Easy Cranberry Orange Scones: A Delightful Recipe!

Hey fellow busy moms! 👋 Juliette here, from Busy Mom Simple Nutrition, ready to share another sanity-saving nutrition solution. Today, we’re whipping up Cranberry Orange Scones – a delicious way to sneak some extra nutrients into breakfast (or snack time!). I know, I know, scones can sound intimidating, but trust me, this recipe is designed for real-life, chaotic kitchens like yours and mine.

Let’s be honest, getting everyone fed and happy can feel like a never-ending marathon. That’s where these Cranberry Orange Scones come in! They’re packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients that will fuel your family’s day. I created this recipe with simple nutrition in mind.

I remember the first time I tried to make Cranberry Orange Scones. My oldest was going through a major growth spurt and seemed hungry all the time. I wanted something more nutritious than plain toast, but didn’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. After a few attempts (and a couple of kitchen fails!), I finally landed on this easy, delicious version. Now, it’s a family favorite! My kids love the tangy sweetness of the cranberries and orange. Plus, I love knowing they’re getting a boost of vitamins and fiber to power through their busy days. If you like this easy recipe you may like my Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

If you’re seeking simple nutrition solutions that fit into your wonderfully messy life, you’re in the right place! Let’s get baking these Cranberry Orange Scones!

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Adds structure to the scone.
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour: Sneaking in some extra fiber!
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the Cranberry Orange Scones rise and become light and fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Gives the Cranberry Orange Scones a tender crumb.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes: This is key for creating flaky layers in your Cranberry Orange Scones. Make sure it’s cold!
• 3/4 cup dried cranberries: Adds sweetness, tartness, and a beautiful pop of color. Cranberries are also packed with antioxidants!
• 1 orange, zested and juiced: The orange zest and juice add a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the cranberries perfectly.
• 3/4 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and tanginess to the Cranberry Orange Scones. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
• 1 large egg: Helps bind the ingredients together and adds richness.
• Optional: Coarse sugar for sprinkling on top: Adds a sparkly touch and extra sweetness.

No worries if you don’t have buttermilk on hand! I often use plain yogurt mixed with a little milk for a similar tangy flavor in my Cranberry Orange Scones. For another delicious cranberry recipe you may like my Cranberry Brie Bites This Cranberry Orange Scones recipe proves nutritious doesn’t mean expensive or complicated! These are wholesome ingredients that you can find at your regular grocery store. My family gets extra nutrition when I add a tablespoon of flaxseed meal to the flour mixture. It’s a simple nutrition hack that changed our family’s health. Trust me, this Cranberry Orange Scones ingredient list is simple because busy moms need nutrition without complexity!

Okay, fellow nutrition-seekers, let’s get these Cranberry Orange Scones in the oven! Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through it step-by-step, just like we’re cooking together in my kitchen.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, whole wheat flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined so the baking powder and soda are evenly distributed.
3. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The key here is to work quickly so the butter stays cold. Chilled butter will make the best Cranberry Scones.
4. Stir in the dried cranberries and orange zest. Distribute evenly throughout the flour mixture.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, orange juice, and egg.
6. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough. It should be slightly shaggy and sticky. Overmixing will result in tough Cranberry Orange Scones.
7. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick disc.
8. Use a sharp knife or a cookie cutter to cut the disc into 8 wedges.
9. Place the wedges onto the prepared baking sheet.
10. Brush the tops of the Cranberry Orange Scones with a little extra buttermilk or milk and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired. This adds a nice shine and extra sweetness.
11. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Your Cranberry Orange Scones should smell nourishing by now! Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch!
12. Let the Cranberry Orange Scones cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Here’s where I used to struggle with my Cranberry Orange Scones – I always overmixed the dough! Learn from my experience and be gentle. In my busy kitchen, this nutritious Cranberry Orange Scones usually takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. While your Cranberry Orange Scones are cooking, take a moment to appreciate nourishing your family!

These Cranberry Orange Scones are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in so many ways!

My kids devour this nutritious Cranberry Orange Scones when I serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey. I love pairing mine with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy breakfast. They’re also perfect for those busy weeknights when we need good nutrition fast! I find that these are delicious alongside some Spicy Cranberry BBQ Meatballs.

• Kid-Approved Side Dish: Serve with a side of fresh fruit, like berries or sliced oranges, for an extra dose of vitamins.
• Perfect Occasions: These Cranberry Orange Scones are fantastic for brunch, afternoon tea, or even a special weekend breakfast.
• Presentation Tips: Arrange the Cranberry Orange Scones on a pretty plate with a small bowl of jam or clotted cream for a more elegant presentation.
• Leftover Ideas: Store leftover Cranberry Orange Scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw them at room temperature or warm them up in the oven.
• Seasonal Variations: Try adding different types of nuts or seeds to the dough for extra texture and flavor. Walnuts, pecans, or pumpkin seeds would all be delicious!
• Guest Reactions: Every time I make these Cranberry Orange Scones for friends and family, they rave about how delicious and flavorful they are. They’re always surprised to hear how easy they are to make!

Alright, let’s tackle some common questions I get from fellow moms about these Cranberry Orange Scones:

Q: Is this Cranberry Orange Scones really nutritious enough for growing kids?

A: Absolutely! These Cranberry Orange Scones contain whole wheat flour for added fiber, cranberries packed with antioxidants, and orange for a boost of vitamin C. Plus, you can always add extras like flaxseed meal or nuts for even more nutrients.

Q: What if my picky eater won’t try this healthy Cranberry Orange Scones?

A: Start by letting them help you make the Cranberry Orange Scones. Kids are often more willing to try things they’ve helped create. You can also offer a small piece alongside something they already enjoy, like a glass of milk or a favorite fruit.

Q: Can I meal prep this Cranberry Orange Scones for busy weeks ahead?

A: Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time, cut it into wedges, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just bake them as directed when you’re ready to eat them. You can also bake the Cranberry Orange Scones ahead of time and freeze them for longer storage.

Q: Can I substitute the butter with something else?

A: While butter is key for creating flaky layers, you can try using coconut oil or shortening as a substitute. However, the texture and flavor may be slightly different.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure to check the label to ensure it contains xanthan gum, which helps bind the ingredients together.

Q: What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

A: Add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is easier to handle.

Q: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries?

A: Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but you may need to reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe slightly.

These Cranberry Orange Scones are a simple way to add a little sunshine and nutrition to your family’s day. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick snack. And the best part is, they’re so easy to make!

My Cranberry Orange Scones Nutrition Hacks:

1. Add a spoonful of flaxseed meal to the flour mixture for an extra boost of omega-3 fatty acids.
2. Use plain Greek yogurt instead of buttermilk for added protein.
3. Top with a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for healthy fats and extra crunch.

Here are a few family-tested healthy Cranberry Orange Scones variations:

• Chocolate Chip Cranberry Orange Scones: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the dough.
• Nutty Cranberry Orange Scones: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough.
• Lemon Cranberry Orange Scones: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough.

My daughter prefers the chocolate chip version, while my son loves the nutty version. I personally enjoy the classic Cranberry Orange Scones with a cup of tea. No matter how you make them, I hope these Cranberry Orange Scones bring a little joy and nourishment to your family’s table. Remember, simple nutrition is the key to a happy and healthy family!

Give these Cranberry Orange Scones a try. I know you and your family will love them! For more simple nutrition ideas for busy families, check out this article on Glazed Cranberry Orange Scones – Sally’s Baking As always, I’m here to support you on your journey to simple nutrition. Let me know how you and your family like the Cranberry Orange Scones and what you think! For even more inspiration, check out this resource on Cranberry Orange Scones | – Tastes Better From Scratch! This one might be a good read for a change! Check out these Ridiculously Easy Orange Cranberry Scones – The Café Sucre Farine

You got this, Mama! 💕