How to make Orange Cranberry Cream Scones

Introduction to Almond Flour Scones

If you love scones but are looking for a gluten-free or low-carb alternative, almond flour is your best friend. These orange cranberry cream scones are not just delicious but also a healthier twist on traditional recipes. By using almond flour and erythritol, they’re suitable for those following keto or paleo lifestyles. Let’s delve into how to create the perfect scones that balance tangy cranberries and zesty orange flavor.

What Makes This Recipe Stand Out?

This recipe uniquely combines:

1. Almond Flour: A naturally gluten-free option that provides a rich, nutty flavor and moist texture.
2. Erythritol: A sugar-free sweetener that adds just the right amount of sweetness without extra carbs.
3. Orange Zest: The secret to a bright, citrusy aroma and flavor that elevates the scones.
4. Cranberries: A burst of tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of heavy whipping cream.

Ingredients and Their Benefits:

1. Blanched Almond Flour (2 cups or 8 ounces): This ingredient provides a soft and moist texture, perfect for gluten-free baking. Blanched almond flour, made from skinless almonds, ensures a finer texture for the scones.
2. Erythritol (1/3 cup): A calorie-free sweetener that’s easy on blood sugar levels.
3. Baking Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Gives the scones a light and fluffy rise.
4. Sea Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness.
5. Coconut Oil (1/4 cup, melted): Adds healthy fats and a subtle tropical note.
6. Orange Zest (2 tablespoons): Packed with essential oils for a fresh citrus flavor.
7. Vanilla Extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
8. Large Egg: Acts as a binder and adds richness to the dough.
9. Cranberries (1/2 cup, fresh or frozen): Provide a tart contrast to the sweet and creamy scones.
10. Heavy Whipping Cream (200-220 ml or 1 cup): Ensures the dough stays tender and rich.

Essential Tools for Baking Success

1. Mixing Bowls: Use one large and one medium bowl for dry and wet ingredients.
2. Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
3. Baking Sheet: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly golden scones.
4. Spatula: Ideal for mixing wet and dry ingredients into a cohesive dough.
5. Knife or Pastry Cutter: To shape the scones into wedges.

Tips for Perfect Scones

1. Cold Ingredients: Ensure your heavy whipping cream is cold to create a tender texture.
2. Even Mixing: Mix the wet ingredients into the dry just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
3. Uniform Shaping: Form the dough into a consistent thickness to ensure even baking.
4. Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the scones to prevent over-browning. They’re ready when the edges turn golden.
5. Cooling: Allow the scones to cool completely on the baking sheet to firm up properly.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

1. Almond Flour: High in protein, healthy fats, and Vitamin E, it’s a nutritious alternative to wheat flour.
2. Cranberries: Rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C, they support immune health.
3. Coconut Oil: Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) for quick energy.
4. Heavy Whipping Cream: Provides a source of healthy fats and adds richness to the recipe.

Recipe for Orange Cranberry Cream Scones:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups (8 ounces) blanched almond flour
• 1/3 cup erythritol
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 2 tablespoons orange zest
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup (2 ounces) cranberries, fresh or frozen
• 200-220 ml (1 cup) cold heavy/whipping cream

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together almond flour, erythritol, baking powder, and sea salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk the egg, orange zest, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil until well blended.
4. Create the Dough: Gradually stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients using a spatula until a cohesive dough forms. Gently fold in the cranberries.
5. Add Cream: Slowly pour the cold heavy whipping cream into the dough, mixing until it just comes together. Avoid overmixing.
6. Shape the Scones: Transfer the dough onto the lined baking sheet. Shape it into a round disc about 6 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick. Using a sharp knife or pastry cutter, slice the disc into 8 equal wedges. Slightly separate the wedges for even baking.
7. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown around the edges.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the scones to cool completely on the baking sheet. This step ensures they firm up and are easy to handle.

Serving Suggestions: Enjoy your orange cranberry cream scones with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of sugar-free glaze. They pair perfectly with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Nutrition Information:

Keto Cranberry Orange Scones

YIELD: 6
SERVING SIZE: 1
Amount Per Serving:
CALORIES: 333
TOTAL FAT: 29g
SATURATED FAT: 9g
TRANS FAT: 0g
UNSATURATED FAT: 18g
CHOLESTEROL: 91mg

SODIUM: 244mg
CARBOHYDRATES: 12g
FIBER: 4g
SUGAR: 3g
PROTEIN: 9g