Walnut Cranberry Scones Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, irresistible treat that brings together nutty crunch and subtle sweetness, these Walnut Cranberry Scones are exactly what you need. They strike the perfect balance between tender, flaky crumb and delightful bursts of tart cranberries paired with rich, toasted walnuts. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, their golden tops and comforting aroma make them an instant favorite. Trust me, once you try these scones, they’ll become your go-to recipe whenever you crave something warm and wholesome!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the secret behind these scones’ amazing flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role: from the flaky texture created by cold butter to the sweet-tart pop of cranberries and the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the sturdy base of your scones, providing structure and tenderness.
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the tart cranberries without overpowering.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: This gives your scones the lift and lightness that make every bite fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Key for that flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture—cold butter is a must!
• 3/4 cup walnuts, chopped: Adds a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor that perfectly complements the cranberries.
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries: Tangy bursts of sweetness that bring vibrant color and flavor.
• 2/3 cup heavy cream: Brings moisture and richness, helping the dough come together beautifully.
• 1 large egg: For binding the ingredients and adding a tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with a warm, fragrant note.
• Additional heavy cream for brushing: Creates a gorgeous golden crust once baked.
• Turbinado sugar for sprinkling (optional): Adds a lovely sparkle and crunch on top.

How to Make Walnut Cranberry Scones

Step 1: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of leavening and seasoning, so your scones rise beautifully and taste perfectly balanced.

Step 2: Incorporate the Butter

Now comes the fun part! Add your cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Those tiny butter pockets are what create flaky layers in the scones, so be patient and keep the butter as cold as possible for best results.

Step 3: Add the Walnuts and Cranberries

Stir in the chopped walnuts and dried cranberries gently so they’re evenly distributed. The walnuts offer a delightful crunch while the cranberries inject juicy little bursts of tartness. Together, they make your scones taste like autumn in every bite.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creamy blend will moisten your dry ingredients, binding everything into a tender dough packed with flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix — a slightly shaggy dough means your scones will be light and flaky rather than tough.

Step 6: Shape and Cut the Dough

Transfer your dough onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a round disk about 1 inch thick. Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the disk into 8 even wedges. Arranging the wedges on your prepared baking sheet ensures they bake evenly and develop those classic scone edges.

Step 7: Add the Finishing Touches and Bake

Brush the tops of the scones with additional heavy cream to encourage a golden, shiny crust. For an extra bit of crunch and sparkle, sprinkle turbinado sugar over the tops if you like. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the scones are beautifully golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

How to Serve Walnut Cranberry Scones

Garnishes

These scones are delightful just as they are, but if you want to dress them up a bit, try serving with a pat of softened butter or a drizzle of honey. A light dusting of powdered sugar can add a pretty finishing touch perfect for special occasions.

Side Dishes

Pair your Walnut Cranberry Scones with a hot cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee for a comforting break. Fresh fruit, like sliced apples or pears, complements the nutty-sweet flavors beautifully, while a dollop of cream or clotted cream turns it into a decadent treat.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a brunch or gathering, serve the scones on a tiered stand alongside small bowls of jam, clotted cream, or lemon curd to let everyone customize their own bites. Wrapping individual scones in parchment paper with a festive ribbon also makes a charming edible gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is rare because these scones are so good!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and retains that tender crumb.

Freezing

To freeze, place unbaked or baked scones on a baking sheet and flash freeze until solid, about an hour. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, bake straight from frozen or warm baked scones gently.

Reheating

Reheat scones in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes to bring back their fresh-from-the-oven warmth and crisp exterior. A quick zap in the microwave works too, but may soften the crust slightly.

FAQs

Can I substitute dried cranberries with fresh ones?

Fresh cranberries have more moisture and a sharper tartness, which can affect the dough consistency and baking time. It’s best to stick with dried cranberries for this recipe to maintain the perfect texture and flavor balance.

Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work wonderfully too, offering their own unique crunch and flavor. Just make sure to chop them roughly like the walnuts to keep an even texture throughout your scones.

Is it necessary to use cold butter?

Yes, using cold butter is essential. It prevents it from fully mixing into the dough and creates pockets of fat that melt during baking, giving your scones that flaky, tender texture.

How can I make these scones vegan?

You can swap heavy cream with coconut cream or a thick plant-based cream and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Keep in mind the texture might be slightly different but still delicious!

Can these scones be made gluten-free?

Yes, by using a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, you can make tasty gluten-free Walnut Cranberry Scones. Just ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free and consider adding a bit of xanthan gum for better texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so heartwarming about baking up a batch of Walnut Cranberry Scones that you can share with friends and family. Their cozy flavor, tender crumb, and that satisfying nutty-tart combo make each bite a little moment of joy. Give this recipe a try—I promise these scones will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen, brightening any morning or afternoon tea with their delightful charm.

Print