These Orange Scones are tender, flaky, and infused with bright citrus flavor—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea. Made with simple pantry ingredients and finished with a touch of sweet glaze (optional), these scones bring a refreshing twist to a classic baked treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These orange scones are everything a good scone should be: buttery, crisp on the outside, and soft on the inside. The natural citrus notes add a fresh, zesty flavor without being overpowering. Easy to prepare and ready in under 30 minutes, they’re ideal for weekends, holidays, or anytime you want to enjoy homemade bakery-style goodness.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
4 tablespoons salted butter, cold, grated or cubed
½ cup heavy cream
Zest of 1 orange
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional glaze:

½ cup powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Cut in the butter: Add the cold grated or cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add wet ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest.
Combine the mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir just until a dough forms—do not overmix.
Shape the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat into a 1-inch thick circle. Cut into 8 wedges and transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown on top. Let cool slightly on a wire rack.
Optional glaze: Mix powdered sugar with orange juice until smooth. Drizzle over cooled scones before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 scones
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: 25–28 minutes
Calories: Approximately 230 kcal per scone (without glaze)

Variations

Chocolate chip orange scones: Fold in ½ cup mini chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
Cranberry-orange: Add ⅓ cup dried cranberries to the dough.
Almond-orange: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract and sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking.
Dairy-free: Use plant-based butter and cream alternatives.
Whole wheat: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a more hearty version.

storage/reheating

Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds. For longer storage, freeze unglazed scones for up to 1 month and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough, shape the scones, and refrigerate them overnight before baking the next day.

Why is my dough too dry or too wet?

Humidity, flour brand, and ingredient temperature can affect dough texture. If too dry, add a tablespoon of cream; if too wet, sprinkle in a little flour.

Can I use orange juice instead of zest?

Zest provides stronger flavor, but you can add a tablespoon of juice if zest is unavailable. Adjust the cream amount accordingly.

Do I have to use heavy cream?

Heavy cream gives the best texture, but you can use half-and-half or whole milk in a pinch.

What’s the best way to cut butter into the flour?

Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to incorporate butter while keeping it cold. Cold butter helps achieve a flaky texture.

How do I get the scones to rise nicely?

Handle the dough gently, don’t overwork it, and ensure your baking powder is fresh.

Can I make these scones gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredient amounts. Bake in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Should I brush the scones with anything before baking?

Brushing the tops with a bit of cream or egg wash can help them brown more beautifully.

Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, the scones are flavorful on their own, but the glaze adds a sweet finishing touch.

Conclusion

Orange Scones are a delightful balance of buttery richness and bright citrus flavor, making them a perfect homemade treat for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes and enjoy the fresh, comforting flavor of a bakery favorite right at home. Whether served plain or drizzled with glaze, they’re sure to impress.

Orange Scones

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Author: Olivia
Total Time: 28 minutes
Yield: 8 scones
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Orange Scones are tender, buttery, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor! Made with real orange zest and cream, they’re the perfect morning treat or afternoon snack. Whether you enjoy them with a glaze or plain, these scones are a refreshing twist on a classic bakery favorite.

Ingredients

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fingertips until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in orange zest.
Add heavy cream, vanilla, and orange juice (if using). Mix just until dough comes together.
Turn out onto a floured surface and gently shape into a 1-inch thick circle.
Cut into 8 wedges and place on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cool slightly and drizzle with orange glaze if desired.

Notes

Don’t overmix the dough to keep the scones tender.
For extra richness, brush tops with cream before baking.
Add dried cranberries or white chocolate chips for a fun twist!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Snack
Method: Baking