As the aroma of freshly zested oranges fills the kitchen, I can’t help but smile, thinking about my favorite seasonal treat: Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Icing. This delightful recipe combines sweet and tangy flavors, resulting in scones that are not only blissfully flaky but also quick to whip up in under 45 minutes. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even an afternoon pick-me-up, they’re a fabulous way to bring a touch of warmth and cheer to your day. Plus, with their gluten-free goodness, you can indulge without worry! Ready to roll up your sleeves and savor each bite? Let’s dive into the details of this scrumptious treat!
Why are these scones a must-try?
Deliciously Unique: The vibrant combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange guarantees an explosion of flavor in every bite.
Quick and Easy: With a preparation time of under 45 minutes, you can whip up these scones with minimal effort and maximum reward, making them ideal for unexpected guests or a busy morning.
Flaky Perfection: Each scone boasts a golden, flaky crust with a soft and tender center, rivaling your favorite bakery treats.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, these gluten-free gems beautifully complement a hot cup of Spiced Cranberry Apple tea or coffee.
Make Ahead: Prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours, so you can bake fresh scones whenever the craving strikes!
Indulging in proven comfort food has never been this delightful.
Gluten-Free Cranberry Scone Ingredients
• Get ready to make some delicious scones!
For the Scones
- Gluten-Free Flour Blend – Provides structure; choose one containing xanthan gum for best results.
- Cane Sugar – Adds sweetness; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor profile.
- Baking Powder – Leavens the scones; opt for aluminum-free for a cleaner taste.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; sea salt or kosher salt works best.
- Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; replace with flax eggs for a vegan twist.
- Milk (or Non-Dairy Milk) – Contributes moisture and richness; almond or coconut milk is a great dairy-free option.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Amplifies sweetness; ensure it’s pure for the best flavor.
- Unsalted Butter – Offers richness and flakiness; plant-based butter can be used for a dairy-free version.
- Fresh Cranberries – Infuses tartness and wonderful texture; frozen cranberries work fine when thawed.
- Orange Zest – Adds a fresh citrus aroma; be generous for that bright flavor.
For the Orange Icing
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the icing; adjust to achieve your preferred thickness.
- Orange Juice – Provides tanginess; fresh juice is best for flavor.
These gluten-free cranberry scones with orange icing are sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy bringing a burst of flavor to your kitchen.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gluten Free Cranberry Scones With Orange Icing
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) with the rack positioned in the middle. This ensures that your Gluten Free Cranberry Scones with Orange Icing bake evenly and achieve that golden, flaky top everyone loves. While the oven heats, gather all of your ingredients and equipment to make the process smoother.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, cane sugar, baking powder, and salt until well blended. This step is crucial as it helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent. Look for a light, airy texture in your dry mix before moving on to the next stage.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Now, take cold unsalted butter and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers. Work until the mix resembles fine crumbs with small pea-sized pieces of butter. This technique is essential for achieving the tender, flaky layers of the scones, so take your time to ensure everything is well combined.
Step 4: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the large eggs, milk (or your choice of non-dairy milk), pure vanilla extract, and fresh orange zest. Combine until smooth, and relish the wonderful citrus aroma—it sets the stage for the delightful flavors in your scones!
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, gently folding them together using a spatula to avoid over-mixing. As the ingredients come together, you’ll notice the dough forming—be careful and do not knead it too much to maintain that tender texture.
Step 6: Fold in the Cranberries
Next, gently fold in the fresh cranberries until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step adds the delightful tartness that pairs beautifully with the zesty orange flavors. The vibrant color will show through, making your scones look inviting and delicious.
Step 7: Shape the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface, shaping it into a circle about 1.5 inches thick. Carefully place the dough on a lined baking sheet, ensuring it’s even. A well-shaped dough is key to uniform baking and a lovely presentation for your Gluten Free Cranberry Scones with Orange Icing.
Step 8: Score the Scones
Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the dough into 8 wedges without cutting all the way through. This technique allows the scones to bake evenly and helps you break them apart easily after baking. It also gives them a rustic, inviting appearance that enhances their appeal.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the scones for 25-30 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are firm to the touch. You can check for doneness by gently pressing the tops—when they spring back, they’re ready to come out of the oven.
Step 10: Cool and Prepare Icing
Once baked, transfer the scones to a cooling rack and let them cool for about 10 minutes. While they cool, prepare the orange icing by whisking together powdered sugar and fresh orange juice until smooth. This zesty glaze will elevate your scones and add that finishing touch.
Step 11: Drizzle and Serve
Finally, drizzle the orange icing generously over the cooled scones, allowing it to cascade down the sides. This not only enhances the flavor but adds an appealing visual element. Serve your delicious Gluten Free Cranberry Scones with Orange Icing warm, and enjoy a delightful culinary experience!
Gluten-Free Cranberry Scones Variations
Feeling inspired to put your own spin on these delectable gluten-free cranberry scones? Let your creativity run wild in the kitchen!
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Berry Bliss: Substitute cranberries with blueberries or raspberries for a fresh flavor explosion. Each fruit brings its unique sweetness and tartness.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. Nut lovers will appreciate the added texture and flavor variance.
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Vegan Delight: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter to create a vegan-friendly version that tastes just as wonderful.
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Zesty Twist: Experiment with lemon or almond extract instead of vanilla for an unexpected flavor twist. You may just discover a new favorite variation!
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Spice Things Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice element that will elevate the scones to cozy levels.
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Fruity Icing: Blend in a touch of lemon juice or a splash of cranberry juice in the icing for a different tangy finish that pairs nicely with the scones.
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Savory Surprise: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the batter for a unique savory touch that breaks the traditional sweet scone mold. They’ll perfectly accompany a warm bowl of soup!
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Full Flavored Indulgence: Drizzle the warm scones with the icing from Cranberry Orange Custard for an extra layer of flavor.
Dive into these variations and tailor them to suit your palate, enhancing your baking adventure while embracing delightful seasonal flavors!
How to Store and Freeze Gluten Free Cranberry Scones With Orange Icing
Fridge: Store scones in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the scones wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container for up to 3 months. They can be enjoyed any time!
Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in a preheated oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for about 10 minutes, allowing them to regain their flaky texture.
Make Ahead: Prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, so you can enjoy fresh Gluten Free Cranberry Scones with Orange Icing whenever you wish!
Expert Tips for Gluten Free Cranberry Scones
Cold Butter:
Ensure the butter is very cold when cutting it into the flour. This helps achieve the flaky texture that makes gluten-free cranberry scones truly delightful.
Gentle Mixing:
Be careful not to over-mix the dough. A gentle folding motion is key to keeping your scones tender and avoiding tough outcomes.
Icing Consistency:
For the perfect orange icing, adjust the amount of powdered sugar to achieve your desired thickness. A thicker glaze provides a stunning finish!
Storage Know-How:
Store your scones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months – just ensure they’re well-wrapped.
Flavor Boosting:
Feel free to experiment! Adding lemon zest or flavored extracts can elevate the taste of your gluten-free cranberry scones even more.
Make Ahead Options
These Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Icing are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic mornings! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply shape it into a circle and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. If you want to bake them later, refrigerate the shaped dough, and when ready, preheat your oven and bake directly from the fridge, increasing the baking time by a few extra minutes if needed. For even longer storage, freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months. When it’s time to enjoy these delightful scones, bake straight from the freezer and glaze with the orange icing once cooled for a deliciously fresh treat that feels as good as homemade!
What to Serve with Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Icing
Complement your scones with delightful pairings that enhance their flavors and create a memorable meal experience.
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Creamy Greek Yogurt: The tanginess of Greek yogurt balances the sweetness of the scones, offering a refreshing contrast that elevates each bite. Top it with a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
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Flavored Herbal Tea: A steaming cup of chamomile or peppermint tea provides a soothing complement. The aromatic notes enhance the citrus essence of the scones, creating a cozy atmosphere.
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Mixed Berry Compote: This vibrant compote brings a burst of flavor with its sweet and tart notes, making it a perfect counterpart to the cranberry orange combination.
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Lemonade Sparkler: Refreshing and fizzy, this drink livens up any snack scene. The zesty flavors will harmonize with the scones while adding a bubbly sense of fun.
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Honeyed Ricotta Toast: Spread creamy ricotta on toasted gluten-free bread, topped with a drizzle of honey. This light dish pairs wonderfully, echoing the scone’s fruitiness while adding a savory element.
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Chopped Nut Medley: A mix of walnuts and almonds adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the fluffy texture of the scones. Their earthy flavors work in harmony with the cranberry and orange.
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Seasonal Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring oranges, strawberries, and kiwi can brighten your meal. The freshness adds a joyful pop of color and flavor that celebrates seasonal produce.
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Gingerbread Latte: This seasonal drink made with warm spices and whipped cream brings warmth and comfort. The spiced profile harmonizes perfectly with the fruity scones, creating a festive experience.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate can add a rich sweetness that perfectly contrasts the tartness of the cranberries, making for a decadent bite.
Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Scones with Orange Icing Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting cranberries, look for firm, plump berries that are bright red in color. Avoid any that are soft or have dark spots, as these can indicate overripeness or spoilage. Fresh cranberries can be found in stores during the fall and winter seasons, but if you’re unable to find them, don’t worry! Frozen cranberries also work great—just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to your dough.
How should I store leftover scones?
Very good question! To keep your gluten-free cranberry orange scones fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This will help maintain their moisture and flavor. If you notice they’re losing some texture, try wrapping them in foil before placing them in the container to help lock in that delightful freshness.
Can I freeze these scones, and how do I do it?
Certainly! Freezing your gluten-free cranberry orange scones is a great way to enjoy them later. To freeze, first ensure they are fully cooled. Wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for about 10 minutes to get that lovely flaky texture back!
What if my scones come out too dry?
No worries—this can happen sometimes! If you find your scones are drier than expected, it may be due to over-mixing the dough or using too much flour. To prevent this, mix the dough gently and only until just combined. If they do come out dry, I suggest warming them up slightly in the microwave with a damp paper towel for about 10-15 seconds, which can help restore some moisture, making them more enjoyable!
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Definitely! These gluten-free cranberry orange scones are perfect for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. If you’re concerned about allergies, check the labels on your gluten-free flour blend for any potential allergens. The recipe can be easily modified for vegan diets by substituting eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and using plant-based butter and milk. Always be mindful of personal dietary needs when preparing these delicious scones!
Gluten Free Cranberry Scones With Orange Icing Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) with the rack positioned in the middle.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, cane sugar, baking powder, and salt until well blended.
- Cut cold unsalted butter into the flour mixture until it resembles fine crumbs with small pea-sized pieces.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and orange zest until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, gently folding them together with a spatula.
- Gently fold in the cranberries until they're evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface, shaping it into a circle about 1.5 inches thick.
- Score the surface of the dough into 8 wedges without cutting all the way through.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool on a rack for 10 minutes and prepare the icing by whisking powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth.
- Drizzle the orange icing over the cooled scones and serve warm.
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