If you’re looking for a delightful treat to brighten up your morning or add a touch of elegance to your tea time, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Cranberry Almond Scones! Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked scones wafting through your kitchen. The combination of tart cranberries and crunchy almonds is simply divine, and when you bite into one, you’ll experience that lovely crumbly texture that melts in your mouth. I remember the first time I made these scones—I was hosting a little brunch for friends, and they vanished faster than I could serve them! Honestly, they’re so easy to whip up, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made them sooner. So, grab your apron and let’s get started on these delicious scones that are bound to impress!
Ingredients for Cranberry Almond Scones
- 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
Tip: Make sure your butter is really cold—it helps create those flaky layers that make scones irresistible! Also, don’t forget to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results. You’ll find everything you need right here to create your own batch of these tasty scones!
How to Prepare Cranberry Almond Scones
- First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). You want it nice and hot before those scones go in!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
- Now, it’s time for the butter! Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This is where the magic happens for that flaky texture!
- Next, toss in the dried cranberries and sliced almonds, and mix gently to distribute them evenly throughout the dough.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until well blended. You’ll love the creamy aroma that comes from this mixture!
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want tender scones, not tough ones!
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a couple of times to bring it together, then shape it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Don’t stress if it’s not perfect; rustic is totally fine here!
- Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into wedges. Place each wedge on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them a little space to spread.
- Pop them in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and your kitchen smells absolutely heavenly.
- Once baked, let the scones cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This little cooling time is key before diving in!
And there you have it! Your Cranberry Almond Scones are ready to be enjoyed. Just wait until you taste that perfect crumb and the delightful crunch of almonds paired with the sweet-tart cranberries. Yum!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—these scones come together in just about 35 minutes!
- Deliciously balanced flavor with the tartness of cranberries and the nuttiness of almonds.
- Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon tea party with friends.
- They’re great for sharing—trust me, your guests will be asking for the recipe!
- Easy to customize; feel free to swap cranberries for blueberries or add your favorite spices.
- These scones freeze beautifully, so you can have a batch ready for whenever you get that craving!
- Golden brown and flaky, they’re a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee.
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to bake, here are some of my best tips to ensure your Cranberry Almond Scones turn out perfectly every time:
- Keep it cold: Make sure your butter is super cold when you mix it in. This is key for achieving those flaky layers that make scones so delicious. If you can, pop your butter in the freezer for a few minutes before using it!
- Don’t overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, be gentle! You want just enough mixing to combine everything without overworking the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough scones, and nobody wants that!
- Flour your surface: When you’re shaping the dough, make sure to flour your work surface to prevent sticking. A little extra flour goes a long way in keeping your scones from getting gummy.
- Shape with care: When shaping your dough into a circle, don’t worry about making it perfectly round. Scones are meant to be rustic! Just keep it about 1-inch thick for a nice bake.
- Watch the oven: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your scones as they bake! You’re looking for that golden-brown color and a lovely aroma wafting through your kitchen.
- Cool before serving: Letting them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes helps maintain their texture. Plus, they’re easier to handle when they’re not piping hot!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set for scone success! Enjoy the process—baking should be fun and rewarding!
Variations of Cranberry Almond Scones
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to switch up your Cranberry Almond Scones! Here are some of my favorite variations that you can try:
- Blueberry Bliss: Swap out the dried cranberries for fresh or dried blueberries. They’ll give your scones a lovely burst of sweetness!
- Spiced Delight: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, cozy flavor. Perfect for those chilly mornings!
- Citrus Zing: Incorporate some lemon or orange zest into the dough for a bright, refreshing twist. The citrus pairs beautifully with the almonds!
- Chocolate Chip Heaven: Toss in some chocolate chips along with the cranberries for a decadent scone that satisfies any sweet tooth.
- Nutty Addition: Mix in other nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor. Just chop them up and fold them in with the cranberries and almonds.
- Herb Infusion: For a savory twist, add some finely chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme. These would be amazing served with cheese!
The beauty of these scones is their versatility! Feel free to get creative and adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Each variation brings a unique flair, making every batch a delightful surprise!
Serving Suggestions
Now that your Cranberry Almond Scones are baked and ready to go, let’s talk about how to serve them for the ultimate experience! These scones are not just delicious on their own; they pair beautifully with a few delightful accompaniments.
- Tea Time: There’s something so classic about enjoying scones with a warm cup of tea. Whether you prefer Earl Grey, chamomile, or a rich black tea, the flavors complement each other wonderfully.
- Coffee Lovers: If you’re more of a coffee person, serve your scones alongside a freshly brewed cup of your favorite blend. The nuttiness of the almonds will enhance the coffee flavors!
- Fruit Spreads: A dollop of homemade berry jam or a tangy citrus marmalade on top of your scone can elevate your breakfast or afternoon snack. Trust me, the sweet and tart notes will be a hit!
- Whipped Cream: For a decadent treat, consider topping your scone with a generous scoop of whipped cream. It adds a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the crumbly scone.
- Cheese Plate: For a savory twist, serve your scones with a selection of cheeses. Cream cheese, goat cheese, or even a sharp cheddar can create a delightful contrast with the sweetness of the cranberries.
- Fresh Fruit: Add some fresh fruit on the side—think sliced strawberries, raspberries, or even a fruit salad. It adds a refreshing touch and makes your plate look absolutely stunning!
So, whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or a cozy tea time, these serving suggestions will surely enhance your Cranberry Almond Scone experience. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve whipped up a delightful batch of Cranberry Almond Scones, you might be wondering how to keep them fresh for later enjoyment. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with some simple storage tips!
First off, let your scones cool completely on a wire rack. This is super important because it prevents condensation from forming, which can make them soggy—yikes! Once they’re nice and cool, store your scones in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 days, although trust me, they probably won’t last that long!
If you want to keep your scones for a longer time, you can freeze them! Just wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one (or two!), just take them out of the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for a bit.
Now, if you want that fresh-baked taste when reheating, here’s what I recommend: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet and warm them up for about 5-10 minutes. This will help restore that lovely texture and flavor! You could also pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, but they won’t have that nice crispiness that comes from the oven.
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor your Cranberry Almond Scones any time the craving strikes. Enjoy every crumb!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying my Cranberry Almond Scones, it’s always good to know what you’re indulging in! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional data for one scone:
- Calories: 220
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But hey, when you’re indulging in something as delightful as these scones, it’s all about balance! Enjoy every bite without guilt!
FAQ About Cranberry Almond Scones
Got questions about making these scrumptious Cranberry Almond Scones? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my best answers:
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh cranberries will give a lovely tartness, but keep in mind they’re more watery. You might want to reduce the amount of cream slightly to balance the moisture.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No problem! You can substitute with whole milk or half-and-half. The scones might be a tad less rich, but they’ll still turn out wonderfully!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Just prepare the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just roll it out and cut into wedges.
How do I know when my scones are done baking?
Great question! You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown color on the tops, and when you tap them lightly, they should sound hollow. If they jiggle, they might need a few more minutes!
Can I add other mix-ins?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative! You can add chocolate chips, other nuts, or even a sprinkle of spices like cinnamon for a fun twist. Just be mindful not to overload the dough!
What’s the best way to store leftover scones?
To keep your scones fresh, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you want to save them longer, freeze them wrapped individually!
Can I make these scones gluten-free?
Sure! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure it has xanthan gum in it for the right texture. The scones may have a slightly different crumb, but they’ll still be delicious!
Do I need to serve them with anything?
While they’re fantastic on their own, pairing them with tea, coffee, or a fruit spread can elevate your experience. They’re versatile enough to enjoy however you like!
Hopefully, these FAQs help you on your scone-making journey! If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out. Happy baking!
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Cranberry Almond Scones: 7 Reasons to Love This Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones 1x
- 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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Bakery
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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