Orange Cardamom Cream Scones Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, elegant treat that feels like sunshine and spice wrapped into one, this Orange Cardamom Cream Scones Recipe is exactly what you need. These scones burst with bright orange zest and the warm, fragrant touch of cardamom, all enriched by a creamy, tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Perfect for a leisurely breakfast or an afternoon tea, these scones bring together simple ingredients to create an irresistible bakery-style delight that you can make right at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to unlocking the magic of these scones. Each component is straightforward yet essential, combining to give you that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and richness that defines the Orange Cardamom Cream Scones Recipe.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the scones, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to complement the citrus and spice.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the scones rise to a fluffy, light texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom: Adds a warm, aromatic depth that pairs beautifully with orange.
• Zest of 1 large orange: Bursts of bright citrus flavor and fresh fragrance.
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed: Key for that flaky, layered texture in each bite.
• 2/3 cup heavy cream: Contributes richness and moistness to the dough.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds tenderness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic complexity.
• Optional: 2 tablespoons coarse sugar for sprinkling: Gives a sparkling, crunchy finish on top.

How to Make Orange Cardamom Cream Scones Recipe

Step 1: Prepare your workspace and preheat the oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) — a hot oven is essential for that perfect rise and golden crust. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cardamom, and orange zest until everything is evenly combined. This ensures that every bite gets that lovely hint of spice and citrus.

Step 3: Cut in the cold butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture, and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work it in until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. The small pieces of butter are what create those flaky pockets inside the scones.

Step 4: Combine wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. This creamy mixture will bring the dough together and add that signature richness.

Step 5: Form the dough

Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until the dough begins to come together. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead just a few times to bring it all together. Avoid overworking to keep the scones tender.

Step 6: Shape and cut the scones

Shape the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut it into 8 equal wedges. Place the wedges on your prepared baking sheet with some space between them for even baking.

Step 7: Add the finishing touch and bake

If you like a little sparkle, sprinkle the tops with coarse sugar right before baking. Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until the scones are beautifully golden and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Let them cool slightly before enjoying.

How to Serve Orange Cardamom Cream Scones Recipe

Garnishes

These scones shine on their own but can be elevated with a few delightful garnishes. A light drizzle of honey or a smear of clotted cream complements the rich cardamom and orange flavors perfectly. You can even add a thin slice of orange or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra charm.

Side Dishes

Pair your Orange Cardamom Cream Scones Recipe with fresh berries or a bowl of yogurt for a balanced breakfast. A hot cup of tea or coffee makes an ideal companion, balancing the scone’s sweetness and warming spice notes with a comforting sip.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress guests? Serve these scones on a tiered platter with small bowls of preserves like raspberry or marmalade. You might even assemble mini scone sandwiches filled with lemon curd or whipped cream for an elegant touch that’s sure to delight everyone at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover scones fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain their tender crumb while protecting them from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these scones later, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual scones tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will stay delicious for up to one month this way.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw scones at room temperature or give them a quick zap in the microwave for about 20 seconds. For that just-baked warmth and crisp outside, pop them in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes.

FAQs

Can I substitute the heavy cream with milk?

You can use milk in place of heavy cream, but keep in mind that the texture might be slightly less rich and tender. For best results, stick with cream to achieve that perfect flaky scone.

Is cardamom necessary for the flavor?

Cardamom adds a unique, warming spiciness that pairs wonderfully with orange zest, but if you don’t have it, cinnamon or nutmeg can be a nice substitute. The scones will still be delicious, just with a different spice profile.

Can I make these scones gluten-free?

To make gluten-free scones, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Be sure to adjust the liquid slightly if needed, as gluten-free flours sometimes absorb moisture differently.

How do I ensure my scones are fluffy and not dense?

Using cold butter in small pieces and avoiding overmixing the dough helps create a light, flaky texture. Also, be sure your baking powder is fresh to get a good rise.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit can be folded into the dough after combining the wet and dry ingredients. Just be careful not to overload the dough to maintain the crumb structure.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making the Orange Cardamom Cream Scones Recipe at home. With its inviting aroma and comforting texture, it’s a beautiful way to brighten your mornings or impress friends at tea time. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make this recipe your own — it’s sure to become a treasured favorite in your baking repertoire.

Orange Cardamom Cream Scones Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Yield: 8 scones 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Orange Cardamom Cream Scones are tender, flaky, and infused with fragrant cardamom and bright orange zest, making them a perfect treat for breakfast or afternoon tea. The rich cream and buttery texture combine with the subtle spice and citrus for a delightfully flavorful scone that’s easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection.

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Ingredients

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Scone Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 2/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: 2 tablespoons coarse sugar for sprinkling

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow easy cleanup.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, ground cardamom, and orange zest. Whisk thoroughly to distribute all the ingredients evenly.
3. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, large egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Form the Dough: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredient bowl, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the scones tender.
6. Knead and Shape: Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead gently just to bring it together and shape it into a circle approximately 1 inch thick.
7. Cut into Wedges: Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the circle into 8 equal wedges. Arrange these wedges evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Add Sugar Topping: If desired, sprinkle the tops of the scones with coarse sugar for added texture and sweetness.
9. Bake: Place the scones in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
10. Cool and Serve: Remove the scones from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• For the best texture, ensure your butter is very cold before cutting it into the flour mixture.
• Do not overwork the dough to maintain a tender crumb in the scones.
• Orange zest can be substituted with lemon zest for a different citrus flavor.
• These scones are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.
• Reheat briefly in the oven to restore the fresh-baked texture before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American