Christmas Scones are the perfect addition to your holiday celebrations, bringing warmth and joy to every bite. These scones are soft, buttery, and bursting with festive flavors like dried cranberries, sultanas, mixed spice, and orange zest. They’re not just a treat; they’re an experience of cozy winter mornings, ideal for Christmas brunch or as delightful edible gifts. Whether you’re gathering with family or enjoying a quiet afternoon tea, these scones are sure to elevate your holiday spirit.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Scones

There are countless reasons to adore these holiday scones. Firstly, they are quick and easy to make, coming together in under 30 minutes, which is perfect for busy holiday schedules. Secondly, the combination of flavors—sweet cranberries paired with zesty orange—creates a refreshing taste that’s unlike any other treat. These festive scones are also versatile; you can enjoy them warm with butter, clotted cream, or your favorite jam. Plus, they make wonderful gifts for friends and family. Lastly, they cater to various dietary needs, allowing for vegan Christmas scones or even gluten-free Christmas scones. With such delightful options, who wouldn’t want to bake these?

Ingredients for Christmas Scones

Gather these items:

225g self-raising flour (plus extra for dusting)
40g caster sugar
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp mixed spice
50g cold unsalted butter, cubed
50g sultanas
50g dried cranberries
Zest of 1 orange
1 large egg
90ml milk (plus extra for brushing)
Butter
Clotted cream
Orange marmalade or cranberry jam

How to Make Christmas Scones Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat oven to 220°C (200°C fan) / 425°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Step 2: Add flour, sugar, baking powder, and mixed spice to a bowl and stir to combine.
Step 3: Add cold butter and rub in using fingertips until mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Stir in sultanas, dried cranberries, and orange zest until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Whisk egg and milk together in a jug.
Step 6: Add liquid gradually to dry mixture until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
Step 7: Roll dough to 2cm thickness on a floured surface. Cut straight down with a round cutter.
Step 8: Place on tray, brush tops with milk, and bake for 12–15 minutes until risen and lightly golden.
Step 9: Cool on a wire rack. Serve warm with butter, cream, or jam.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Christmas Scones

Keep these in mind:

These scones are perfect for Christmas brunch or as edible gifts.
Best served warm for a delightful experience.
For extra richness, try adding a touch of vanilla extract to the mixture.
Ensure your butter is cold for a flaky texture in your scones.

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Scones

These spiced scones for Christmas shine brightest when served with a selection of toppings. You can serve them warm topped with clotted cream and a dollop of orange marmalade or cranberry jam. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them an ideal treat for holiday gatherings. Consider placing a platter of these festive treats on your table for breakfast or afternoon tea, and watch them disappear!

How to Store and Reheat Christmas Scones

To keep your Christmas Scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed within a couple of days but can also be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, simply pop them in a warm oven (180°C / 350°F) for a few minutes until heated through. This method will help restore their delightful softness, making them taste freshly baked again!

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Scones

What’s the secret to perfect Christmas Scones?

The secret lies in the technique! Use cold butter for a flaky texture and avoid overmixing the dough to keep your seasonal scones light and airy.

Can I make Christmas Scones ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it. Just shape the scones and bake them fresh on Christmas morning for the best results.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas Scones?

To avoid mistakes, measure your ingredients accurately and ensure that your oven is preheated. Also, remember not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to dense scones.

Variations of Christmas Scones You Can Try

Looking to change things up? Here are a few ideas: try adding dried fruit for Christmas such as apricots or figs for a twist. You can also experiment with cinnamon scones for the holidays by incorporating cinnamon into the dough for a warm flavor. If you’re seeking easy Christmas scone ideas, consider a chocolate chip variation or even a savory option with cheese and herbs for a delightful contrast!

For more festive recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making cranberry orange pancakes for a delightful breakfast. If you’re interested in baking, our gingerbread cookies are a must-try!

For more information on the health benefits of cranberries, you can visit Healthline.