Description
These cranberry orange scones are soft, buttery, and bursting with bright citrus and tart cranberry flavor. Inspired by the Starbucks favorite, they’re topped with a sweet orange glaze and make the perfect holiday breakfast or brunch treat. Easy to make ahead and freezer-friendly, they’ll quickly become a festive family tradition.
Ingredients
For the scones:
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2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons granulated sugar
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2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
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1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
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Zest from 1 orange (reserve 2 tsp for glaze)
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1 cup buttermilk
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1 large egg, lightly beaten
For the glaze:
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2 teaspoons orange zest
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1 cup powdered sugar
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2 tablespoons orange juice
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and orange zest (reserve 2 tsp for glaze).
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Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Add buttermilk and stir gently until just combined.
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Fold in the chopped cranberries.
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On a floured surface, knead the dough 6–8 times, then shape into a 10-inch circle.
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Cut into 8 wedges and transfer to the baking sheet.
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Brush tops with beaten egg and bake for 13–16 minutes until golden.
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Let scones cool on a wire rack.
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Mix glaze ingredients until smooth and drizzle over the cooled scones.
Notes
Cold butter is essential for a flaky texture.
If using dried cranberries, soak them in warm water first.
Freeze unbaked scones for fresh-baked flavor anytime.
Buttermilk substitute: 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice (rest for 5 minutes).
Add coarse sugar on top before baking for crunch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Holiday Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American