Festive Cranberry Orange Scones with Spiced Glaze

 

Ingredients:

For the Scones:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• Zest of one orange
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Spiced Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons orange juice (adjust for desired consistency)

Instructions:

For the Scones:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Stir in the dried cranberries and orange zest.

5. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly crumbly.

6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Using a sharp knife, cut the rectangle into smaller triangles or use a round cutter for traditional scones.

7. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.

8. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack.

For the Spiced Glaze:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.

2. Gradually add the orange juice, whisking continuously, until you achieve a smooth glaze. Adjust the consistency by adding more juice if needed.

3. Drizzle the spiced glaze over the cooled scones, allowing it to set for a few minutes.

4. Serve the festive cranberry orange scones with your favorite hot beverage and enjoy the delightful flavors of the holiday season!

These cranberry orange scones are a perfect addition to your Christmas morning or a cozy afternoon tea. The combination of tart cranberries, citrusy orange, and warm spices in the glaze makes them a festive and delicious treat for the holiday season.