Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones: A Delightful Treat
Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones are a delicious combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange flavors, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon tea. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about making these delightful scones, featuring a rich texture thanks to sour cream, and bursting with seasonal flavors. Whether you’re a baking novice or an experienced cook, you’ll find our detailed instructions easy to follow.
Part 1: The Ingredients You Need
Essential Ingredients
To make perfect Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
- 3/4 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Mix-Ins
For added flavor and texture, consider incorporating:
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped nuts

Part 2: Preparation Steps
Prepping the Ingredients
Start by gathering and measuring your ingredients. Make sure your butter is cold, as this will help the scones stay flaky.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed.
Part 3: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Cutting in the Butter
Add the cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Incorporating the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, along with the chopped cranberries and orange zest. Stir until just combined.

Part 4: Shaping the Scones
Forming the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick.
Cutting the Scones
Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into wedges. Alternatively, use a biscuit cutter for round scones. Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Part 5: Baking the Scones
Preparing for the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the tops of the scones with a little cream or an egg wash for a golden finish.
Baking Time
Bake the scones for 15-20 minutes or until they are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Part 6: Serving Suggestions
Serving Warm
Remove the scones from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, drizzled with honey or served with butter.
Pairing Ideas
Pair these scones with tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They also make a fantastic breakfast option alongside some fresh fruit.

Part 7: Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Leftover Scones
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Reheating Instructions
To enjoy your scones warm again, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
Part 8: Nutritional Information
Basic Nutritional Profile
Each scone approximately contains:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Protein: 4g
Customizing for Dietary Needs
For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also reduce sugar for a healthier version.
Part 9: Conclusion
Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones are a delightful treat that can brighten any morning or afternoon. With easy-to-follow instructions and a burst of flavor, they are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the process, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors to make this recipe your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to chop them and add them directly to the batter without thawing.
How do I troubleshoot my scones if they end up too dry?
If your scones are too dry, consider adding a bit more sour cream or milk to the dough. Ensure you don’t overmix, as this can also lead to dryness.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough, form it into scones, and then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt or buttermilk for a similar tangy flavor and moisture.
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Irresistible Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones 1x
Description
Delight in scones made with cranberry orange and sour cream Perfect as a snack or breakfast treat Easy recipe for a tasty homemade delight
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 200 calories
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Fat: 7 grams
- Saturated Fat: 7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 29 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Protein: 4 grams