, this recipe is your best friend. They’re quick to prepare, and who doesn’t love a homemade delight that brings joy in every bite?

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Maple Scones

These Cranberry Orange Maple Scones are not just easy to make, they’re a flavor explosion wrapped in buttery goodness. In under 40 minutes, you can pull off a batch that dazzles the senses. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert! Plus, if you have little ones or picky eaters, the sweet-tart cranberries make it a hit for everyone at the table. Say goodbye to boring baked goods!

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Maple Scones

Gathering the right supplies for your Cranberry Orange Maple Scones is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: The foundation of any scone. It gives structure and texture to your baked goods.
Granulated sugar: Added sweetness is essential for balancing the tartness of the cranberries.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the scones rise, contributing to that light and fluffy texture.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances flavors and balances the sweetness. It’s the secret ingredient that elevates your scones.
Unsalted butter: Chilled and cubed, butter adds richness and flakiness. Remember: cold butter is key!
Heavy cream: This creamy goodness makes your scones melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Large egg: Eggs provide moisture and help bind everything together, ensuring a cohesive dough.
Vanilla extract: A splash of pure vanilla enhances the flavor, bringing warmth to each bite.
Orange zest: This bright, fragrant addition gives your scones an enticing citrus twist that pairs perfectly with cranberries.
Cranberries: Fresh or frozen, these add bursts of tartness and a pop of color, transforming ordinary dough into something special.
Sifted powdered sugar: For glazing, it adds sweetness and a glossy finish that’s simply irresistible.
Pure maple syrup: A drizzle of this golden goodness provides a rich, distinct flavor in your glaze.
Milk or cream: Just a tablespoon or two to achieve the perfect glaze consistency that enhances the sweet topping.

To explore exact amounts, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything neatly organized for printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Cranberry Orange Maple Scones

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

First things first, let’s get that oven fired up! Preheat it to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will prevent your delicious Cranberry Orange Maple Scones from sticking and ensure they come out beautifully. Plus, it makes for easy cleanup – a win-win!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. This step is crucial, as it ensures even distribution of your dry ingredients, providing consistency in every bite of your scones. Imagine that fluffy texture waiting for you!

Step 3: Incorporate Butter

Now for the fun part! Take your cold, cubed butter and add it to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it looks like coarse crumbs. This is crucial for that flaky, tender texture that makes these scones a delight to bite into. The cold butter will create those lovely layers!

Step 4: Whisk Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, and freshly grated orange zest. This mixture not only adds moisture but also infuses flavor into your dough. Think of this as the sweet symphony that will harmonize all the ingredients together, ensuring each scone bursts with deliciousness.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients over the dry mixture and gently mix with a spatula until just combined. It’s important to be gentle—overmixing can lead to tough scones. You want the dough to come together nicely, embracing each ingredient without losing its tender character. It’s all about balance; think of it as a dance!

Step 6: Add Cranberries

Next, it’s time to fold in those lovely halved cranberries. Be cautious and fold them into the dough gently. It’s like tucking a treasure into a beautiful gift—each cranberry adds a burst of flavor that will surprise your taste buds. This careful folding will keep your scones tender and light.

Step 7: Shape and Cut the Dough

Turn your dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a circle about an inch thick. Using a sharp knife, cut it into 8 equal wedges. Think of it like slicing a delicious pie – even pieces ensure uniform baking. Place the wedges on your prepared baking sheet, ready for the oven!

Step 8: Bake the Scones

Transfer your scone wedges to the preheated oven and bake for 16-18 minutes. They’re ready when they’re golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them, and go by color and feel. The smell wafting through your kitchen will have everyone anticipating the tasty moments to come!

Step 9: Make the Glaze

While your scones cool, whip up that irresistible glaze! In a bowl, mix the sifted powdered sugar with pure maple syrup and just enough milk or cream to reach a pourable consistency. This glaze will enhance the flavor of your Cranberry Orange Maple Scones and add a delightful finish, making them look as fabulous as they taste!

Tips for Success

Always use cold butter for flakier scones; it’s a game-changer!
Don’t overwork the dough; mix gently to keep them light and airy.
Feel free to experiment with add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips!
If you’re short on time, prepare the dough ahead and freeze for later.
Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor, but frozen work too in a pinch.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: Use any size; two bowls are handy for dry and wet ingredients.
Whisk: A simple whisk works well, but a fork can do the job too.
Pastry cutter: This is best for cutting in butter, but you can use your fingers.
Baking sheet: Any baking sheet will suffice, lined with parchment for easy removal.
Sharp knife: Needed for cutting the dough into wedges; a pizza cutter is a fun alternative!

Variations on Cranberry Orange Maple Scones

Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and crunch.
Citrus Burst: Swap out some orange zest for lemon or lime zest to change up the flavor profile. The zing will awaken your taste buds!
Dried Fruit Medley: Try mixing in raisins or dried cherries with cranberries for a fruity twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these scones suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Vegan-Friendly: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg for a plant-based version.
Sweet & Spicy: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger to the dry ingredients for an exciting flavor dimension.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Cranberry Orange Maple Scones with a cup of steaming herbal tea or rich coffee for a delightful experience.
Add a dollop of clotted cream or mascarpone cheese for a luxurious touch.
For a festive feel, serve alongside fresh fruit or a small fruit compote.
Arrange scones on a beautiful platter and dust with extra powdered sugar for a charming presentation.
Enjoy warm for breakfast or as an afternoon treat – they’re perfect anytime!

FAQs about Cranberry Orange Maple Scones

As I’ve shared this wonderful recipe for Cranberry Orange Maple Scones, I’ve come across a few common questions. Let’s dive into them!

Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. They may even be a little easier to find, especially during off-seasons. Just make sure to halve them before adding to your dough.

How can I store leftover scones?

Once they’re cooled, place your scones in an airtight container and store them at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer bag.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Prepare your dough and shape it into wedges, then refrigerate up to one day ahead. When you’re ready to bake, just follow the instructions for baking straight from the fridge—maybe add a couple extra minutes to the time.

What should I do if my scones are too dry?

If you find that your Cranberry Orange Maple Scones are dry, it might be due to overmixing or measuring the flour too densely. Next time, use a lighter hand and gently fold the dough. Adding a splash more cream can help moisten a little too!

Can I substitute any ingredients?

Of course! You can swap the heavy cream for buttermilk or coconut cream for a plant-based option. For a lower sugar version, reduce the sugar in both the dough and glaze to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate to experiment!

Final Thoughts

Creating these Cranberry Orange Maple Scones brings joy and a sense of accomplishment. Each time I make them, I’m reminded of the beauty of simple ingredients coming together in harmony. Savoring a warm scone, drizzled with glaze, is a moment of pure bliss. Whether sharing them with family or enjoying a quiet moment alone, these scones make any day feel special. They’re not just a treat; they’re a warm hug on a plate. So grab your ingredients and let the delightful baking adventure begin—your kitchen deserves this delicious celebration!