Description
These 8 Tender Orange Raisin Soda Bread Scones are a delightful twist on traditional soda bread, infusing it with fresh orange zest and sweet raisins for a citrusy, comforting breakfast treat. Soft and moist with a golden crust, they are quick to prepare and perfect for enjoying warm with butter or a light orange glaze.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 400°F 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 flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and orange zest until well combined to evenly distribute the rising agents and flavor.
- Incorporate Butter and Raisins: Add the cold butter cubes to the dry ingredients and cut them in using a pastry cutter or fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the raisins for added sweetness and texture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and fresh orange juice until smooth and well blended to create the liquid base for the dough.
- Form Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently mix until just combined, taking care not to overwork the dough to keep the scones tender.
- Shape and Cut: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick circle. Cut the circle into 8 even wedges for uniform scones.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the wedges to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Sprinkle the tops with coarse sugar if desired for a sweet, crunchy finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 16 to 18 minutes until the scones are golden brown and set, indicating they are thoroughly cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the scones to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving warm with butter or an optional orange glaze.
Notes
- For extra orange flavor, add an additional teaspoon of orange zest to the dry ingredients.
- You can substitute dried cranberries for raisins if preferred for a different fruity flavor.
- Serve warm with butter or a light orange glaze for added sweetness and moisture.
