Orange Cranberry Scones with Cinnamon Citrus Glaze Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines sharp citrus notes with tart bursts of fruit, you’ve got to try these Orange Cranberry Scones with Cinnamon Citrus Glaze. Imagine biting into a buttery, flaky scone where vibrant orange zest and chewy dried cranberries dance together, all topped off with a sweet glaze touched by warming cinnamon. It’s a perfect companion for your morning coffee or an afternoon tea, bringing a sunny splash of flavor that feels both fresh and comforting in every bite.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting these Orange Cranberry Scones with Cinnamon Citrus Glaze just right starts with a handful of simple, quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and that beautiful golden color we love in scones.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the scones, giving structure while keeping them tender.
• 1 tbsp baking powder: Ensures your scones rise perfectly, light and fluffy inside.
• ¼ cup sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the tart cranberries.
• 6 tbsp cold butter, cubed: The secret to flaky layers and rich flavor; make sure it’s cold for best results.
• Zest of 1 orange: Brings a bright, citrusy aroma that makes these scones truly sing.
• ½ cup dried cranberries: Provide bursts of tartness that contrast beautifully with the sweet glaze.
• ⅔ cup milk or cream: Adds moisture while contributing to a tender crumb.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor and rounds out the citrus notes.
• Glaze: ½ cup powdered sugar: For a smooth, sweet finish.
• Glaze: ½ tsp cinnamon: Offers a warm, spiced undertone that complements the citrus.
• Glaze: 2–3 tbsp orange juice: Brings the glaze to life with fresh citrus tang.

How to Make Orange Cranberry Scones with Cinnamon Citrus Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Start by combining the flour, baking powder, and sugar in a large mixing bowl. This blend forms the foundation, where the baking powder will give your scones their signature rise, and the sugar will add just the right amount of sweetness.

Step 2: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to your flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This process is essential because the small butter pockets melt during baking, creating beautifully flaky layers.

Step 3: Add Orange Zest and Cranberries

Sprinkle in the zest of one orange and the dried cranberries. The zest infuses the dough with an irresistible citrus aroma, while the cranberries provide tart pops of flavor and a lovely contrast in texture.

Step 4: Mix in Wet Ingredients

Pour in the milk or cream and vanilla extract. Gently stir everything together until just combined; be careful not to overwork the dough to keep your scones light and tender.

Step 5: Shape and Cut the Scones

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and pat it into a circle roughly 7–8 inches in diameter. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 even wedges—it’ll look just like a pie ready to bake.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 18 minutes until the scones are golden and puffed with a tender crumb.

Step 7: Whisk and Drizzle the Cinnamon Citrus Glaze

While the scones are still warm, whisk together powdered sugar, cinnamon, and orange juice until smooth. Drizzle this glaze generously over the scones so it soaks into every crumb, adding a hit of sweetness and warming spice that truly finishes the dish.

How to Serve Orange Cranberry Scones with Cinnamon Citrus Glaze

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra orange zest or whole dried cranberries on top of the glaze after it sets for an inviting pop of color and texture. For a festive touch, add a few small mint leaves or a light dusting of cinnamon powder right before serving.

Side Dishes

These scones shine alongside a cozy cup of tea or coffee, but pairing them with fresh fruit salad or creamy yogurt elevates the experience, creating a well-rounded breakfast or brunch that feels both indulgent and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these Orange Cranberry Scones with Cinnamon Citrus Glaze on a rustic wooden board or charming vintage plates for a warm, welcoming vibe. Try stacking them with fresh whipped cream and a drizzle of honey for a delightful afternoon treat or brunch centerpiece your guests will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store the scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them tender without drying out, though they’re best enjoyed fresh for full flavor and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze these scones before glazing for up to two months. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature and drizzle your cinnamon citrus glaze fresh for best results.

Reheating

Warm leftover scones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes to revive their flakiness. Avoid the microwave as it tends to make them chewy. Add your glaze after warming to keep the flavors bright and fresh.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh cranberries for dried?

While fresh cranberries add a lovely tartness, they contain more moisture and may change the dough’s consistency. If using fresh, consider reducing the milk slightly and adding a bit more flour to maintain the scone texture.

Is it possible to make these scones vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use your favorite non-dairy milk, like almond or oat milk. For the glaze, make sure to use powdered sugar without bone char and orange juice for sweetness and flavor.

How can I make these scones less sweet?

Reducing the sugar in both the dough and glaze slightly will tone down the sweetness without sacrificing flavor. The tartness of the cranberries and citrus zest helps balance sweetness, so aim for about 2 tablespoons of sugar in the dough and adjust the glaze to your taste.

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Yes! Chopped pecans or walnuts add wonderful crunch and depth. Stir about ¼ cup of your favorite nuts into the dough along with the cranberries and orange zest for a lovely texture contrast.

What’s the best way to zest an orange?

Use a microplane or fine grater to zest only the colored part of the orange peel, avoiding the white pith underneath, which can be bitter. Freshly grated zest delivers the brightest, most aromatic flavor.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend these Orange Cranberry Scones with Cinnamon Citrus Glaze enough—they’re a total game-changer for your baking repertoire. Whether it’s a cozy fall morning or a special weekend treat, these scones brighten your day with every buttery, citrus-spiced bite. Go ahead, give this recipe a whirl—you’ll be sharing it with friends before you know it!