Fresh Orange Scones Recipe

If you’re searching for a bakery-style treat that’s bursting with citrusy sunshine, look no further than these Fresh Orange Scones. Each bite is soft, flaky, and glowing with real orange flavor from zest to glaze. This is the kind of homemade scone that brightens a brunch table, pairs deliciously with your morning coffee, and charms everyone lucky enough to try one. The aroma alone is irresistible—you and your kitchen are in for a real treat with this easy, vibrant recipe!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Fresh Orange Scones is that they only require a handful of wholesome ingredients, yet each one serves a key purpose. From luscious cream for richness to orange zest for brightness, every component makes these scones exceptional.

• All-purpose flour: The sturdy backbone of your scones, giving them the perfect crumb and structure.
• Granulated sugar: Lends just the right amount of sweetness to balance the citrus and butter.
• Baking powder: Essential for that beautiful, bakery-style rise—don’t skimp!
• Salt: A small amount that truly enhances all the other flavors.
• Orange zest: The true flavor MVP, providing a burst of real orange essence in every bite.
• Cold unsalted butter (cubed): Cold butter is the secret to flaky, tender layers—use it straight from the fridge.
• Heavy cream: Makes your scones ultra-rich and gives a moist, fluffy crumb.
• Large egg: Adds structure and helps bind everything together.
• Fresh orange juice: Adds a tangy brightness that makes these scones shine.
• Vanilla extract: Just a touch for warmth and depth of flavor.
• Powdered sugar (for the glaze): Smooth, sweet, and perfect for making a thick orange glaze.
• More fresh orange juice (for the glaze): Enhances the citrus notes and helps achieve drizzle consistency.
• Orange zest (for the glaze): Dials up the orange flavor in your finishing touch.

How to Make Fresh Orange Scones

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper—this keeps your Fresh Orange Scones from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. It sets the stage for golden, perfectly baked scones every time.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and orange zest. Make sure everything is well combined, with the orange zest evenly distributed so that every bite is infused with citrus. This mixture will form the flavorful base of your scones.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to your bowl of dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter in until it resembles coarse crumbs. You want little, pea-size pieces of butter scattered throughout—these will melt during baking, creating that classic flaky scone texture.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cream, egg, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract. This silky mixture is what gives Fresh Orange Scones their moist, tender crumb. Pour it into the dry ingredients, and gently stir or fold just until a soft dough starts to come together—careful not to overmix, or you’ll lose that lovely flakiness.

Step 5: Shape and Slice

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it gently into a circle about 1 inch thick. Don’t use a rolling pin—your hands are perfect. Slice the dough into 8 wedges, pie-style, and transfer each one to your prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between so the scones have room to grow.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the scones in your preheated oven for 15–18 minutes. They should puff up, turn lightly golden, and smell absolutely fantastic. Let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet; this gives the crumb time to set, making them easier to handle and even more delicious.

Step 7: Mix and Drizzle the Orange Glaze

In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, 2–3 tablespoons fresh orange juice, and a sprinkle of orange zest. Whisk until smooth and the glaze is thick yet pourable. Drizzle generously over warm or cooled scones, letting the glaze drip down the sides. You’ll add that final burst of sweet, citrusy magic to your gorgeous Fresh Orange Scones!

How to Serve Fresh Orange Scones

Garnishes

Dress up your Fresh Orange Scones with a little extra orange zest sprinkled on top of the glaze—so vibrant and inviting! A few thin slices of fresh orange alongside or a dusting of powdered sugar make a beautiful finishing touch that invites everyone to dive in.

Side Dishes

These scones pair perfectly with a creamy dollop of clotted cream or a bit of whipped butter. Serve them with fresh berries or a juicy fruit salad to round out a sunny brunch, or alongside a steaming mug of black tea or coffee for an irresistible breakfast treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch buffet, arrange your Fresh Orange Scones on a pretty platter, alternating directions for that bakery-style look. You can also individually wrap them in pretty parchment for breakfast-on-the-go, or stack them high on a tiered cake stand for a classic tea party. Don’t be afraid to get playful—these scones are as eye-catching as they are delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra Fresh Orange Scones (and that’s a big “if”), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’ll stay tender, though the glaze may set a little more over time.

Freezing

To freeze, simply wait until your scones are completely cool (and don’t glaze them yet). Place the unglazed scones on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and add the fresh glaze just before serving.

Reheating

Reheat room-temperature or thawed scones in a 300°F oven for about 5–7 minutes until just warmed through. This brings back that just-baked magic! If your scones are already glazed, keep an eye that the glaze doesn’t get too melty—otherwise, glaze after reheating.

FAQs

Can I add fruit or chocolate to my Fresh Orange Scones?

Absolutely! Citrus and berries are a match made in heaven—try folding in a handful of dried cranberries or mini chocolate chips for an extra treat. Just add them to the dough before shaping and baking.

What’s the key to getting scones light and flaky?

Keep your butter very cold and don’t overwork the dough. Tiny bits of butter create steam as the scones bake, resulting in those sought-after flaky layers. And remember to mix gently and briefly—just until the dough comes together.

Can I make these scones dairy free?

It’s possible to make a dairy-free version—swap in a thick, unsweetened coconut cream for the heavy cream and use a plant-based butter. The results are still delicious and have a hint of natural sweetness.

Why do my scones spread too much in the oven?

If your scones are spreading, the butter may have softened too much before baking, or the dough was overmixed. Pop your shaped scones in the fridge for 15 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.

Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?

Fresh is best for both juice and zest when making Fresh Orange Scones—the flavor really sings. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice will work, but the tang and brightness might not be quite as pronounced.

Final Thoughts

There’s something uniquely joyful about baking and sharing Fresh Orange Scones. Whether it’s a cheerful weekend breakfast or a cozy afternoon pick-me-up, these scones always bring a little extra warmth to the day. Give them a try—you might just find they become a treasured favorite in your baking lineup!

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