Orange Sugared Scones
Sweet, citrus-infused scones with dried currants and a hint of cinnamon, perfect for breakfast or brunch, appealing to those who enjoy flavorful baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup sugar, dried currants, and grated orange peel.
- Stir the sugar mixture into the flour mixture.
- Add the light sour cream and egg yolk; mix until just combined.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently a few times.
- Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick circle and cut into wedges.
- Place the wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg white.
- Sprinkle with remaining sugar if desired.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm or cooled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, be careful not to overmix the dough once the sour cream and egg are added. You can substitute dried cranberries for currants or raisins for a different flavor. If you don't have light sour cream, plain yogurt works well too. Adding a touch of vanilla extract can enhance the overall taste of the scones.
Serving Suggestions
These scones are delightful when served warm with butter or clotted cream. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. For a more indulgent treat, enjoy them alongside a slice of A Fine Toasted Coconut Cake for a sweet brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Sugared Scones contains roughly 451 calories, with 4g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is a good source of calcium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1680mg per serving (73% 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 use fresh orange juice instead of grated orange peel?
While fresh orange juice can add flavor, it won't provide the same intense orange essence as grated peel. If you prefer using juice, reduce the sour cream slightly to maintain the dough's consistency, and add a bit of zest for balance.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
You can use margarine or a plant-based butter substitute for a dairy-free version. For a healthier alternative, unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt can also be used, but this may alter the texture slightly, making it more cake-like.
How do I know when the scones are done baking?
The scones are ready when they are golden brown on the 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 perfectly baked.
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).