🧑🍳 Ingredients (Makes 8 scones)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ cup raisins
- Zest of 1 large orange (about 1 tbsp)
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup heavy cream or whole milk (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp fresh orange juice
- ½ tsp orange zest
🥮 Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix dry ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Cut in the butter – Add cold butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add raisins and orange zest – Stir in the raisins and zest for even distribution.
Combine wet ingredients – In a small bowl, whisk egg, cream, and vanilla. Add to the dry mix and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix!
Form the dough – Turn onto a floured surface and gently shape into a 7-inch circle, about 1 inch thick.
Cut and bake – Cut into 8 wedges (like a pizza) and place on the baking sheet. Brush tops with cream and bake for 18–22 minutes , until golden.
Optional glaze – Mix powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest. Drizzle over cooled scones.
Tips for the Best Scones
- Use cold butter and cold cream — this creates steam in the oven for a flakier texture .
- Don’t overwork the dough — overmixing leads to tough scones .
- For extra plump raisins, soak them in warm water or orange juice for 10 minutes, then drain before adding.
- Serve warm — these are best the day they’re made!
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days , or freeze for 1 month .
Ways to Customize Your Scones
Love the base recipe? Try these fun twists:
- 🍓 Cranberry Orange – Swap raisins for dried cranberries
- 🍊 Orange Poppy Seed – Add 1 tbsp poppy seeds to the dough
- 🍯 Honey Glaze – Use honey instead of orange juice in the glaze
- 🌿 Herb-Infused – Add a pinch of rosemary for a savory-sweet twist
- 🥛 Dairy-Free – Use coconut cream and vegan butter
What to Serve With Orange Raisin Scones
These scones pair beautifully with:
- A steaming cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea ☕
- Clotted cream and jam – Go full British afternoon tea style
- Greek yogurt and honey – For a lighter breakfast option
- A latte or cappuccino – Perfect for weekend brunch
They’re also a heartfelt homemade gift — wrap a few in parchment paper and tie with twine for a sweet surprise.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can I use dried orange peel instead of fresh zest?
Yes, but fresh zest gives the best flavor and aroma. Dried peel is more concentrated — use half the amount.
❓ Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Shape the dough, wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Bake straight from the fridge — just add 2–3 minutes to baking time.
❓ Can I freeze the scones?
Absolutely! Freeze unbaked scones on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen — add 3–5 minutes to baking time.
❓ Why are my scones dry?
Likely causes: overmixing, too much flour, or overbaking. Measure flour with a scale or spoon-and-level method.
Final Thoughts
These Orange Raisin Scones are more than just a recipe — they’re a little promise kept , a warm hug in pastry form , and a reminder that simple ingredients can create something truly special .
And don’t worry — your oil scones recipe is on the way. ❤️ I can’t wait to share that one with you too.
For now, grab your mixing bowl, zest that orange, and treat yourself to a batch of flaky, citrus-kissed goodness .
Because sometimes, the best moments start with a warm scone and a good cup of tea.