If you are on the lookout for a warm, delightful treat that perfectly balances zesty citrus with sweet, chewy raisins, then the 8 Tender Orange Raisin Soda Bread Scones Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These scones capture the essence of classic soda bread with a bright orange twist, delivering a tender crumb and just the right amount of sweetness. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or a comforting snack, this recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that feels both homey and special. Let me take you through why these scones have quickly become one of my favorites to bake and share.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome ingredients come together in this recipe to create a scone with fantastic texture and vibrant flavor. Each component plays a crucial role, from the tang of buttermilk to the aromatic orange zest, making this recipe straightforward yet irresistibly tasty.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of your scones, providing structure and that satisfying bite.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to complement the orange and raisins without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the scones rise, contributing to their tender, fluffy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the buttermilk for perfect lift and crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon finely grated orange zest: The star flavor that brings fresh citrus notes and aroma.
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed: Adds richness and flakiness when cut into the flour.
- 1/2 cup raisins: Soft, sweet bursts that give depth and a pleasant chew.
- 3/4 cup buttermilk: Brings moisture and a subtle tang that keeps the scones tender.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A hint of warmth that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice: Enhances the citrus brightness for a lively taste.
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional): Sprinkled on top for a crunchy, sparkling finish.
How to Make 8 Tender Orange Raisin Soda Bread Scones Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the finely grated orange zest. This dry mix is foundational — it’s where the bright citrus scent begins to mingle with the promise of warm, tender scones.
Step 2: Cut in the Butter and Add Raisins
Next, toss in the cold, cubed unsalted butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, gently work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step ensures each scone will be beautifully flaky. Then stir in the raisins, making sure they’re evenly distributed to add those sweet, juicy pockets in every bite.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and fresh orange juice. This flavorful liquid mixture provides moisture and that tangy, citrus kick. When the wet and dry ingredients meet, the magic starts to happen.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry mixture. Gently fold together with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix – the dough should come together but stay tender, ensuring your scones bake up light and soft.
Step 5: Shape and Slice the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it gently into a 1-inch thick circle. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 equal wedges. This step transforms your batter into those iconic scone shapes, ready for the oven.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Place the wedges on your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each. If desired, sprinkle the scones with coarse sugar for an irresistible sparkly crunch on top. Bake them for 16 to 18 minutes until they turn golden brown and spring back lightly when touched.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, allow the scones to cool just a bit on a wire rack. Their warm, tender crumb and bright orange-raisin flavor make them best enjoyed fresh, perhaps with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.
How to Serve 8 Tender Orange Raisin Soda Bread Scones Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little something on top can elevate your scones from lovely to downright dazzling. A smear of citrus-infused butter or a light glaze made simply from powdered sugar and orange juice pairs perfectly. Fresh orange zest or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar can also add a fragrant, colorful touch.
Side Dishes
These scones hold their own with just a cup of your favorite tea or coffee, but serving alongside a fresh fruit salad or a dollop of clotted cream really rounds out the experience. They’re also delightful with a side of creamy yogurt topped with honey.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch or special occasions, stack the scones on a pretty platter lined with fresh orange slices and sprigs of mint to add a festive and inviting vibe. You can slice them open and fill with mascarpone cheese and a spoonful of marmalade for a sweet, elegant twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any 8 Tender Orange Raisin Soda Bread Scones Recipe leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They retain their freshness best when kept away from moisture.
Freezing
These scones freeze wonderfully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a sealed freezer bag for up to three months. This way, you can enjoy fresh-baked scones any time you want without the fuss.
Reheating
When you’re ready to eat your frozen or refrigerated scones, reheat by warming in a 350°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes. This restores their tender texture and brings back that just-baked aroma, making them taste like they just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I substitute raisins with other dried fruits?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, or currants all work beautifully in this recipe. Each brings a different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite.
What’s the best way to zest an orange?
Use a fine grater or microplane to zest only the outer orange layer, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. Fresh zest adds vibrant flavor that really makes these scones stand out.
Can I make these scones dairy-free?
You can substitute buttermilk with a non-dairy milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the acidity. Use a plant-based butter as well, but keep in mind the texture may be slightly different.
Why is it important not to overmix the dough?
Overmixing develops gluten, which can make scones tough and dense. A light hand ensures the dough stays tender, flaky, and soft, just as the 8 Tender Orange Raisin Soda Bread Scones Recipe intends.
Can I add nuts to the dough?
Yes! Toasted walnuts or pecans would add a lovely crunch and complement the orange and raisins beautifully. Add about 1/4 cup along with the raisins for a delightful texture contrast.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about baking your own scones, and this 8 Tender Orange Raisin Soda Bread Scones Recipe offers a perfect gateway into that joyful experience. It’s effortless, flavorful, and consistently delicious. I can’t wait for you to try it and share that warm, comforting feeling that comes with these tender, orangey bites. Happy baking and even happier eating!
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8 Tender Orange Raisin Soda Bread Scones Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These 8 Tender Orange Raisin Soda Bread Scones offer a delightful twist on classic soda bread, infused with fresh orange zest and juicy raisins. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack, these scones are tender, lightly sweetened, and easy to make with simple ingredients. Their golden crust and soft crumb make them irresistible when served warm, especially with butter or a drizzle of orange glaze.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon finely grated orange zest
Fats & Add-ins
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup raisins
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
Topping
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and finely grated orange zest to evenly distribute the leavening agents and citrus flavor.
- Incorporate Butter: Add the cold unsalted butter cubes to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs, which helps create tender, flaky scones.
- Add Raisins: Stir in the raisins so they are evenly distributed throughout the crumbly mixture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, large egg, vanilla extract, and fresh orange juice to create the liquid base for the dough.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain the scones’ tender texture.
- Shape Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick, being careful not to overwork it.
- Cut and Arrange Scones: Cut the dough circle into 8 even wedges. Transfer them to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow for expansion.
- Add Topping: If desired, sprinkle the tops of the scones with coarse sugar for a sweet, crunchy finish.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 16 to 18 minutes, or until the scones turn golden brown and are set in the middle.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the scones to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving warm, optionally with butter or a light orange glaze.
Notes
- For extra citrus flavor, add an additional teaspoon of finely grated orange zest to the dry ingredients.
- Dried cranberries can be substituted for raisins to vary the flavor and texture.
- Serve these scones warm with butter or a light orange glaze for the best taste experience.
