I-Love-You Cranberry Scones Recipe

If you’ve been searching for the perfect treat to brighten your morning or impress loved ones at tea time, look no further than the I-Love-You Cranberry Scones Recipe. These scones are a beautiful balance of tender crumb, subtle sweetness, and a pop of tart cranberry that feels like a warm hug with every bite. They’re easy enough for new bakers to tackle yet so flavorful that scone lovers will keep coming back for more. Whether you’re baking for a cozy brunch or a heartfelt gift, this recipe promises to deliver both comfort and charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is simple, and each one plays an important role in making these scones just right. From the flaky butter bits that create tender layers to the cranberries that add brightness and color, these are all pantry staples that come together in perfect harmony.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure and a tender crumb when combined with the right fat.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to balance the tartness of the cranberries.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Your rising agent, helping the scones to puff up light and fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and prevents the scones from tasting flat.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional): Gives a gentle warm spice that complements the fruit beautifully.
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes: Essential for that tender, flaky texture; cold is key here.
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional): Adds just the right tangy sweetness and a lovely ruby hue.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (plus extra for brushing): Moisturizes the dough for a rich, tender bite and creates a golden top when brushed on.
• 1 large egg: Binds everything together and adds richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings out the sweetness and rounds out the flavor.
• 1 tablespoon milk (optional for brushing): Helps in browning if you prefer it over cream for brushing.
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional): For that irresistible sweet crunch on top.

How to Make I-Love-You Cranberry Scones Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step ensures your scones will bake evenly and won’t stick to the pan.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon if you’re using it. This blend lays the flavorful foundation of your scones and ensures every bite has a uniform texture.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold butter cubes to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until it looks like coarse crumbs dotted with pea-sized butter pieces. These little bits of butter are what create those flaky layers once baked, so keep the butter cold and don’t overwork the dough.

Step 4: Add Dried Fruit

Gently fold in the cranberries or raisins. These add a delightful tangy sweetness and vibrant color that make the scones feel both homey and special.

Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined. This mixture brings richness and tenderness to the scone dough.

Step 6: Form Dough

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir gently with a spoon or spatula. Be careful not to overmix; a slightly crumbly but hold-together dough is what we’re aiming for. This ensures the scones stay tender and flaky.

Step 7: Shape Scones

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter (perfect for this I-Love-You Cranberry Scones Recipe!), cut out your scones. If you don’t have one, wedges or round cutters work just as well—just pick what makes you smile.

Step 8: Brush and Sprinkle

Place the scones on your baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with extra cream or milk for that golden, glowing finish. Then, sprinkle with coarse sugar to add a delightful crunch and sparkle.

Step 9: Bake and Cool

Bake the scones for 15 to 18 minutes or until they’re beautifully golden on top. Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly on a wire rack to set before serving.

How to Serve I-Love-You Cranberry Scones Recipe

Garnishes

Top your scones with a dollop of clotted cream or your favorite jam—the cream adds buttery richness, while the jam offers a sweet complement to the tart cranberries. Fresh berries on the side also add a burst of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

These scones pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack or breakfast. A fresh fruit salad alongside can add a refreshing balance if you’re serving for brunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming touch, arrange your heart-shaped scones on a rustic wooden board or pretty platter layered with parchment paper. Tie a ribbon around a few to gift to someone special, perfectly echoing the loving name of the I-Love-You Cranberry Scones Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This will maintain their moisture and prevent them from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze these scones before baking by shaping and cutting them, then placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To enjoy your scones warm, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 to 7 minutes or microwave briefly for about 20 seconds. This revives their fresh-baked feel, making each bite just as delightful as the first.

FAQs

Can I substitute dried cranberries with fresh ones?

Fresh cranberries are much more tart and contain more moisture, which can affect the dough’s texture. It’s best to stick with dried cranberries or opt for raisins to maintain the intended crumb and flavor balance.

Is it okay to use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt slightly to avoid over-salting. Using unsalted butter gives you better control over seasoning, but salted butter works in a pinch.

Can I make these scones vegan?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and the heavy cream and egg with non-dairy milk and a flax egg, respectively. Keep in mind that texture may vary slightly but the flavors will still shine.

Why is the butter kept cold when making scones?

Cold butter creates those flaky layers in scones because as it melts during baking, it leaves pockets of air. This gives scones their signature flaky texture rather than a dense one.

What should I do if my dough feels too sticky to handle?

If the dough is sticky, lightly flour your hands and work surface. Chill the dough in the fridge for 15 minutes before shaping to make it easier to handle.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly joyful about making the I-Love-You Cranberry Scones Recipe. It’s a recipe that’s as much about sharing love as it is about delicious flavor. Whether you’re baking these scones for yourself or as a delightful gift, they bring warmth, sweetness, and a touch of homemade magic to any moment. So go ahead, pull out your mixing bowl and heart-shaped cutter, and start baking—you’ll soon discover why this recipe steals hearts every time.

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