Name: Orange Scones
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed; 1 tablespoon orange zest (from 1–2 oranges); 2/3 cup heavy cream (plus more for brushing); 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2–3 tablespoons fresh orange juice; 1/2 teaspoon orange zest (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these scones come together with simple ingredients but taste like something from a bakery. The fresh orange zest and juice add brightness and aroma, while the rich buttery dough gives them that perfect crumbly texture. They’re not overly sweet, which makes them great for breakfast or a mid-afternoon snack. And since they don’t take long to bake, I can enjoy warm, homemade scones anytime.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
granulated sugar
baking powder
salt
cold unsalted butter
orange zest
heavy cream or buttermilk
egg
fresh orange juice
vanilla extract

For the glaze:
powdered sugar
fresh orange juice
orange zest (optional)

directions

I start by whisking together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
I cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or my fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
I stir in the orange zest to evenly distribute the citrus oils.
In a separate bowl, I whisk the cream, egg, orange juice, and vanilla. I pour this into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined.
I turn the dough out onto a floured surface, shape it into a round disc about 1 inch thick, and cut it into 8 wedges.
I place the scones on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush the tops with a bit of cream for a golden finish.
I bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, or until the scones are lightly browned and baked through.
Once slightly cooled, I drizzle them with a glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice, and a bit of zest if I want more citrus punch.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 8 scones and takes about 35 minutes total—15 minutes for prep and 15–20 minutes for baking. It’s perfect for weekend brunch or anytime I want a fresh-baked treat in under an hour.

Variations

Sometimes I add dried cranberries, chopped dark chocolate, or even poppy seeds to the dough for extra texture and flavor. When I want a richer scone, I use buttermilk instead of cream. I’ve also made mini versions for bite-sized treats at brunch or tea parties. The orange glaze can be thick and drizzly or thin and light depending on how much juice I mix in.

storage/reheating

I store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 4. To reheat, I warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes or microwave briefly just until soft and warm. I don’t recommend glazing them until just before serving if I’m planning to store or freeze them.

FAQs

Can I freeze orange scones?

Yes. I freeze them unbaked (after shaping) or baked (before glazing). For unbaked, I freeze on a tray first, then transfer to a bag. I bake them straight from frozen, adding a couple minutes to the baking time.

How do I keep scones from getting tough?

I handle the dough gently and avoid overmixing. Cold butter and minimal kneading are key to soft, tender scones.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

I’ve used buttermilk, whole milk, or even half-and-half. The texture may change slightly, but it still works well.

Can I make these sweeter?

Sure. I sometimes add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the dough or make a thicker glaze if I want a sweeter version.

How strong is the orange flavor?

It’s noticeable but not overpowering. I use zest and juice for balance. If I want more punch, I add extra zest or a drop of orange extract.

Conclusion

Orange Scones are one of those treats that feel special but are simple enough to whip up anytime. They’re soft, flavorful, and just the right amount of sweet. With a buttery base and a fresh citrus glaze, they brighten up any day—whether I’m hosting brunch or just craving a cozy moment with something homemade.