Name: Almond Flour Cranberry Orange Scones
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large eggs; ⅓ cup avocado oil; ¾ cup pure maple syrup; 2 tbsp orange zest; 2 tsp pure vanilla extract; 4 cups almond flour; ¾ cup tapioca flour; 2 tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp baking soda; 1 tsp sea salt; 1 cup dried cranberries; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp water or orange juice

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There’s nothing quite like walking into a cozy kitchen filled with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked scones. Soft, crumbly, and just the right amount of sweet, these Almond Flour Cranberry Orange Scones bring a delightful burst of flavor with every bite. The bright notes of orange zest mingle perfectly with the tartness of dried cranberries, creating a perfect treat for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. Picture these scones served alongside a steaming cup of tea, the golden crust and tender interior offering a comforting combination that’s impossible to resist.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Almond Flour Cranberry Orange Scones
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Almond Flour Cranberry Orange Scones

As I prepared this recipe, it reminded me of Sunday mornings at my grandmother’s house, where the kitchen was always bustling with chatter and laughter while batches of her scones lined the counter, warming hearts and bellies alike. The comforting scents wrapping around you like a cozy hug are what home baking is all about. I invite you to roll up your sleeves and experience the joy of making your own batch of Almond Flour Cranberry Orange Scones. You’re about to treat yourself and perhaps even share them with loved ones—let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just about 33 minutes, these scones are a breeze to whip up for breakfast or a snack.
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite combines the nuttiness of almond flour with juicy cranberries and zesty orange, a flavor explosion that sings with every mouthful.
Eye-Catching Appeal: These beautiful scones, with their vibrant bits of red and gold, demand attention on any table.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even an afternoon tea, they make an excellent treat anytime.
Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, these scones suit a variety of dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 large eggs: These bind the ingredients together and add moisture; room temperature eggs work best for even mixing.
⅓ cup avocado oil: This oil provides healthy fats and keeps the scones moist; you can substitute with melted coconut oil if needed.
¾ cup pure maple syrup: As a natural sweetener, it enhances the scones’ flavor while keeping them light; agave syrup can work as an alternative.
2 tbsp orange zest: The zest carries a robust citrus flavor that’s essential in these scones; fresh zest from navel oranges is highly recommended.
2 tsp pure vanilla extract: This adds depth to the flavor; be sure to use pure extract for the best results.
4 cups almond flour: The star of the show, it offers a delightful nutty flavor and a tender crumb; don’t substitute for regular flour if you want to keep it gluten-free.
¾ cup tapioca flour: This adds lightness and helps with the structure; arrowroot flour is a good substitute if you’re out of tapioca.
2 tsp baking powder: Ensures the scones rise well; double-check that it’s fresh for optimal fluffiness.
¼ tsp baking soda: A tiny bit helps balance the acidity of the maple syrup and ensures they are light.
1 tsp sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor; Himalayan salt works too.
1 cup dried cranberries: These provide a burst of tartness; look for unsweetened varieties to keep them healthier.
1 cup powdered sugar: For a simple glaze, this brings sweetness; you can use coconut sugar if you prefer a less sugary option.
2 tbsp water or orange juice: This is to mix with the powdered sugar for the glaze; orange juice adds an extra hint of citrus.

How to Make Almond Flour Cranberry Orange Scones

Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is crucial for ensuring your scones bake evenly and don’t stick, resulting in a golden-brown bottom that’s just delightful. As you prep, take a moment to smell those fresh oranges you’ll be zesting—it’s a small act that gets your taste buds excited for what’s to come!

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, tapioca flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures that the baking powder and soda are evenly distributed, which will help all the scones rise beautifully. The almond flour should feel soft and light, inviting you to dive deeper into the process of creating something special.

Whisk Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, crack the eggs and mix in the avocado oil, pure maple syrup, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined; this mixture should be slightly frothy. The vibrant orange zest will catch your eye, reminding you that flavor is just a blend away! This is where the magic happens—the combination of flavors will transform into something wonderfully aromatic in the oven.

Fold Together Gently: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and add the dried cranberries. Use a spatula to gently fold everything until just combined. Take care not to over-mix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. This creates that tender texture that makes scones so irresistible. A gentle hand will ensure your scones turn out fluffy and light.

Scoop and Shape: Using a large spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. You can use your hands to lightly shape them; they don’t need to be perfect! These rustic shapes help them to rise beautifully in the oven, creating a charming, homemade look that adds to their appeal.

Bake Until Golden: Place the scones in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers feel firm to the touch. Keep an eye out during the last few minutes; they’ll start to smell heavenly, and you’ll know they’re ready when they’re lightly golden on top. Letting them cool slightly on the pan before transferring to a cooling rack minimizes the risk of breaking.

Glaze and Serve: After the scones have cooled for about 10 minutes, mix the powdered sugar with water or orange juice until you achieve a glaze consistency. Drizzle over each scone generously. This adds a lovely sweetness while enhancing the citrus flavor; it’s the perfect finishing touch to your beautiful creations! Serve warm and enjoy the delicious feedback of happy faces around your table.

Storing & Reheating

To store your Almond Flour Cranberry Orange Scones, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. Make sure to use a container with a tight seal to maintain freshness. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual scones in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to three months. Reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes, or pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, ensuring they stay soft and delightful. Just know that the texture may change slightly upon reheating, but they’ll still taste fantastic!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Always measure almond flour accurately; improper amounts can lead to dense scones, so use the spoon-and-level method for precision.
If your dough feels too sticky, consider letting it chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Add in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips for a different flavor twist!
If you prefer a sweeter scone, increase the maple syrup by a couple of tablespoons, but taste as you go.
For a bakery-style finish, brush the tops of the scones with a little almond milk before baking for a golden sheen.

Making Almond Flour Cranberry Orange Scones offers a delightful way to indulge in a classic treat while hospitably surrounding yourself with friends and family. These scones are not just easy to prepare but are also versatile enough for various occasions, from holiday brunches to cozy coffee breaks. I encourage you to experiment with flavors and toppings; you can try different fruits or spices to make it your own! Bake, share, and enjoy the comfort that these scones provide.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use another type of flour instead of almond flour?

Almond flour is central to this recipe for its unique flavor and texture. If you need a substitute, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but be aware that the texture and flavor will differ. It might also require additional adjustments in liquid since almond flour absorbs moisture differently.

How can I make these scones sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter treat, simply increase the amount of maple syrup. You could also experiment by adding more cranberries or drizzling additional glaze made from powdered sugar for an extra sweet touch that pairs wonderfully with the tangy orange.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before scooping and baking to ensure even cooking.

What should I do if my scones are too dry?

To prevent dry scones, be careful not to overmix the dough, which can lead to dense scones. If they seem dry after baking, consider topping them with a fruit compote or the orange glaze for added moisture and flavor punch!