| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 15-20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 330 | 16g | 10g | 40g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 16g | 2g | 6g | 0.65g |
When I think of comfort food with a zesty twist, Orange Scones immediately come to mind. This recipe is a delightful take on the classic scone, enriched with the fresh, invigorating flavor of oranges. As someone who grew up with the lush bounty of the Pacific Northwest and the subtle, sophisticated flavors of Japanese cuisine, I find this fusion exhilarating and deeply satisfying.
The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tangy
Oranges have always held a special place in my heart. Their sweet, tangy flavor profile acts as a bridge between various cuisines and can elevate any dish. Orange zest and juice offer a burst of freshness that is both uplifting and invigorating. In these Orange Scones, the zest works its magic, infusing the dough with citrusy notes that dance on the palate without being overpowering.
The Health Benefits of Oranges
Let’s not forget the health benefits that come with incorporating oranges into your diet. Rich in Vitamin C, they can boost your immune system and improve skin health. Oranges also have anti-inflammatory properties and are abundant in antioxidants, making these Orange Scones not just a treat for your taste buds but a boon for your well-being.
When crafting these scones, you’ll notice their compatibility with other fruit-based dishes. Their texture and flavor make them a great complement to berry jams or a fruit salad. You could even serve them alongside a yogurt parfait for a well-rounded, nutritious breakfast. If you’re a fan of traditional British scones or perhaps American biscuits, you’ll find that these Orange Scones offer a refreshing twist that feels both familiar and novel.
Additionally, the optional addition of dried cranberries or raisins not only adds a subtle sweetness but also heightens the textual contrast, making each bite an adventure in its own right. This recipe stands out due to its simplicity and versatility, allowing you to adapt and mold it according to your personal preferences.
For those looking to delve deeper into baking scones, I recommend reading up on the techniques used by British bakers, who have mastered the art of creating the perfect scone. Websites like British Baking offer some fantastic insights and tips.
In summary, these Orange Scones are a nod to my culinary journey, combining elements from different food cultures into one irresistible treat. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or saving some for a rainy day, these scones promise to deliver both pleasure and health benefits in every bite.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2 tsp grated orange zest
- 2/3 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
- Extra flour for dusting
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step Two
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step Three
Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step Four
Stir in the grated orange zest.
Step Five
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, large egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step Six
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour the buttermilk mixture into the well. Stir gently until the dough begins to come together. If using, fold in the dried cranberries or raisins.
Step Seven
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently a few times to bring the dough together, being careful not to overwork it.
Step Eight
Pat the dough into an 8-inch circle, about 1-inch thick. Using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, cut the dough into 8 wedges.
Step Nine
Place the wedges onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.
Step Ten
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step Eleven
Remove the scones from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step Twelve
Serve the orange scones warm or at room temperature. Enjoy them plain or with butter, clotted cream, or your favorite jam.
