Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Glaze

If you’re looking for the perfect seasonal bake that feels homemade, smells incredible, and tastes like something you’d serve for brunch or gift to a neighbor, these cranberry orange scones are it. They’re the kind of recipe that instantly makes your kitchen smell like the holidays and your mornings feel special.

Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Glaze

If there was ever a flavor combo that just tastes like the holidays, it’s cranberry and orange. Sweet, tart, and a little zesty, these scones are everything you want with a hot cup of coffee on a chilly morning. They’re tender and crumbly in the best way, with just enough golden crunch on top to make you feel like you baked something straight out of a café. And that orange glaze? It’s the real showstopper.

I’ll be the first to tell you I’m not a baker. But when I follow my tried and true scone rules, they come out perfect every single time:

1. Ice cold butter. Don’t let it soften. Cold butter gives you those flaky layers.

2. Fresh orange zest and juice. It makes all the difference in that bright citrus flavor.

3. Don’t overmix. Just bring the dough together and let it be a little imperfect, that’s what makes them so good.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Scones:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 3 Tbsp sugar

• 1 Tbsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 Tbsp grated orange zest (from 1/2 an orange)

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold butter, cut into chunks

• 1 large egg, lightly beaten

• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

• 3/4 cup frozen cranberries

• 1 Tbsp coarse or raw sugar to sprinkle the top (optional)

Ingredients for the Orange Glaze:

• 2/3 cup powdered sugar

• 1 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice

• Pinch of orange zest

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and orange zest.

3. Cut in your cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.

4. Then pour your heavy cream into your dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. If the mixture just won't come together, you can add up to a full cup of heavy cream.

5. Fold in the frozen cranberries and shape the dough into a round disk about an inch thick. Cut into 8 triangles.

6. Place on your baking sheet, brush the tops with an egg wash, and sprinkle with coarse sugar if you like a little crunch.

7. Bake for 24 minutes or until golden brown and just set.

While the scones cool slightly, whisk together the orange glaze ingredients. Drizzle generously and try not to eat one before it sets.

The tart cranberries, that pop of fresh orange zest, and the silky glaze all come together for a flavor that feels both cozy and bright. Trust me, one bite and you’ll understand why these scones never last long around here.

These cranberry orange scones are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert and pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Save this one to make again and again through the holidays and beyond!

Enjoy!

-Lacey