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Cranberry Orange Scones with Simple Glaze

Scones are the quintessential treat for any afternoon tea, a delightful combination of rich buttery goodness and a comforting texture that is surefire crowd-pleaser. Among the myriad flavours available, cranberry and orange is a combination that stands out, offering a sweet yet tangy balance that is perfect for any season. In this article, we will guide you through the simple process of making Cranberry Orange Scones topped with a delectable glaze.

Ingredients

For the Scones:

• 225g all-purpose flour
• 85g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 50g caster sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Zest of 1 orange
• 100g fresh or dried cranberries
• 150ml whole milk
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)

For the Simple Glaze:

• 100g icing sugar
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice

Method

1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C for fan ovens) or 400°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step aerates your flour, ensuring light and fluffy scones. Stir in the caster sugar and orange zest, which will infuse the scones with a fresh citrus aroma.

3. Incorporate the Butter:
Add the chilled, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips, gently rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. Be careful not to overwork it, as you want to retain some small chunks of butter for flaky scones.

4. Add the Cranberries:
Fold the cranberries into the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed. If you’re using dried cranberries, consider giving them a quick soak in hot water for a few minutes beforehand to plump them up.

5. Combine with Milk:
Make a well in the centre of the mixture and pour in the milk. Using a butter knife or a spatula, gently combine the ingredients until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it just until it comes together, being cautious not to over-knead.

6. Shape the Scones:
Pat the dough into a circle about 2.5 cm thick. Using a sharp knife or a scone cutter, cut the dough into wedges or rounds, depending on your preference. Place the scones onto the prepared baking tray, spacing them apart, and brush the tops with the beaten egg for a lovely, golden finish.

7. Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the scones rise beautifully and turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures may vary.

8. Prepare the Glaze:
While the scones are baking, whisk together the icing sugar and orange juice in a small bowl to create a smooth glaze. Adjust the consistency with more icing sugar or orange juice as needed — you want it pourable but not too runny.

9. Cool and Glaze:
Once the scones are out of the oven, allow them to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before drizzling the glaze over the tops. The warm scones will catch the glaze beautifully, enhancing both their appearance and flavour.

10. Serve and Enjoy:
Cranberry orange scones can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. They can be served plain, or with clotted cream and jam for a traditional touch. Accompany with a steaming pot of tea, and you have the perfect afternoon indulgence!

Conclusion

Baking scones may seem daunting, but with this straightforward recipe, you can impress your friends and family with minimal effort. The sweet and tart flavours of the cranberries pair perfectly with the bright notes of orange, making these scones a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether for a quiet afternoon snack or a festive gathering, Cranberry Orange Scones are certain to become a favourite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy!

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