These orange poppy seed scones are a delightful treat that combines the zesty flavor of orange zest with the subtle crunch of poppy seeds. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, these scones are easy to make and sure to impress.
When preparing this recipe, you might need to purchase poppy seeds and orange zest if they are not commonly found in your pantry. Poppy seeds can usually be found in the spice aisle, while orange zest can be made by grating the outer peel of an orange. Make sure to get a fresh orange for the best flavor.
Ingredients for Orange Poppy Seed Scones
All-purpose flour: The base of the scone dough, providing structure and texture.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to the scones.
Baking powder: Helps the scones rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the scones.
Poppy seeds: Adds a subtle crunch and nutty flavor.
Cold butter: Creates a flaky texture in the scones.
Heavy cream: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
Orange zest: Provides a fresh, citrusy flavor.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of sweetness.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When incorporating the cold butter into the flour mixture, ensure that the butter remains in small, pea-sized pieces. This will create pockets of steam during baking, resulting in a flaky texture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to gently work the butter into the flour, being careful not to overwork the dough.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and increases the fiber content, though it may make the scones slightly denser.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and adds moisture to the scones, but you may need to reduce the amount of heavy cream slightly.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar for each teaspoon of baking powder needed. This combination mimics the leavening effect of baking powder.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral flavor.
poppy seeds - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds offer a similar crunch and nutritional benefits, though they may absorb more moisture.
cold butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative, but it will impart a slight coconut flavor to the scones.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream is a good dairy-free alternative that provides a similar richness and texture.
orange zest - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest offers a different citrus flavor that can brighten the scones in a similar way.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor that pairs well with citrus and poppy seeds.
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How To Store / Freeze These Scones
Allow the scones to cool completely on a wire rack before storing or freezing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make them soggy.
For short-term storage, place the scones in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
To extend their shelf life, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place them in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
For freezing, first wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to prevent freezer burn and maintain their texture.
Place the wrapped scones in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until they are firm. This step ensures they don't stick together.
Once frozen, transfer the scones to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the scones at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. For a freshly baked taste, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
If you prefer a quicker option, you can also reheat the scones in the microwave. Place a scone on a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
How To Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Warm them in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crisp on the outside.
For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place the scones on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. This method will keep them moist but won't give them a crispy exterior.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the scones in the basket and heat for 3-5 minutes. This method will help maintain a nice, crispy texture.
For a stovetop method, use a skillet over low heat. Place the scones in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even warming. This method can give a slight crisp to the exterior while keeping the inside soft.
To add a touch of freshness, lightly brush the scones with a bit of orange juice or heavy cream before reheating in the oven. This will enhance the flavor and keep them moist.
Essential Tools for This Recipe
Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) for baking the scones.
Baking sheet: Line with parchment paper to prevent the scones from sticking.
Parchment paper: Used to line the baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Large mixing bowl: For combining the dry ingredients like flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds.
Whisk: To mix the dry ingredients evenly.
Pastry cutter: Used to cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Small mixing bowl: For whisking together the heavy cream, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
Measuring cups: To measure out the flour, sugar, and heavy cream accurately.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the baking powder, salt, poppy seeds, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
Spatula: To stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
Floured surface: For turning out and kneading the dough gently.
Knife: To cut the dough into 8 wedges.
Cooling rack: To let the scones cool slightly before serving.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This will streamline the baking process.
Use a food processor: Quickly cut the cold butter into the flour mixture by pulsing in a food processor.
Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven as you begin gathering your ingredients to save time.
Chill the dough: If you need to pause, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it. This keeps the butter cold and the dough manageable.
Use parchment paper: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Orange Poppy Seed Scones
Ingredients
Scones
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- ½ cup cold butter, cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds.
- Add the cold butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently a few times to bring it together. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick.
- Cut the dough into 8 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
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