Sweet Cranberry Orange Scones

Risotto is more than just a dish; it embodies the heart and soul of Italian cuisine. This creamy, comforting rice dish has roots that dig deep into Italian culinary traditions, where it has been enjoyed for centuries. While risotto can be made with various ingredients, one of the most beloved variations is mushroom risotto. The earthy flavors and varied textures of mushrooms elevate this dish, transforming it into a rich and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

Sweet Cranberry Orange Scones

Indulge in the comforting flavors of savory mushroom risotto, a classic Italian dish that perfectly marries creamy rice with earthy mushrooms. This delightful recipe showcases the art of risotto, featuring a unique cooking method that creates a luscious texture. Discover how to choose the right mushrooms, perfect your cooking technique, and add flavorful ingredients like parmesan for a rich finish. Whether for a cozy dinner or an elegant feast, this mushroom risotto is sure to impress.

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Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

3/4 cup fresh cranberries, roughly chopped (or substitute with dried cranberries)

Zest of 1 large orange

1/2 cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt can be used)

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of milk for brushing the scones)

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

Zest of 1 orange

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly until they are well blended.

Incorporate Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture has a coarse, crumbly texture resembling small peas.

Add Cranberries and Zest: Fold in the chopped cranberries and the zest of one orange, ensuring that they are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.

Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Bring Mixtures Together: Carefully pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredient mixture. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold everything together until just combined. Take care not to overmix; the dough should feel slightly sticky.

Shape the Scones: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, gently pat the dough into a rough circle, about 1-inch thick. Use a knife to cut the dough into wedges, similar to slicing a pizza, or utilize a biscuit cutter for round scone shapes.

Prepare for Baking: Transfer the formed scones onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops gently with the prepared egg wash for a beautiful, golden finish once baked.

Bake the Scones: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the scones for 15-18 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Glaze: While the scones are baking, mix the powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest in a small bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.

Cool and Apply Glaze: Once baked, allow the scones to cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack. Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm scones, allowing it to soak in for added sweetness.

Serve and Enjoy: These delightful scones are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. They make a perfect pairing with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | Makes 8 scones