Orange Scone
Bright and citrusy orange scones with a tender crumb, perfect for breakfast or teatime, offering a delightful blend of orange zest and sweet sugar flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl; cut in margarine with a pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse meal.
- Add the lemon low-fat yogurt, orange juice, and grated orange peel to the dry ingredients, stirring just until moistened.
- The dough will be sticky.
- With floured hands, pat the dough into a 9-inch circle on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray.
- Cut the dough into 10 wedges, cutting into but not through.
- Sprinkle the wedges with the remaining teaspoon of sugar.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use cold margarine and work quickly to avoid warming the dough. If you don't have low-fat yogurt, Greek yogurt can be a good substitute, adding a rich flavor. You can also replace half the orange juice with buttermilk for added moisture and tang. If oranges aren't available, any citrus zest like lemon or lime can work well in this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these orange scones warm with a dollop of butter or a spread of your favorite jam. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for breakfast or an afternoon snack. For a delightful brunch, consider serving them alongside a light salad, like the Festive Pumpkin Salad, to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Scone contains roughly 176 calories, with 0g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 799mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these scones ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just shape the dough into a circle, wrap it in plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. Bake them fresh when you're ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of orange juice?
If you don't have orange juice, lemon juice can be a suitable alternative, though it will give a more tart flavor. You could also use apple juice or a citrus blend for a different twist, keeping the balance of wet ingredients similar.
How do I know when the scones are done baking?
The scones are done when they are golden brown on top and firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they are ready. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking to prevent over-browning.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).