These Cranberry Chocolate Scones are perfect for cozy fall or winter mornings. With a combination of tart cranberries, rich chocolate, and a zesty orange glaze, these flaky scones offer a festive and flavorful treat. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful snack, these scones are quick to whip up and even easier to enjoy.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 4 tsp baking powder
• 3/4 cup cold butter, grated
• 3/4 cup milk or dark chocolate pieces (or chopped chocolate bar, or chocolate chips)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1 egg
• 1 cup 2% milk
• Extra milk for brushing

For the Orange Glaze:

• 1/2 cup icing sugar
• 2 tbsp icing sugar
• 4 tsp fresh squeezed orange juice

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Stir to mix.
3. Grate the butter into the flour mixture. Use your fingers to combine until the butter forms small pieces.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
5. Pour the milk/egg mixture into the dry ingredients and stir a couple of turns with a wooden spoon.
6. Add the chopped chocolate and dried cranberries, mixing until the dough just comes together.
7. Shape the dough into a ball and place it on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten it into an 8-inch circle.
8. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 triangles. Arrange the scones on the baking sheet.
9. Brush the tops of the scones with a little milk.
10. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
11. Cool for at least 20 minutes before icing.
12. For the glaze, whisk together icing sugar and orange juice.
13. Drizzle the glaze over the scones and let it set before serving. Enjoy!

Nutritional Value (per scone, approximate)

• Calories: 300–350 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 40–45g
• Protein: 4–5g
• Fat: 15–20g
  • Saturated Fat: 9–12g
• Fiber: 2–3g
• Sugar: 18–22g
• Cholesterol: 30–35mg
• Sodium: 200–250mg

Why These Cranberry Chocolate Scones Are a Must-Make

There’s a reason scones are a classic treat—they’re easy to make, perfectly customizable, and always a hit with friends and family. But these Cranberry Chocolate Scones take the traditional recipe to the next level by adding a few extra elements that elevate the flavor. The tartness of the dried cranberries contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate chunks, while the hint of orange in the glaze ties everything together with a bright, citrusy finish. These scones are not only delicious but visually stunning as well, with the vibrant pop of red cranberries and the glossy glaze making them an excellent addition to any holiday spread or brunch table.

Flaky Texture and Perfectly Balanced Flavor

One of the key features of these scones is their flaky texture. The grated cold butter in the dough ensures that each bite is light and tender, while the combination of chocolate and cranberries provides an exciting burst of flavor. The sweetness of the chocolate and the slight tartness of the cranberries create a balanced taste that appeals to a wide range of palates. Plus, the fresh orange glaze adds a refreshing touch that perfectly complements the richness of the scone’s dough.

A Versatile Recipe for Any Occasion

Not only are these Cranberry Chocolate Scones the perfect seasonal treat, but they’re also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. For example, if you prefer dark chocolate over milk or white chocolate, feel free to substitute it. You can also experiment with different fruits—dried cherries or blueberries would work just as wonderfully. If you’re in the mood for a more indulgent treat, you can even add a handful of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to give the scones an extra crunch.

Whether served with a warm drink during the holidays or as part of a lazy weekend brunch, these scones are guaranteed to impress your guests—or make your own morning routine just a little bit sweeter.

The Benefits of Baking Your Own Scones

While store-bought pastries might seem convenient, there’s something special about making scones from scratch. Homemade scones offer a level of freshness and quality that store-bought versions often lack. When you bake scones at home, you can control the ingredients and avoid unnecessary preservatives, making for a much healthier option. Plus, baking allows you to fill your kitchen with the mouth-watering aroma of freshly baked goods—something that store-bought pastries simply can’t replicate.

Scones are also incredibly versatile when it comes to portion control. By making your own scones, you can choose the size and shape that suits your needs, whether you want large, indulgent treats or smaller, bite-sized snacks. The ability to adjust sweetness levels, fat content, and texture gives you full creative control over the recipe.

In addition, the baking process itself is an enjoyable activity for many. It’s a chance to slow down, be creative, and practice the art of pastry-making. Scones are relatively simple to make, even for novice bakers, and the end result is always satisfying. This Cranberry Chocolate Scone recipe strikes the perfect balance between ease and indulgence—something you’ll want to make time and time again.

Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve With Your Cranberry Chocolate Scones

These Cranberry Chocolate Scones are perfect on their own, but they can also be paired with various drinks and side dishes to make a more substantial meal or treat. Here are some of the best pairing ideas:

• Hot Beverages: Serve these scones alongside a cup of tea, such as a classic Earl Grey or a fragrant chai. The warmth of the tea enhances the comforting experience of the scone. Alternatively, a coffee or hot chocolate will complement the rich chocolate in the scones while balancing out their sweetness.
• Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh fruit can add a light, refreshing element to the meal. Sliced apples, pears, or berries would contrast nicely with the richness of the scones, offering a nice balance to your snack or breakfast.
• Cheese: For those who enjoy the sweet-and-savory combination, a small cheese platter featuring brie or goat cheese is an excellent choice. The creamy texture of the cheese pairs wonderfully with the tartness of the cranberries and the richness of the chocolate.

These scones also make for a great addition to a brunch spread. Pair them with a savory dish like scrambled eggs, quiche, or even avocado toast to create a well-rounded and satisfying brunch.

Making Cranberry Chocolate Scones Ahead of Time

One of the best aspects of this recipe is that you can make it in advance. Whether you want to prep for a busy morning or get a head start on a brunch party, these scones can be prepared ahead of time in several ways:

• Make-Ahead Dough: You can prepare the scone dough up to the point of baking and then store it in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply shape the dough into a circle, cut into triangles, and bake as directed. This allows for a quick, fresh treat without the stress of preparing everything in the morning.
• Frozen Scones: If you want to bake the scones at a later time, you can freeze them after cutting them into triangles. Just place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to a month. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw them—just bake them directly from the freezer for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.

These methods ensure that you can enjoy freshly baked scones at your convenience, whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or just as a treat for yourself.

Conclusion

These Cranberry Chocolate Scones are a perfect blend of festive flavors and delightful textures, making them an ideal treat for fall and winter. Whether you’re enjoying them on a quiet morning, sharing them with loved ones, or serving them at a brunch, they are sure to impress. With their flaky, buttery texture, tangy cranberries, and indulgent chocolate, they are a true crowd-pleaser. The addition of a bright orange glaze brings a touch of freshness that elevates the entire dish.

Homemade scones like these offer many benefits—control over ingredients, the satisfaction of baking from scratch, and the joy of sharing a delicious creation with others. So the next time you’re in the mood for a comforting, flavorful treat, give these Cranberry Chocolate Scones a try. You’ll be glad you did!