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Cranberry Scones

We used cranberries instead of currants in these traditional, crumbly British scones for an irresistible winter treat. Try them for breakfast or with afternoon tea.
Everyday Food, December 2003
  • Prep Time 15 minutes
  • Total Time 30 minutes
  • Yield Serves 8
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Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for work surface
  • 5 tablespoons sugar, plus 1 tablespoon for topping
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 6 tablespoons chilled unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 2/3 cup (plus 1 tablespoon) half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup halved cranberries, drained on paper towels

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. In a bowl, whisk together flour, 5 tablespoons sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in butter with a pastry blender or two knives until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in 2/3 cup half-and-half until just moistened. Gently fold in cranberries.
  2. On a lightly floured surface, knead dough gently, 5 to 10 times. Pat into a 1-inch-thick round. Cut into 8 wedges; place on a baking sheet, 2 inches apart. Brush tops with remaining tablespoon half-and-half; sprinkle with remaining tablespoon sugar. Bake until golden brown, 12 to 15 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack.

Recipe Reviews

  • brstover
    11 Jan, 2012

    The is the most delicious-and quickest- scone recipe out there. This makes tender fluffy scones. Instead of adding the cranberries, I just added some lemon zest and vanilla extract to the half-n-half (which was a mix of heavy cream and rice milk I had on hand). Even the dough was delicious!

  • BecksChicLife
    15 Nov, 2011

    These scones are super simple to make and taste delicious! I used dried cranberries because that is what I had in the pantry, but they turned out perfect! Very simple recipe and a beautiful item to bring to holiday gatherings!

  • kbuczek
    26 Jan, 2011

    These scones were delicious and so easy to make! Highly recommend them.

  • karaheald
    26 Jan, 2009

    Make these again and again, and are a family favourite. Perfect morning treat with coffee.

  • Sleepygal_1948
    11 Dec, 2008

    half-and-half is a dairy product that is half cream and half milk. Look for it near the milk in your dairy section.

  • syltremb
    11 Dec, 2008

    Can someone tell me what is the* half-and-half * in the recipe. Merci

    Sylvie from Canada

  • tygerlilly
    8 Dec, 2008

    This was my first attempt at making scones and was pleasantly surprised at how easy and delicious it was. I have added this recipe to my favorites. Thank you!

  • slk1027
    1 Nov, 2008

    Can I use light cream instead of halk-and-half.

  • claudiamc
    3 Oct, 2008

    Soooo easy to make and turned out great! Will make these again.

  • quitepeculiar
    16 Jul, 2008

    I've used this recipe often, and I'll replace the half-and-half with almond milk, since I'm lactose intolerant and don't often have milk or such on hand. Also, I don't use flour on the surface when working the dough--I just work with it shaggy. My favourite sugar to use as a topping is light brown sugar, as it looks quite homey. This is a wonderful recipe, and I love being able to make something in less than an hour.

  • bonniemortensen
    29 Jun, 2008

    Yes, I have used dried cranberries and I like them even better than the fresh! Also, I sprinkle white sugar crystals instead of granulated sugar on top to give them my "fancy" look. Whenever I make these, everyone raves. It is such an easy, excellent recipe.

  • mulliganfun
    5 Apr, 2008

    I haven't used dried cranberries, I freeze quite a lot of fresh berries when in season. I also double the amount to 1 cup. My family also enjoys the scones when made with cinnamon chips, when I can find them. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before baking instead of plain sugar. Has anyone tried using dried or fresh blueberries?

  • LindseyJane
    28 Mar, 2008

    Has anyone tried this using dried cranberries? They are easier to find in my tiny grocery store.

  • Nass
    24 Feb, 2008

    It sooo quick and easy, I love this recipe! Instead on cranberries, I used white Toblerone chocolate!!! DELICIOUS!!!!

  • write4kids
    28 Jan, 2008

    I have been making these since I first saw the recipe in Everyday Food. I love these and so easy to make. I usually make them when we invite friends over for coffee or tea. They are delicious!

  • valfx
    29 Dec, 2007

    These really were very easy to make. I tried adding some orange zest as bethinne suggested and they were excellent. Thanks for the great idea! I'll definitely be making these again.

  • kato
    26 Dec, 2007

    These are wonderful and a favorite. They are extremely easy to make. I used refined sugar in the batter, but I sprinkled turbinado on top of the scones, which made them a little special.

  • bethinne
    10 Dec, 2007

    These were very simple and quick to make, however I think some orange zest (and maybe more cranberries) would have given it that extra something. Overall, they were tasty and easy and I would make them again.

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