Name: Orange Cream Scones with Citrus Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups (315 grams) unbleached all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon (12 grams) baking powder; 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon ground cardamom; 2 tablespoons (12 grams) orange zest (about 2 oranges); 8 tablespoons (113 grams) unsalted butter (frozen); 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (cold); 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons heavy cream or milk; 1 cup (120 grams) powdered sugar (sifted); Orange zest; 2 teaspoons orange juice; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 2-3 teaspoons heavy cream or milk; 1/16 teaspoon kosher salt

Print Recipe· 3.8 from 12 reviews

There’s something undeniably magical about Orange Cream Scones with Citrus Glaze Recipe that makes every bite feel like a burst of sunshine on a cloudy day. These scones combine the tender, flaky crumb of a perfectly made pastry with the zesty brightness of fresh orange and a dreamy citrus glaze that adds just the right hint of sweetness. Whether you’re enjoying a relaxed weekend brunch or hosting a cozy afternoon tea, this recipe delivers warm, comforting flavors with a hint of sophisticated citrus sparkle that’s sure to delight everyone at the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several clear glass bowls and containers on a white marbled surface. In the top left corner, a large bowl holds unbleached all-purpose flour, pale and powdery with a rough texture. To the right, a smaller bowl contains granulated sugar, bright white and fine. Below the flour bowl, there is a small container of ground cardamom with a brown, powdery texture, and near it, a small bowl with coarse kosher salt, white and crystalline. Next to the salt is a small bowl of baking powder, white and powdered with a smooth look. In the middle-left, a white carton of heavy cream stands up, its label purple and white. Below the carton, a stick of unsalted butter is placed horizontally, pale yellow with measurement markings. At the center, two whole oranges with bright orange skin add color and texture. To the right of the oranges, a dark brown bottle of vanilla extract sits, its label beige with black text. The items are neatly spaced on the surface, creating a clean, organized layout. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients for this Orange Cream Scones with Citrus Glaze Recipe is simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and that irresistible citrus aroma that fills your kitchen. From zesty orange peel to rich cream and the warming touch of cardamom, every component is essential to crafting scones that taste like a little slice of heaven.

Unbleached all-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups or 315 grams): The foundation for tender, fluffy scones that hold their shape beautifully.
Granulated sugar (1/4 cup or 50 grams): Adds a subtle sweetness that complements the citrus notes without overpowering them.
Baking powder (1 tablespoon or 12 grams): Gives the scones their rise and light texture, ensuring they’re soft and airy.
Kosher salt (3/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Ground cardamom (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, herbal nuance that pairs wonderfully with orange zest.
Orange zest (2 tablespoons or about 2 oranges): Bursting with fresh citrus oils, this ingredient brings the scones’ signature bright flavor.
Unsalted butter, frozen (8 tablespoons or 113 grams): Shredded into the flour for a flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Pure vanilla extract (1 1/2 teaspoons): Enhances the creaminess and sweetness for a richer scone experience.
Heavy cream, cold (1 1/2 cups): Keeps the dough moist and tender while adding luscious richness.
Large egg (1): Helps bind the dough and adds a lovely golden hue when baked.
Heavy cream or milk (2 teaspoons): For brushing the scones before baking to achieve a glossy, golden top.
Powdered sugar, sifted (1 cup or 120 grams): The base for the citrus glaze that crowns the scones with sweet dewiness.
Additional orange zest: For mixing into the glaze to boost the citrus flavor and add visual appeal.
Orange juice (2 teaspoons): The liquid citrus component that brings brightness to the glaze.
Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Adds a balanced tang to keep the glaze fresh and lively.
Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the glaze flavor with a sweet, creamy note.
Heavy cream or milk (2-3 teaspoons): Adjusts the glaze to a perfect drizzling consistency.
Kosher salt (a pinch): Enhances the glaze by balancing its sweetness perfectly.

How to Make Orange Cream Scones with Citrus Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Make the Scone Dough

Begin by whisking together your flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cardamom in a large bowl. Adding the orange zest directly into the dry ingredients helps evenly disperse that gorgeous citrus fragrance throughout the dough. The next trick is grating the frozen butter right into the mixture; this ensures that buttery pockets stay cold and solid, creating those signature flaky layers once baked.

Step 2: Mix in the Cream and Vanilla

Pour the heavy cream and vanilla extract into the dry ingredients, then gently fold everything together with a rubber spatula. The dough will look shaggy and slightly floury at this point, and that’s exactly what you want. Resist overmixing to keep the scones tender and light.

Step 3: Fold and Shape the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and use a bench scraper to bring it all together into a rectangle. Apply the tri-fold technique like folding a letter, which builds layers into the scones for that delightful flakiness. Repeat this process, then shape the dough into an 8-inch circle before cutting it into eight wedges to create perfect triangles.

Step 4: Chill Before Baking

Place the wedges onto a tray or board that fits in your refrigerator and chill for an hour. This step lets the butter firm up again, which is crucial for producing flaky, tender scones with a beautiful rise in the oven.

Step 5: Bake Your Scones

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Whisk together your egg and cream for an egg wash, then brush it generously over each scone wedge. Bake the scones for about 15 minutes or until they’re golden brown and have puffed up nicely. They’ll smell incredible by now, trust me.

Step 6: Prepare the Citrus Glaze

While the scones are cooling, make your glaze by combining powdered sugar, orange zest, orange juice, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Add cream or milk one teaspoon at a time until the glaze reaches a thick but pourable consistency. This glaze is the perfect finishing touch, adding a sweet and tangy shine to your scones.

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

Once the scones have cooled to room temperature, drizzle the glaze over the top. This not only enhances the look but also adds a luscious layer of citrus sweetness that perfectly complements the creamy, buttery base of the scones.

How to Serve Orange Cream Scones with Citrus Glaze Recipe

A metal baking sheet lined with white parchment paper holds eight raw triangular scones. Each scone is pale yellow with small bits of orange and white scattered inside, giving a slightly textured look. The scones are evenly spaced in two vertical rows of four, all pointing their tips in the same direction. The baking sheet sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, sprinkle a bit more fresh orange zest or finely chopped candied orange peel over the glaze just before serving. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a lovely snowy effect that looks as delightful as it tastes.

Side Dishes

These scones pair beautifully with classic accompaniments like clotted cream, lemon curd, or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a decadent treat. Fresh berries or a citrus fruit salad add a refreshing balance and brighten your brunch or teatime spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Orange Cream Scones with Citrus Glaze Recipe on a rustic wooden board or a pretty floral plate, piling them high for a charming display. For an elegant twist, pair the scones with a pot of freshly brewed Earl Grey or chamomile tea and some delicate linen napkins. It’s all about creating that cozy yet refined vibe that makes everyone feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After they’ve completely cooled, tuck your scones into an airtight container and store them at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them soft and fresh, perfect for a quick breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze these scones before baking. After shaping and cutting them, arrange them on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To bring stored or frozen scones back to life, warm them gently in a 325°F oven for about 5-8 minutes. This refreshes the flaky texture and melts the glazing glaze slightly, making every bite as delightful as freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use regular butter instead of frozen?

While you can, using frozen butter is key to achieving those flaky layers in your scones. Cold butter stays solid longer during mixing, creating pockets of steam that puff up beautifully in the oven.

What if I don’t have cardamom? Can I skip it?

Yes! Cardamom adds a lovely warm depth, but you can omit it if you prefer. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg works as a subtle alternative to keep your scones flavorful.

How do I know when the scones are done?

Look for a golden brown top and a slight rise. Using an instant-read thermometer, they’re perfectly baked when the internal temperature reaches about 204°F.

Is it necessary to chill the dough? What happens if I skip it?

Chilling is important because it firms the butter again, ensuring flakiness and better rise. Skipping this may cause your scones to spread too much and become dense rather than light and tender.

Can I make the citrus glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store the glaze in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to two days. Give it a good stir before drizzling over scones to restore the perfect consistency.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a recipe that feels both indulgent and bright, the Orange Cream Scones with Citrus Glaze Recipe is an absolute must-try. These scones bring a lovely balance of rich creaminess and fresh citrus zing that will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. They’re perfect for any occasion where you want to impress with flavor and warmth, so go on, treat yourself and those you love to this beautiful citrus delight.