Orange Scones

 These Orange Scones are a delightful twist on classic scones, infused with the bright, citrusy flavor of fresh oranges. With their buttery, flaky texture and a hint of sweetness, these scones are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon tea treat. Topped with a simple orange glaze, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a homemade baked good, these zesty scones are sure to become a favorite. Let’s whip up these citrusy delights and savor every bite!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Zesty Citrus Flavor: Fresh orange zest and juice add a refreshing burst of flavor.
• Buttery & Flaky: These scones are tender, crumbly, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, weekend brunches, or gifting.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Scones:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for sprinkling)
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (plus extra for brushing)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 medium orange)

For the Orange Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp fresh orange juice
• Optional: Additional zest for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and orange zest.

2. Cut in the Butter

1. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and orange juice.
2. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Do not overmix—the dough should be slightly sticky and shaggy.*

3. 4. Shape the Dough

   1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick.
   2. Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut the circle into 8 wedges (like slicing a pizza).
   3. Transfer the wedges to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

   5. Bake the Scones

   1. Brush the tops of the scones lightly with heavy cream and sprinkle with granulated sugar for a sweet crunch.
   2. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown around the edges and firm to the touch.
   3. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

   6. Make the Orange Glaze

   1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. Adjust the amount of orange juice to achieve your desired consistency—thicker for drizzling, thinner for a light glaze.
   2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled scones and garnish with additional orange zest if desired.

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   Serving Suggestions

   • For Breakfast: Serve warm with a dollop of clotted cream or butter for an indulgent start to your day.
   • With Tea or Coffee: Pair with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or orange juice for a cozy treat.
   • As Gifts: Package in decorative tins or boxes for thoughtful homemade gifts.
   • With Extras: Add dried cranberries, white chocolate chips, or chopped nuts to the dough for added texture and flavor.

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   Pro Tips for Success

   • Keep Ingredients Cold: Use cold butter and cream to ensure the scones stay flaky and tender.
   • Don’t Overwork the Dough: Handle the dough as little as possible to avoid tough scones.
   • Freeze Before Baking: For extra flakiness, chill the shaped scones in the freezer for 15 minutes before baking.
   • Experiment with Variations: Swap orange for lemon or lime zest for a different citrus twist.

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   Final Thoughts

   These Orange Scones are a celebration of citrus and buttery goodness, combining the brightness of fresh oranges with the rich, flaky texture of classic scones. With their zesty aroma, tender crumb, and sweet glaze, they’re a treat that’s as delightful to make as they are to eat.

   So grab your oranges, zest that peel, and bake up these zesty, buttery scones. One bite of these bright, citrusy gems, and you’ll feel like you’ve brought a ray of sunshine straight to your kitchen—one flaky, orange-infused bite at a time! 🍊