If you are searching for a delightful treat that perfectly captures the bright, zesty essence of citrus, you will absolutely adore this Fresh Orange Scones Recipe. These scones are tender and flaky with a buttery crumb that melts in your mouth, all enhanced by the lively zing of fresh orange zest and juice. There is something about the combination of the subtly sweet glaze with bursts of orange flavor that makes this recipe an instant favorite for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up. Whether shared with friends or enjoyed quietly by yourself, these scones bring a warm, cheerful vibe to any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Fresh Orange Scones Recipe uses simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building the perfect texture, flavor, and aroma. From the tangy freshness of orange zest to the richness of butter and the delicate tang of sour cream, every component combines for scones that are as pleasing to the palate as they are to bake.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance citrus brightness.
- Zest of 1 large orange: Bursting with natural oils, it gives an irresistible orange aroma and flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone for a tender, flaky scone crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the scones rise and become fluffy.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside the baking powder for perfect lift and texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and citrus flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, frozen: Cold butter is critical for creating flaky layers in the scones.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a gentle tang, keeping scones wonderfully soft.
- 1 egg: Binds the ingredients and adds richness to the dough.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: For brushing the tops to get a lovely golden finish.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: The base of the light, sweet, and glossy glaze.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides warmth and depth to the glaze flavor.
- 2-4 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice: Intensifies the citrus notes in the glaze.
How to Make Fresh Orange Scones Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Area
Start off by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C), which ensures a hot environment for your scones to puff up perfectly. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid sticking and to make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This combination will give your scones the lift and texture that make each bite soft yet crumbly in the best way.
Step 3: Combine Sugar and Orange Zest with Flour
Next, in a larger bowl, mix your sugar and fresh orange zest. Toss in the flour mixture and stir so the zest is evenly distributed, letting every bit of flour catch those aromatic oils for full flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Incorporate the Frozen Butter
Grate the cold, frozen butter right into your flour mixture. Using your hands, quickly work the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse meal with little lumps. The cold butter creates those flaky layers scones are famous for.
Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients and Combine
In a small bowl, whisk the sour cream and egg until smooth and glossy. Gently fold this into the flour mixture just until combined – overmixing can make your scones tough, so be gentle and patient.
Step 6: Shape and Cut the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface and transfer the dough to it. Press and pat the dough into an 8-inch circle about ¾ inch thick. Use a sharp knife to cut the circle into 8 even triangles. These scones are ready to bake in no time!
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Set the triangles on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake for 15-17 minutes or until the tops turn a warm golden brown. Let them cool on the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare and Add the Glaze
Whisk the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and freshly squeezed orange juice to create a smooth glaze. Once the scones have cooled, dip their tops or drizzle the glaze generously over them for that extra sweet, citrusy finishing touch.
How to Serve Fresh Orange Scones Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh orange slices or a sprinkle of additional orange zest on top of the glaze add a vibrant, natural pop of color and enhance the citrus aroma when serving. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a delicate sparkle that makes these scones look as good as they taste.
Side Dishes
These scones pair wonderfully with a dollop of clotted cream or a smooth whipped cream for luxurious texture contrast. For a heartier approach, serve alongside fresh berries or a small bowl of creamy yogurt. A cup of tea, especially Earl Grey with its citrus notes, is an ideal companion.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the scones with layers of mascarpone and orange marmalade for a stunning brunch centerpiece. Or arrange them around a tiered platter with fresh flowers and sliced citrus for an elegant tea party vibe that will impress guests effortlessly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store leftover Fresh Orange Scones Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days and in the refrigerator for up to a week. Avoid stacking them directly to keep the glaze intact and the texture just right.
Freezing
Wrap the scones individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag to freeze for up to 2 months. This way, you can enjoy the magic of fresh-baked scones anytime by simply thawing and reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap the scones and place them on a baking sheet. Warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes to revive their crisp edges and soft interior. Avoid microwaving as it can make the scones chewy rather than tender and flaky.
FAQs
Can I use regular butter instead of unsalted butter?
You can, but be cautious with adding extra salt since salted butter will increase the overall saltiness. It might slightly alter the flavor balance, but your scones will still turn out tasty.
Is it necessary to use sour cream?
Sour cream adds moisture and a mild tang that perfectly complements the orange, making scones tender. If unavailable, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or buttermilk, though texture might vary slightly.
Why is my scone dough sticky?
This dough is meant to be a bit soft but manageable. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface and hands when shaping. Avoid adding too much flour or scones can turn dense instead of light.
Can I make these scones vegan?
With some substitutions like vegan butter, plant-based yogurt, and an egg replacer, you can adapt this recipe. Just know the texture and flavor will be a bit different, but still delicious.
How do I know when scones are done baking?
Look for scones that have risen, with golden-brown tops and firm bottoms. They should feel set and spring back slightly when touched, indicating that they are baked through without being dry.
Final Thoughts
There is something wonderfully comforting and uplifting about making this Fresh Orange Scones Recipe at home. The joyful aroma filling your kitchen and the tender, citrus-kissed bites make it a wonderful ritual for sharing with loved ones or enjoying on your own. I hope you give this recipe a try and discover just how easy it is to bring a bit of sunshine to your breakfast table anytime you want.
Print
Fresh Orange Scones Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Fresh Orange Scones are a delightful breakfast treat bursting with bright citrus flavor. Made with zest and juice of fresh oranges, tender sour cream, and a buttery crumbly texture, these scones bake to a golden perfection and are topped with a sweet orange glaze for an extra burst of freshness. Perfect for morning coffee or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
Scone Dough
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 large orange (or 2 medium oranges)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, frozen
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 egg
Glaze
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–4 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later.
- Combine Sugar and Orange Zest: In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar and orange zest. This helps to infuse the sugar with fresh citrus flavor. Then add the dry flour mixture to the sugar and zest, tossing them together evenly.
- Add Butter: Grate the frozen unsalted butter into the flour mixture. Using your hands, gently work the butter into the flour until the texture resembles a coarse meal with pea-sized bits of butter throughout. This step creates the flaky texture in the scones.
- Mix Wet Ingredients and Combine: In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream and egg until smooth. Gently fold this mixture into the flour and butter mixture just until combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the scones tender.
- Shape and Cut Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into an 8-inch circle roughly ¾ inch thick. Using a knife or bench scraper, cut the circle into 8 equal triangular wedges.
- Bake the Scones: Transfer the wedges to the prepared baking sheet spaced slightly apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-17 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Allow the scones to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Prepare and Apply Glaze: While the scones are cooling, whisk together the melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 2 to 4 tablespoons fresh orange juice in a bowl until smooth. Adjust orange juice to reach your desired glaze consistency. Dip the tops of the cooled scones into the glaze or drizzle the glaze over them for a glossy, sweet finish.
Notes
- For a more intense orange flavor, use the zest of 2 oranges as suggested, and add extra orange juice to the glaze if desired.
- Make sure the butter is frozen before grating to get the best flaky texture in your scones.
- Do not overmix the dough after adding the wet ingredients; this keeps the scones tender and light.
- Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute sour cream with a plant-based yogurt and use dairy-free butter alternatives.
