Scones are one of the most delightful treats you can enjoy, whether with a cup of tea or just as a satisfying snack. And when you add the sweet, tangy flavor of cranberry and orange with a rich white chocolate drizzle, you elevate the classic scone to a whole new level. This Cranberry Orange Scone with White Chocolate Drizzle recipe is a perfect combination of buttery, flaky texture with bursts of fresh citrus and tart cranberries, all topped with a decadent melted white chocolate drizzle. It’s a delightful treat that looks and tastes just like something from a high-end bakery. Let’s dive into the details of how to make these amazing scones!
What Is Cranberry Orange Scones with White Chocolate Drizzle?
A Cranberry Orange Scone is a traditional British baked good that has been adapted in many different ways across cultures. The light, flaky texture and slight sweetness of scones make them ideal for pairing with afternoon tea or as a breakfast treat. When combined with cranberries and orange, the scone has a citrusy, tart balance, which enhances the buttery richness of the dough. The white chocolate drizzle on top adds a smooth, sweet finish that perfectly complements the flavors. This version is the perfect combination of fresh fruit, sweet chocolate, and a buttery base.
The Origin of Cranberry Orange Scones
Scones themselves originated in Scotland and later became popular across the British Isles. The original scones were typically made with just flour, butter, milk, and sugar. Over the centuries, this humble recipe has evolved, and fruit scones, particularly those with berries like cranberries or currants, became common variations. The addition of orange zest adds a fresh twist, making it a more vibrant, aromatic version of the classic. The white chocolate drizzle is a modern touch that adds a new dimension of sweetness, making these scones feel like a luxurious treat.
Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Scones with White Chocolate Drizzle
For the scones:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour – This forms the base of your scone dough and provides the structure.
- ⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the scone dough.
- 1 Tbsp baking powder – Helps the scones rise, making them light and fluffy.
- ½ tsp salt – Enhances the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
- ½ cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed – The cold butter is key to getting that flaky texture.
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream (plus extra for brushing) – This is the liquid that makes the dough rich and moist.
- 1 large egg – Helps bind the dough together and provides richness.
- 1 Tbsp orange zest (about 1 large orange) – Adds a vibrant citrus flavor.
- 2 Tbsp orange juice (freshly squeezed) – Complements the orange zest and adds moisture to the dough.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the scones.
- ¾ cup (90g) fresh or frozen cranberries (halved if large) – Adds a tangy, tart flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the chocolate drizzle.
For the white chocolate drizzle:
- ½ cup (85g) white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate – The key ingredient for the sweet, creamy drizzle.
- 1 tsp coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother drizzle) – Helps the white chocolate melt smoothly and drizzle easily.
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
1. Preheat & Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the scones don’t stick while baking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This will help ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
3. Cut in the Butter:
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The key to flaky scones is keeping the butter in pea-sized pieces.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients & Add Cranberries:
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir to combine. Be careful not to overmix—just stir until the dough comes together. Fold in the cranberries, but don’t overwork the dough.
6. Shape the Scones:
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead the dough 2–3 times to bring it together. Pat the dough into an 8-inch circle that’s about 1 inch thick. Using a sharp knife or a scone cutter, cut the dough into 8 wedges. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Brush the tops of the scones with a little extra heavy cream for a golden finish.
7. Bake the Scones:
Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until they are golden brown on top. Allow them to cool on a wire rack.
8. Make the White Chocolate Drizzle:
While the scones are cooling, melt the white chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave. Add coconut oil or shortening for a smoother texture. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled scones using a spoon or a piping bag for precision.
Variations: Cranberry Orange Scones
While the base recipe for Cranberry Orange Scones with White Chocolate Drizzle is already delicious, here are a few variations to suit different tastes:
- Add Nuts: Add chopped pecans or almonds to the dough for a bit of crunch and texture. About ¼ cup of nuts will do the trick.
- Sparkle Finish: Before baking, sprinkle the tops of the scones with a little coarse sugar. This adds a beautiful sparkle and extra sweetness.
- Other Fruits: If cranberries aren’t in season, you can swap them out for blueberries, cherries, or even raisins.
FAQs About Cranberry Orange Scones
1. Can I use frozen cranberries for Cranberry Orange Scones?
Yes! Frozen cranberries work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to fold them into the dough without thawing to avoid excess moisture.
2. Can I substitute heavy cream with something else?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, but it may slightly affect the scone’s richness.
3. How do I store these scones?
Store your scones at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container. They’ll last up to 5 days if kept in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes.
4. Can I freeze the unbaked dough?
Yes, you can freeze the scone dough before baking. Shape the dough into wedges, freeze on a baking sheet, and then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 3-5 minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion: Cranberry Orange Scones
These Cranberry Orange Scones with White Chocolate Drizzle are a perfect treat for any occasion, from breakfast to afternoon tea. The buttery, flaky scones, combined with the tart cranberries and zesty orange, offer a delightful balance of flavors, while the sweet white chocolate drizzle takes them to the next level of indulgence. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply to enjoy with your morning coffee, these scones are sure to impress. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and bake up a batch of these heavenly scones. You won’t regret it!
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Cranberry Orange Scones with White Chocolate Drizzle: A Delicious Bakery-Style Recipe
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 8 scones 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A Cranberry Orange Scone is a traditional British baked good that has been adapted in many different ways across cultures. The light, flaky texture and slight sweetness of scones make them ideal for pairing with afternoon tea or as a breakfast treat. When combined with cranberries and orange, the scone has a citrusy, tart balance, which enhances the buttery richness of the dough. The white chocolate drizzle on top adds a smooth, sweet finish that perfectly complements the flavors. This version is the perfect combination of fresh fruit, sweet chocolate, and a buttery base.
Ingredients
For the scones:
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar
1 Tbsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
½ cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
½ cup (120ml) heavy cream (plus extra for brushing)
1 large egg
1 Tbsp orange zest (about 1 large orange)
2 Tbsp orange juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tsp vanilla extract
¾ cup (90g) fresh or frozen cranberries (halved if large)
For the white chocolate drizzle:
½ cup (85g) white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
1 tsp coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother drizzle)
Instructions
1. Preheat & prepare:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the butter:
Add the cold, cubed butter.
Cut it in with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs (pea-sized pieces of butter are perfect).
4. Mix wet ingredients:
In a small bowl, whisk together cream, egg, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla.
5. Combine & add cranberries:
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
Stir gently until just combined — don’t overmix.
Fold in the cranberries (the dough will be slightly sticky).
6. Shape the scones:
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead 2–3 times.
Pat into an 8-inch circle about 1 inch thick.
Cut into 8 wedges.
Place on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
Brush the tops with a little heavy cream.
7. Bake:
Bake for 15–18 minutes, until golden brown on top.
Let cool on a wire rack.
8. Make the white chocolate drizzle:
Melt white chocolate (and coconut oil, if using) in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, or microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring in between.
Drizzle over cooled scones with a spoon or piping bag.
Notes
These Cranberry Orange Scones with White Chocolate Drizzle are delightful for breakfast or afternoon tea. Serve them slightly warm for the best flavor, and pair with a cup of coffee or Earl Grey tea for a cozy treat!
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Cranberry Orange Scone Recipe, Orange Cranberry Scones, Scones with Cranberry and Orange, White Chocolate Cranberry Scones
