There’s just something magical about enjoying a warm scone with a cup of tea in the morning, don’t you think? I can still remember those cozy weekends spent in my kitchen, the smell of fresh-baked scones wafting through the air while I sipped my favorite Earl Grey. My absolute favorite? These delightful Cranberry Almond Scones! They’re buttery, flaky, and studded with sweet, tangy cranberries and crunchy almonds that create the perfect harmony of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, enjoying a quiet afternoon tea, or treating yourself to a sweet breakfast, these scones are an absolute must. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked! So, let’s get baking and bring a little joy to your next meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of your scones, giving them that lovely texture.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Just the right amount to add a touch of sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: This is what makes your scones rise and become nice and fluffy!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors beautifully, balancing the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Make sure it’s cold! This is the secret to achieving those flaky layers we all love.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: These little gems provide a sweet-tart burst in every bite. You can also use chopped fresh cranberries for a different twist!
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds: They add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the cranberries.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: This keeps the scones rich and moist, giving them that delightful softness.
- 1 large egg: This acts as a binder, helping to bring everything together nicely.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making the scones even more irresistible!
How to Prepare Cranberry Almond Scones
Making these Cranberry Almond Scones is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love how simple it is to whip them up. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delightful batch in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your scones bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir them together well, making sure there are no lumps.
- Add the butter: Now, add your cold, cubed butter into the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; some small chunks of butter are totally fine!
- Incorporate the fruits and nuts: Gently fold in the dried cranberries and sliced almonds. This is where the magic happens, so be sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. This mixture adds richness to your scones.
- Mix it all together: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those scones to stay tender!
- Shape the dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently shape it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Use a knife or a pizza cutter to slice it into wedges.
- Bake your scones: Place the wedges on a lined baking sheet and pop them in the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and smell heavenly!
- Cool and serve: Let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Trust me, the wait is worth it as those buttery scents fill your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Easy to Make: Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, these scones come together quickly with simple ingredients and clear steps. You’ll be a scone pro in no time!
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet, tangy cranberries and crunchy almonds creates a flavor explosion that’s perfect for breakfast or tea time. Each bite is a delightful experience!
- Perfectly Flaky Texture: Thanks to the cold butter and careful mixing, you’ll achieve that dreamy, flaky texture that makes scones so irresistible.
- Versatile: Feel free to switch up the ingredients! You can substitute cranberries with blueberries or even throw in some chocolate chips for a fun twist.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a brunch, enjoying a cozy afternoon tea, or just treating yourself, these scones are a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance and freeze it! Just slice and bake when you’re ready for fresh scones without the fuss.
Tips for Success
If you want to take your Cranberry Almond Scones from good to absolutely phenomenal, I’ve got some pro tips just for you! Trust me, these little tricks will make all the difference.
- Use Cold Ingredients: Keeping your butter and cream cold is key to achieving that flaky texture. If your butter gets too warm, it won’t create those lovely layers, so keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it!
- Don’t Overmix: I can’t stress this enough! When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough scones, and we want them to be soft and tender!
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to get creative! Add a teaspoon of almond extract for an extra nutty punch, or mix in some orange zest for a citrusy twist. The possibilities are endless!
- Check Your Oven: Every oven is a bit different, so keep an eye on your scones as they bake. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time. You want golden brown edges and a slight bounce when you touch them.
- Serve Warm: Scones are best enjoyed fresh and warm from the oven. Serve them with a pat of butter, a dollop of cream, or even some homemade jam for a delightful treat!
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers (which is rare, I know!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for a quick breakfast option later on!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress with your Cranberry Almond Scones. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each Cranberry Almond Scone. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use, but this should give you a good idea:
- Calories: Approximately 220
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 3g
Remember, this is just an estimate to help you plan your meals. Enjoy your delicious scones guilt-free and revel in the wonderful flavors they bring to your breakfast or tea time!
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’ve got questions about making these delightful Cranberry Almond Scones, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my answers to help you bake like a pro.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh cranberries can work, but keep in mind they’re more tart than dried ones. You might want to add a little extra sugar to balance out that tartness. Just chop them up a bit to make sure they distribute evenly!
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No problem! You can substitute with whole milk or buttermilk. The scones might be slightly less rich, but they’ll still turn out delicious. If you use milk, maybe add a little extra butter to keep them moist.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, shape it into a circle, wrap it tightly, and freeze it for up to a month. When you’re ready to bake, just slice and pop them in the oven straight from the freezer. They’ll be fresh and fantastic!
How do I know when the scones are done baking?
Great question! You’ll want to look for a lovely golden-brown color on top and edges. When you gently press on them, they should spring back slightly. If they still feel wet or soft, give them another minute or two, but keep an eye on them!
Can I add other ingredients?
Yes, yes, yes! Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, orange zest, or even different nuts. The beauty of scones is their versatility—get creative and make them your own!
How should I store leftover scones?
Store your leftover Cranberry Almond Scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap them well and freeze for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
I hope this helps answer your burning questions! Now go ahead and get baking those scrumptious Cranberry Almond Scones—you’re gonna love them!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve made those delicious Cranberry Almond Scones, you might be wondering how to store them properly to keep that fresh-baked taste. Here’s the scoop!
First off, if you have any leftovers (which is rare, let’s be honest), let the scones cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents them from getting soggy in storage. Once they’re cool, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, I recommend wrapping each scone tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months!
When you’re ready to enjoy your scones again, you have a couple of options for reheating. If you prefer that fresh-from-the-oven taste, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the scones on a baking sheet. Warm them up for about 5-10 minutes until they’re just heated through. This will help restore their flaky texture.
If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave them for about 15-20 seconds. Just be careful not to overdo it, or they might become a bit tough. I always find that a quick warm-up in the oven is worth the wait for that perfect scone experience!
So go ahead and savor those Cranberry Almond Scones anytime you want, knowing they’ll taste just as delightful as when they first came out of the oven!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying my Cranberry Almond Scones, the right pairings can really elevate your experience! Here are some of my favorite suggestions that complement these delightful scones beautifully.
- A Cup of Tea: Nothing beats a warm scone with a steaming cup of tea! Earl Grey, chamomile, or a fruity herbal blend are all fantastic choices. The flavors harmonize perfectly, making for a cozy moment.
- Coffee Lover’s Delight: If tea isn’t your thing, a rich cup of coffee or a creamy latte is a wonderful alternative. The roasted notes of coffee pair splendidly with the sweetness of the scones.
- Spread It On: A generous spread of clotted cream or butter adds a luxurious touch. You can also try a dollop of fruit preserves like raspberry or apricot for an extra layer of flavor!
- Fruits and Yogurt: Serve your scones alongside fresh seasonal fruits like berries or sliced peaches and a dollop of yogurt. This adds a refreshing, tangy contrast that balances the sweetness of the scones.
- Brunch Spread: If you’re hosting a brunch, consider serving the scones with a cheese platter featuring creamy brie or sharp cheddar. Add some charcuterie for a savory touch that your guests will love!
- Sweet Treats: For dessert lovers, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side can turn your scone into a delightful dessert. Just imagine the warm scone melting into the cold cream—heavenly!
Whatever you choose to pair with your Cranberry Almond Scones, I promise it’ll elevate your enjoyment and make every bite even more delicious. Happy indulging!
Print
Cranberry Almond Scones: 5 Steps to Irresistible Bliss
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones 1x
- Category: Bakery
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious cranberry almond scones perfect for breakfast or tea time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add cold butter and mix until crumbly.
- Stir in cranberries and almonds.
- In another bowl, whisk cream, egg, and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and shape into a circle.
- Cut into wedges and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- Best served fresh.
- Can substitute cranberries with blueberries.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Cranberry Almond Scones, scones, breakfast, tea time