Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe

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Let me share with you a little treasure that’s become my absolute go-to for cozy mornings and festive afternoons: the Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe. This gem combines the bright zestiness of fresh oranges with the tart burst of cranberries, all wrapped up in a tender, flaky scone that’s entirely gluten-free yet utterly indulgent. Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or simply craving something uniquely delicious, these scones promise a perfect balance of texture and flavor that will brighten your day and impress anyone lucky enough to share them.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each one plays a crucial role in the success of the scones—adding texture, moisture, flavor, and that stunning color that makes these scones so appealing.

• 2 cups (272g) gluten-free flour (Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 Baking Flour): This blend is perfect for replicating traditional flour’s texture without any gluten.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Essential for light, airy scones with a lovely rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
• 8 tablespoons (113g) frozen butter, grated or diced: Cold butter creates those coveted flaky layers as it melts during baking.
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar, plus additional to sprinkle: Adds sweetness and a slight crunch on top.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest: Bursting with bright citrus oils to infuse the scones with fresh flavor.
• 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream: Brings moisture and tenderness to the crumb.
• 4 tablespoons (60ml) heavy cream: Enhances richness and moistness.
• 1 large egg: Binds everything together and adds structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm background note that complements the orange and cranberry beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract: A subtle nutty hint to deepen the overall flavor profile.
• 1 cup (100g) fresh cranberries, sliced in half: Their vibrant color and tartness are the star bursts of this scone.
• 1/2 tablespoon heavy cream (for egg wash): Helps to create that gorgeous golden-brown sheen.

How to Make Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by pulsing gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt together in a food processor until just mixed. If you don’t have one handy, a good whisking in a bowl works just as well. This step ensures your scones will have even leavening and a consistent crumb.

Step 2: Incorporate the Frozen Butter

Add the diced frozen butter to the flour mixture and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. For those who prefer hands-on mixing, grate the frozen butter and cut it into the flour with a pastry blender or two forks. Keeping the butter ice-cold guarantees those flaky, buttery layers we all love.

Step 3: Prep the Orange Sugar

Mix the granulated sugar with freshly grated orange zest in a small bowl. This simple step releases the essential oils and really amps up the citrus aroma, making the scones smell like a bright winter morning!

Step 4: Prep the Cranberries

Carefully slice your fresh cranberries in half to release their vibrant color and tartness throughout the dough. This step helps distribute their flavor evenly instead of leaving whole bursts.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients and Orange Sugar

Stir the orange-scented sugar into the flour and butter mixture. This brings a subtle sweetness combined with zest that’s going to make these scones unforgettable.

Step 6: Add the Wet Ingredients

Whisk together the sour cream, heavy cream, egg, vanilla, and almond extract separately. Form a well in your dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Gently fold together until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t worry if it feels a little loose—this moisture is key for tender scones.

Step 7: Fold in the Cranberries

Gently incorporate the halved cranberries so they are spread evenly without smashing or turning your dough pink. This keeps the texture just right and the colors vibrant.

Step 8: Knead the Dough

Transfer your dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead just until it all comes together smoothly. Overworking could make them tough, so be gentle.

Step 9: Shape the Dough Into a Rectangle

Pat the dough into about a 7×5-inch rectangle. This shape will make your cutting easier and produce wedges that bake evenly.

Step 10 and 11: Laminate the Dough

Cut the rectangle in half lengthwise, stack the pieces, rotate 90 degrees, and press back into a 7×5-inch rectangle. Repeat this cutting and stacking process a total of three times. This layering adds flakiness and helps your scones rise beautifully.

Step 12: Chill the Dough

Shape the laminated dough into a 7-inch disk that’s about ¾ inch thick and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Chill it for at least 30 minutes to let the gluten-free flour hydrate fully and the butter firm up once more—this step is critical for texture.

Step 13: Cut Wedges

Remove the dough disk from the fridge and slice into eight triangular wedges using a sharp knife or bench scraper. For the neatest wedges and best rise, press straight down without twisting and wipe your blade between cuts.

Step 14: Final Chill and Preheat Oven

Arrange the wedges on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them. Freeze for 30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 400°F. This last chill makes sure your butter is cold right before baking, which means maximum flakiness.

Step 15: Apply Egg Wash and Sugar Topping

Mix an egg with a splash of heavy cream for an egg wash. Lightly brush this over your chilled scones, avoiding drips on the sides. Then sprinkle generously with sugar to add a sparkling, crunchy finish when baked.

Step 16: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the scones for 20 to 22 minutes or until golden brown. Test doneness with a toothpick or instant-read thermometer—190°F is perfect. Let them cool on a wire rack for at least half an hour to set their crumb before indulging.

How to Serve Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe

Garnishes

These scones shine when topped simply—to keep things bright, a light spread of creamy butter or a smear of orange marmalade complements their citrus-cranberry notes perfectly. For a touch of indulgence, try a drizzle of vanilla glaze made with powdered sugar and fresh orange juice.

Side Dishes

Serving these scones alongside a warm cup of your favorite tea or freshly brewed coffee creates a comforting combo perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea. You can also pair them with a vibrant fruit salad or creamy yogurt for a fresh balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fancy brunch table, arrange these scones on a tiered cake stand with sprigs of fresh rosemary or orange slices for a festive vibe. They also look stunning wrapped in parchment tied with twine, making them perfect gifts or picnic treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days and maintain their tender crumb and flaky texture.

Freezing

If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cooled scones in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months and thaw quickly at room temperature or warmed gently.

Reheating

Reheat scones in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes or pop them in the toaster oven for a few minutes to revive that fresh-from-the-oven flakiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them chewy rather than tender.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Dried cranberries will add sweetness and chew, but fresh cranberries give a lovely tart burst and juiciness that really elevates the scones. If using dried, consider soaking them briefly in orange juice for extra flavor.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

You can omit the almond extract without losing much from the recipe. Vanilla extract carries most of the flavor weight, so your scones will still be delicious and bright.

Can I make these scones dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the sour cream for a thick coconut yogurt and use dairy-free butter and cream alternatives. The texture might vary a bit, but the flavors remain delightful.

Why is chilling the dough so important?

Chilling firms up the butter and hydrates the gluten-free flour, which prevents overly gritty texture. It also helps the scones maintain height and flaky layers when baked.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! The recipe scales well, just be sure to work with batches that fit comfortably in your food processor or mixing bowl. Keep chilling and layering steps the same for best results.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a bright, flaky, and irresistibly flavorful gluten-free treat, this Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s approachable enough for any skill level yet sophisticated in flavor, bringing a sunshine hue to chilly mornings and holiday gatherings alike. I can’t wait for you to try it and make these scones a beloved staple in your home just like they are in mine!

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