Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones: Soft, Citrusy, and Perfectly Flaky

If you love bakery-style scones that are tender on the inside and lightly crisp on the outside, these Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones will quickly become a favorite. Bursting with tart cranberries, fresh citrus flavor, and rich sour cream, this recipe creates scones that stay moist while delivering that classic crumbly texture everyone loves. Whether you’re baking for a winter breakfast, holiday brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat, these scones bring bright flavor and comforting warmth to the table.

Why You’ll Love Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones

These scones are everything a good scone should be—soft, buttery, and not overly sweet. The combination of creamy sour cream and zesty orange makes them special:

• Fresh citrus flavor in every bite

• Tart cranberries for a perfect sweet-tangy balance

• Tender, moist texture thanks to sour cream

• Easy, one-bowl dough

• Great for holiday mornings, gifting, or enjoying with tea

They’re simple enough for everyday baking yet delicious enough to feel like a bakery treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

• Zest of 1 large orange

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk, for brushing

• Coarse sugar, for topping (optional)

How to Make Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones

1. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add cold butter cubes and cut them into the flour using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture looks like crumbs.

2. Add Cranberries & Orange Zest

Stir in fresh cranberries and orange zest. The citrus aroma instantly brings these scones to life.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk the sour cream, egg, and vanilla. Pour the mixture into the dry ingredients and gently mix until a soft dough forms.

4. Shape Your Scones

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently pat it into a round disk about 1 inch thick. Slice into 8 triangles, just like a pizza.

5. Bake to Golden Perfection

Place scones on a lined baking sheet, brush with cream, and sprinkle with coarse sugar. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15–18 minutes, or until golden around the edges.

Tips for Perfect Scones

• Keep the butter cold for flaky layers.

• Don’t overmix—your dough should look a little shaggy.

• Freeze scones for 10 minutes before baking for extra lift.

• Drizzle with a simple orange glaze for added sweetness.

Serving Ideas

Serve these scones slightly warm with:

• Butter

• Honey

• Orange marmalade

• Whipped cream

• Hot tea or coffee

They’re also great for holiday brunch boards or wrapped as edible gifts.

Final Thoughts

These Cranberry Orange Sour Cream Scones bring together bright citrus, tart cranberries, and a rich, soft texture that makes them unforgettable. Whether it’s Christmas morning, a fall brunch, or a simple weekend breakfast, this recipe delivers bakery-quality scones with minimal effort. Moist, flavorful, and beautifully golden, they’re the perfect seasonal treat.