How to Make Perfect Orange Raisin Scones at Home

Discover how to make irresistible orange raisin scones with an orange glaze that will elevate your brunch or afternoon tea experience. These buttery, flaky scones combine the bright citrus notes of fresh oranges with sweet, plump raisins, all crowned with a delicate orange glaze. Perfect for special occasions or weekend treats, these orange raisin scones offer the ideal balance of sweetness and sophistication.

Why Orange Raisin Scones Are the Ultimate Tea-Time Companion

The combination of orange and raisins in these scones creates a perfect harmony of flavors that pairs beautifully with tea or coffee. While traditional scones are delicious on their own, these orange raisin scones with their complementary orange glaze take the classic recipe to new heights. The citrus adds a refreshing twist, while the raisins provide bursts of natural sweetness throughout.

The Secret to Perfect Orange Raisin Scones

The key to creating exceptional orange raisin scones lies in the technique and quality of ingredients. Fresh orange zest, plump raisins, and cold butter are essential components that contribute to the scones’ superior taste and texture.

Ingredients for Orange Raisin Scones

For the Scones:

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Zest of 2 oranges
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 cup raisins
• 2 large eggs
• ⅔ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

For the Orange Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• ½ teaspoon orange zest
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions for Orange Raisin Scones

Preparing the Dough:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt
4. Add orange zest and mix well
5. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs
6. Stir in raisins

Making the Wet Mixture:

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• Eggs
• Heavy cream
• Vanilla extract
• Orange juice

Combining and Shaping:

1. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients
2. Mix until just combined
3. Turn onto a floured surface
4. Pat into 8-inch circle
5. Cut into 8 wedges

Baking Instructions:

1. Place scones on the prepared baking sheet
2. Brush tops with additional cream
3. Sprinkle with sugar if desired
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown

Creating the Perfect Orange Glaze

Glaze Instructions:

1. Combine powdered sugar and orange juice
2. Add orange zest and salt
3. Whisk until smooth
4. Adjust consistency as needed
5. Drizzle over cooled scones

Tips for the Best Orange Raisin Scones

Ingredient Tips:

• Use cold butter straight from the refrigerator
• Soak raisins in warm water for 10 minutes before using
• Use fresh oranges for the best flavor
• Choose heavy cream for the richest results

Technique Tips:

• Don’t overwork the dough
• Keep ingredients cold
• Use a sharp knife for clean cuts
• Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Storage Methods:

• Room temperature: 1-2 days in airtight container
• Refrigerator: Up to 5 days
• Freezer: Up to 3 months (unglazed)

Serving Ideas for Orange Raisin Scones:

• Traditional: With clotted cream and orange marmalade
• Modern: With whipped cream cheese
• Simple: Just the orange glaze
• Accompaniments: Hot tea, coffee, or fresh orange juice

Variations on Orange Raisin Scones

Alternative Ingredients:

• Substitute cranberries for raisins
• Add chopped nuts
• Include orange-flavored chocolate chips
• Try different citrus combinations

Nutritional Information

Per Scone (with glaze):

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 28g

Common Questions About Orange Raisin Scones

Troubleshooting Tips:

• If scones spread too much: Ensure butter is cold
• If too dry: Add a touch more cream
• If not rising: Check baking powder freshness
• If the glaze is too thin: Add more powdered sugar

Make-Ahead Instructions

Preparation Options:

1. Freeze unbaked scones
2. Prepare the dough the night before
3. Make glaze in advance
4. Store baked scones properly

These orange raisin scones with orange glaze are perfect for any occasion, from casual weekend brunches to elegant afternoon teas. Their versatility makes them ideal for both everyday enjoyment and special celebrations. The combination of fresh orange flavor, sweet raisins, and delicate glaze creates a memorable treat that will have your guests asking for the recipe.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying scones for the first time, this recipe provides the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication. The bright orange flavor paired with sweet raisins makes these scones a standout addition to your baking repertoire, while the orange glaze adds that perfect finishing touch that elevates them from good to extraordinary.