Starbucks Cranberry Orange Scones Copycat Recipe
This Starbucks Cranberry Orange Scones Copycat Recipe delivers tender, flaky scones bursting with fresh cranberries and bright orange zest. Perfect for breakfast or an indulgent snack, these scones are coated with a sweet orange glaze that adds a delightful citrus finish. Easy to make with pantry staples, they’re a cozy treat that pairs wonderfully with your morning coffee or tea.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Scones:
- 2 and 1/2 cups all purpose flour
- 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped (leave a few whole)
- Zest from one orange, divided (reserve 2 teaspoons for glaze)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 Tablespoons orange juice
- 2 teaspoons orange zest (reserved from above)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and orange zest. Reserve 2 teaspoons of orange zest for the glaze later.
- Cut in butter: Using clean hands or a pastry blender, cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is key for flaky scones.
- Mix dough: Add the buttermilk to the flour mixture and stir with a fork until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the scones tender.
- Fold in cranberries: Gently fold in the chopped cranberries, leaving a few whole for texture and visual appeal.
- Knead dough: Lightly flour your hands and the work surface. Press the dough into a ball and knead 6 to 8 times to bring it together without making it tough.
- Shape and cut: Pat the dough into a 10-inch circle. Using a pastry cutter, sharp knife, or pizza cutter, cut the dough into wedges.
- Arrange and egg wash: Separate the wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the lightly beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake: Bake at 425°F for 13 to 16 minutes until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly before glazing.
- Prepare glaze: In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, orange juice, and reserved 2 teaspoons of orange zest. Adjust with more powdered sugar or orange juice as needed to reach a drizzling consistency.
- Glaze scones: Use a spoon to drizzle the orange glaze over the slightly cooled scones. Serve and enjoy the perfect balance of tart cranberry and citrus sweetness!
Notes
- Ensure butter is very cold before cutting into the flour to achieve flaky layers.
- Do not overmix the dough; it should be soft but not sticky.
- Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture; frozen can be used but may add extra moisture.
- The orange glaze can be adjusted in thickness by adding more powdered sugar or orange juice to preference.
- Scones are best served warm on the day made but can be reheated gently before serving.
Keywords: Starbucks scones, cranberry orange scones, copycat recipe, breakfast scones, baked goods, brunch recipe, citrus glaze, homemade scones
