Sweet Cranberry Orange Scones -

Italian cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and comforting dishes. From the aromatic herbs of Tuscany to the seafood delicacies of the Amalfi Coast, Italian food has captured the hearts and palates of people everywhere. Among the many iconic dishes that define this culinary tradition, lasagna stands out as a beloved classic. A dish that carries with it a sense of home and warmth, lasagna is not just a meal but a symbol of Italian culture, often enjoyed during family gatherings and festive occasions.

Sweet Cranberry Orange Scones

Discover the art of making authentic Italian lasagna with our ultimate guide! This beloved dish represents the heart of Italian cooking, bringing together layers of fresh pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and quality cheeses. Learn about the essential ingredients, traditional techniques, and the history behind this comforting classic. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned cook, mastering this recipe will surely impress friends and family at your next gathering!

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Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

3/4 cup fresh cranberries, halved (or use dried cranberries if fresh are unavailable)

Zest of 1 large orange

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice

1/4 cup powdered sugar (for optional glaze)

1 teaspoon additional orange juice (for glaze, optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients until they are completely incorporated.

Incorporate the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the mixture. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingertips, blend the butter into the flour mixture. Continue until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter visible.

Add Cranberries and Zest: Gently fold in the halved cranberries and the zest of one orange using a spatula. Make sure the fruits are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of orange juice until fully combined and smooth.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, mix gently until all the flour is just incorporated. Avoid overmixing; the dough should be slightly sticky but come together well.

Shape the Dough: Dust a clean surface with flour and turn the dough onto it. Knead the dough gently a few times to form a cohesive mass. Pat it into a round disk about 1-inch thick. Use a sharp knife to cut the disk into wedges or a biscuit cutter for round shapes.

Bake the Scones: Place the shaped scones onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there's space between each scone. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown on top.

Make the Glaze (optional): While the scones are baking, prepare the glaze if desired. In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar with 1 teaspoon of orange juice. Mix until smooth, adjusting the consistency with additional sugar or juice if necessary.

Cool and Apply Glaze: Once the scones are baked, let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. If using the glaze, drizzle it over the warm scones for a delightful finish.

Serve and Enjoy: These scones are best served warm, accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee. Savor the delightful pairing of sweet cranberries and zesty orange that makes each bite a blissful treat!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | Makes 8 scones