Are you looking for a delicious gluten-free treat that’s perfect for the holiday season? Look no further than these Gluten Free Cranberry Scones With Orange Icing! Not only are they perfect for a cozy morning breakfast or an afternoon snack, but they also make a stunning addition to your holiday dessert table. The combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange icing is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. Let’s dive into the recipe and get baking!
Gluten-Free Cranberry Scones with Tangy Orange Icing
Soft, buttery gluten-free cranberry orange scones made with fresh cranberries, bright citrus zest, and a sweet orange glaze. Perfectly tender, lightly crisp on the edges, and naturally dairy-free adaptable. A festive breakfast or brunch treat!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scones:
2 cups gluten-free flour blend
1/2 cup cane sugar
2 teaspoons aluminum-free baking powder
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk or non-dairy milk
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup unsalted butter (or plant-based butter)
2/3 cup fresh cranberries
1 tablespoon orange zest
Icing:
3/4 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons orange juice with pulp (more if needed)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, cane sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter chunks and cut into the dry mixture using a pastry cutter until crumbly.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, orange zest, and vanilla.
5. Pour wet mixture into dry mixture, add cranberries, and mix into a soft dough.
6. Transfer dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet and shape into a 1.5-inch thick circle.
7. Score into 8 wedges without cutting fully through.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until lightly golden and set.
9. Remove from oven and cut fully along score lines. Cool on a rack.
10. Prepare icing by whisking powdered sugar with orange juice until smooth.
11. Drizzle icing over completely cooled scones.
Notes
Tested using King Arthur Measure-for-Measure flour.
If using a GF blend without xanthan gum or guar gum, add 3/4 teaspoon.
Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk for dairy-free scones.
Frozen cranberries can be used—thaw and drain before mixing into dough.
Store in an airtight container up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months.
Expert Tips:
- For a dairy-free version, you can use coconut oil in place of butter and a non-dairy milk of your choice.
- Feel free to add a sprinkle of orange zest to the scone dough for an extra burst of flavor.
- Make sure your butter is cold when making the scones for the best texture.
- Don’t overwork the dough – just mix until everything is combined to ensure a tender scone.
Storage & Substitutions:
These Gluten Free Cranberry Scones With Orange Icing are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are made. However, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Simply reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to enjoy them warm and delicious.
FAQ:
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries in this recipe. Just chop them up into smaller pieces before adding them to the dough.
Can I freeze the scones?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked scones on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I skip the orange icing?
While the orange icing adds a lovely citrusy touch to these scones, you can skip it if you prefer. The scones are delicious on their own or served with a dollop of whipped cream or jam.
How can I make the icing thicker?
If you prefer a thicker icing, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency. You can also chill the icing in the refrigerator for a few minutes to help it set up.
Can I use a different type of icing?
Of course! Feel free to customize the icing to suit your tastes. A simple vanilla glaze or a lemon icing would also complement these scones beautifully.
These Gluten Free Cranberry Scones With Orange Icing are a delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea in the morning or serving them as a festive dessert, they are sure to be a hit with everyone. Get creative with your flavors and decorations to make these scones your own signature treat. We hope you enjoy baking and indulging in these delicious gluten-free scones!
