Walnut Cranberry Scones Recipe

If you adore treats that are both cozy and bursting with flavor, these Walnut Cranberry Scones are about to become your new favorite. Tender, buttery, and perfectly crumbly, they strike the ideal balance between nutty richness and bursts of tart cranberries, making every bite a little moment of joy. Whether you’re looking to brighten up a lazy weekend morning or impress guests at a brunch, Walnut Cranberry Scones offer that delightful homemade charm with surprisingly simple ingredients and straightforward steps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Walnut Cranberry Scones recipe plays a crucial role, combining to deliver that signature flaky texture, sweetness, and depth of flavor that scones are celebrated for. From the cold butter that creates delicate layers to the dried cranberries for a tangy contrast, every item is essential.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour 🌾: The foundation that gives structure to your scones while keeping them tender.
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar 🍬: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tart cranberries.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder 🥄: Helps the scones rise and become wonderfully fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂: Enhances all flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed 🧈: The star ingredient for that classic flaky texture—keep it chilled for best results.
• 3/4 cup walnuts, chopped 🌰: Adds a lovely crunch and nutty depth.
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries 🍒: Bursts of tart sweetness that brighten every bite.
• 2/3 cup heavy cream 🥛: Brings moisture and richness to the dough.
• 1 large egg 🥚: Binds the ingredients together and adds extra tenderness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌼: Provides a warm, aromatic undertone.
• Additional heavy cream for brushing 🥛: Creates a gorgeous golden sheen when baked.
• Turbinado sugar for sprinkling (optional) ✨: Adds a delightful crunch and pretty sparkle on top.

How to Make Walnut Cranberry Scones

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Mixing Bowls

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking. Setting this up early ensures everything flows smoothly once your dough is ready.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. These pantry staples lay the groundwork for your scones’ perfect rise and balanced flavor.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Those little butter pockets are exactly what create tender, flaky layers as they melt in the oven.

Step 4: Add the Walnuts and Cranberries

Stir in the chopped walnuts and dried cranberries next, ensuring they’re evenly distributed for consistent flavor and texture in every bite.

Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. This will add richness and help bind the dough together gently.

Step 6: Form the Dough

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as that can lead to tough scones instead of tender ones.

Step 7: Shape and Cut

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a round disk about 1-inch thick. Cut the disk into 8 equal wedges to form those classic scone shapes that bake evenly.

Step 8: Final Touches Before Baking

Place the wedges on your prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with additional heavy cream for a beautiful golden crust. Sprinkle turbinado sugar on top if you like a bit of extra crunch and sparkle.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the scones turn golden brown. The warm aroma alone will have you eager to taste these delightful Walnut Cranberry Scones straight from the oven.

How to Serve Walnut Cranberry Scones

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can elevate these scones, but a dollop of clotted cream or cream cheese spread really complements their buttery, nutty flavor beautifully. Fresh cranberries or chopped walnuts on the side add an inviting rustic touch as well.

Side Dishes

Pair Walnut Cranberry Scones with a steaming cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee for the ultimate cozy experience. For a heartier brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a fruit salad bursting with seasonal flavors to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try sandwiching your scones with a smear of mascarpone and a spoonful of cranberry jam for a treat that looks as impressive as it tastes. You could even toast them lightly and top with a slice of aged cheddar for a savory twist that’s surprisingly delightful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Walnut Cranberry Scones stay fresh when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and tender, perfect for enjoying over a couple of mornings or afternoon snacks.

Freezing

If you want to keep these scones for longer, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen scones will maintain their flavor and texture for about 2 months, making them an easy bake-ahead treat whenever you crave one.

Reheating

To enjoy your scones warm, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving when possible, as the oven will help restore that fresh-from-the-bakery crispness beautifully.

FAQs

Can I substitute the walnuts with another nut?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds make great alternatives and offer a slightly different but equally delicious crunch and flavor profile. Just be mindful of their roasting times if you choose to toast them before adding.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or a combination of milk and melted butter for a lighter version, though the scones won’t be quite as rich and tender.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries can be used, but since they have more moisture, it’s best to reduce the amount slightly or toss them in a bit of flour to keep the dough from becoming too wet.

How do I keep scones from becoming dry?

Handling the dough gently and avoiding overmixing are key to tender scones. Also, be sure not to overbake, as even a few extra minutes in the oven can dry them out.

Are Walnut Cranberry Scones suitable for freezing after baking?

Yes! Allow them to cool completely, then freeze individually wrapped. This way, you get to enjoy fresh-tasting scones anytime with minimal effort.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a warm, comforting bake that’s just the right mix of sweet and tangy with a satisfying crunch, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try these Walnut Cranberry Scones. They’re a wonderful way to bring a touch of homemade goodness into your day and impress anyone lucky enough to share them with you. Happy baking!

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