These cranberry orange sourdough scones are a delicious treat, bursting with fruity flavors. The tangy cranberries mix perfectly with zesty orange for a delightful snack!
They are great for breakfast or as a cozy afternoon pick-me-up. I love enjoying them warm with a pat of butter. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for these! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your scones. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try whole wheat flour, but expect a denser texture. A gluten-free blend can also work if needed!
Sourdough Starter: You can use either active or discard sourdough starter. If you don’t have sourdough starter, 1/2 cup plain yogurt can be a great substitute, lending a similar tanginess.
Dried Cranberries: A classic pairing with orange, but feel free to swap with other dried fruits like raisins, cherries, or even chocolate chips for a sweeter twist!
Orange Zest: Fresh zest from a real orange adds vibrant flavor. If you’re out of oranges, lemon or lime zest can add a refreshing spin, just adjust the sweetness slightly to balance the tanginess.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for the best control over the saltiness. For a dairy-free option, coconut oil can be used instead, but the flavor will change slightly!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Fluffy Scones?
The trick to making scones fluffy is all in the mixing and baking! Here are some steps to help you:
- Keep your butter cold! Cold butter creates steam when baking, which results in a fluffier texture.
- Don’t overwork the dough. Gently mix until just combined. Over-mixing will make tough scones.
- Pat or roll the dough lightly. A thickness of 1 to 1.5 inches keeps them nice and tall.
- Chill the scones for 10-15 mins before baking. This helps them rise better in the oven.
- Ensure your oven is preheated. A high initial temperature creates that perfect rise in the first few minutes of baking.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have lovely scones that are light and fluffy every time!
Cranberry Orange Sourdough Scones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sourdough starter (active or discard)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/3 cup buttermilk (plus more if needed)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (from 1 orange)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- Optional: coarse sugar for sprinkling on top
How Much Time Will You Need?
In total, you will need about 30 minutes to prepare and bake the scones. This includes about 10 minutes for prep and 18-22 minutes for baking. Plus, an extra few minutes for cooling before serving! It’s a quick recipe that brings delicious flavors to your kitchen without much wait.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is important, so the scones bake evenly. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Mixing Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Use a whisk to mix them well, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
3. Adding Butter:
Now, take your cold, cubed butter and add it to the bowl. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend the butter into the flour mixture. You want it to look like coarse crumbs, with some pea-sized pieces of butter still visible. This will help make your scones flaky!
4. Stirring in Flavors:
Next, fold in the dried cranberries and orange zest, mixing gently to make sure they’re evenly spread throughout the dough.
5. Mixing Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the sourdough starter, egg, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth. This is where the magic happens, so give it a good mix!
6. Combining Wet and Dry:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until the dough just comes together. If it feels too dry, add a bit more buttermilk, one tablespoon at a time, until it holds together.
7. Shaping the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently just a few times to bring it all together. Then, pat or roll the dough into a circle about 8 inches in diameter and 1 to 1.5 inches thick.
8. Cutting the Scones:
Using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, cut the circle into 6 wedges. This will give you classic scone shapes. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; rustic shapes are all part of the charm!
9. Baking the Scones:
Transfer your wedges carefully to the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them. If you like, sprinkle the tops with coarse sugar to add extra crunch and sweetness.
10. Baking Time:
Pop the scones into your preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re ready when they turn golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
11. Finishing Touch:
When they’re done, take them out and let cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Serve them warm or at room temperature, paired with butter, clotted cream, or your favorite jam. Enjoy your delicious, tangy cranberry orange sourdough scones with a cup of tea or your favorite hot beverage!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture might be denser. For the best results, consider using a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour (e.g., 50/50) to maintain a lighter texture.
What If My Scones Are Too Dry?
If the dough feels too dry or crumbly, simply add more buttermilk, one tablespoon at a time, until it holds together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your scones tough.
How Should I Store Leftover Scones?
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a resealable bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Can I Substitute Fresh Cranberries for Dried Ones?
While fresh cranberries can be used, they are much more tart. If you opt for fresh, consider adding a bit of extra sugar to balance the flavors, or use them in combination with some sweetness to your taste!
