Cranberry Eggnog Scones

Cranberry Eggnog Scones

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Cranberry Eggnog Scones wafting through the kitchen, especially during the chilly months of fall. These delightful treats have a special place in my heart, often reminding me of cozy holiday gatherings with family and friends. I remember the first time I prepared these scones; the laughter, the stories, and the joy of sharing warm, buttery goodies straight from the oven. Each bite is a soft, tender embrace, filled with the sweetness of dried cranberries and the rich, creamy essence of eggnog. It’s a little slice of comfort that elevates any breakfast or festive brunch.

The crunchy exterior gives way to a moist interior, making them perfect for pairing with a hot cup of coffee or tea. As the scones bake, you can almost taste the anticipation in the air, and they truly shine during the holiday season. They are more than just a recipe; they are a tradition, a way to bring people together, and a reminder that the simplest ingredients can create the most magical moments. So, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to these delicious Cranberry Eggnog Scones? You’ll find that they’re not just a treat; they are a celebration of flavors and memories.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins
Prep Time:
0 mins
Cook Time:
0 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
220 kcal
Protein:
3 g
Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
10 g
Tools Used:
Blender, Food Processor, Wooden Spoon, Oven, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why Try This Cranberry Eggnog Scones

Festive Flavor

One of the reasons I adore Cranberry Eggnog Scones is their festive flavor combination. The tartness of the dried cranberries balances beautifully with the rich sweetness of eggnog, creating a delightful taste experience that’s perfect for the fall and winter months.

Easy to Make

These scones are surprisingly easy to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can impress their family and friends. The quick preparation means you can enjoy these treats in no time!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a cozy Sunday morning, Cranberry Eggnog Scones fit perfectly into any occasion. They are versatile enough to be enjoyed on their own or complemented with a dollop of cream or butter.

Freezable for Convenience

One of the things I appreciate about these scones is their freezable nature. You can make a batch ahead of time and freeze them, so you always have a delicious treat at hand for unexpected guests or busy mornings.

Visual Appeal

These scones are not only delicious but also visually stunning. Their golden crust and the scattered bits of cranberries make for a beautiful presentation, perfect for impressing guests or brightening your breakfast table.

Cranberry Eggnog Scones Ingredients

Cranberry Eggnog Scones

When it comes to the ingredients for Cranberry Eggnog Scones, each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. The combination of flour, baking powder, and sugar forms the base, while the dried cranberries add a pop of tartness. The richness of butter and the creamy essence of eggnog create that tender crumb we all love. This simple yet effective combination is what makes these scones a favorite.

  • 2 cups flour: The foundation of the scone, providing structure and texture.
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder: This helps the scones rise, making them light and fluffy.
  • 3 tablespoons sugar: Adds sweetness, balancing the tart cranberries.
  • ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
  • 5 tablespoons cold butter, cut into ¼-inch cubes: Contributes to the richness and flaky texture.
  • ½ cup dried cranberries: Provides bursts of tartness in each bite.
  • 1 cup eggnog: The star ingredient, adding moisture and a festive flavor.

Step by Step Guide for Cranberry Eggnog Scones

Cranberry Eggnog Scones

Making Cranberry Eggnog Scones is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and inviting aromas. Follow these simple steps for a scrumptious treat!

  1. Preheat your oven to 425ºF. This ensures that the scones bake evenly and achieve that lovely golden color.

  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended.

  3. Cut in the butter using a pastry blender or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse cornmeal with some larger lumps. This step is crucial for creating the fluffy texture.

  4. Next, stir in the dried cranberries. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

  5. Now, add in the eggnog and mix gently with a spatula or fork until the dough begins to form. It should come together but remain slightly sticky.

  6. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured countertop. Knead by hand for just 5 to 10 seconds until it forms a cohesive mass.

  7. Pat the dough into a round shape about 1 inch thick. This thickness is key for achieving the right texture.

  8. Cut the dough into 8 wedges. You can use a knife or a bench scraper for clean edges.

  9. Place the wedges onto an ungreased or Silpat-lined baking sheet. For an extra touch, you may brush the tops with cream and sprinkle some sugar.

  10. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until they are light brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.

  11. Cool the scones on a rack for about 10 minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

  12. These scones freeze well, so feel free to batch them up for later enjoyment!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Use cold butter: Always use cold butter for a flaky texture.
  • Don’t over-knead: Kneading just enough will maintain the tender quality of the scones.
  • Check for doneness: Bake until golden brown to ensure they are cooked through.
  • Flavor variations: Feel free to experiment with different fruits for variety.

Tips and Tricks about Cranberry Eggnog Scones

Cranberry Eggnog Scones

These tips will help you perfect your Cranberry Eggnog Scones and ensure every batch is as delicious as the last!

  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze baked scones for up to 2 months. Just reheat them in the oven.
  • Pairing: Serve with clotted cream or a light drizzle of icing for an extra touch.
  • Experiment: Try adding nuts or spices such as nutmeg for an added flavor dimension.
  • Eggnog substitute: If you don’t have eggnog, you can use milk with a bit of nutmeg or vanilla.

How to Serve Cranberry Eggnog Scones

When it comes to serving Cranberry Eggnog Scones, the possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas:

  • Breakfast treat: Serve warm with butter and jam for a hearty breakfast.
  • Holiday brunch: These scones are perfect for a festive brunch, alongside a selection of fruit and pastries.
  • Afternoon tea: Pair with tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
  • Storage tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
  • Seasonal pairing: They make a great addition to your holiday dessert table.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time, shape it into wedges, and freeze them. When you’re ready to bake, just take them out and bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This makes them perfect for unexpected guests or holiday gatherings!

These Cranberry Eggnog Scones pair wonderfully with clotted cream or a light drizzle of icing. You can also serve them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack. They’re versatile enough to enjoy with fresh fruit or jam, too.

To keep your leftover scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their lifespan, you can also freeze them. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing to maintain their texture.

While you can use fresh cranberries, I recommend adjusting the sugar in the recipe since fresh cranberries are quite tart. You may want to increase the sugar to balance the flavors, as dried cranberries are naturally sweeter.

Conclusion

The Cranberry Eggnog Scones are a delightful blend of flavors that truly capture the essence of the holiday season. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones; it’s bound to become a new favorite in your home!

Cranberry Eggnog Scones

Cranberry Eggnog Scones

The ultimate comfort food, Cranberry Eggnog Scones are fluffy, buttery treats that blend the holiday flavors of rich eggnog with tart cranberries. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, these scones will fill your home with a warm, inviting aroma. Make them today for a delightful taste of the season!
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups Flour
  • 1 tablespoon Baking powder
  • 3 tablespoons Sugar
  • ½ teaspoon Salt
  • 5 tablespoons Cold butter, cut into ¼-inch cubes
  • ½ cup Dried cranberries
  • 1 cup Eggnog (may add more or less until the dough comes together)

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Food Processor
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Oven
  • Whisk
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 425ºF.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended.
  3. Cut in the butter using a pastry blender or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse cornmeal with some larger lumps.
  4. Next, stir in the dried cranberries. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  5. Now, add in the eggnog and mix gently with a spatula or fork until the dough begins to form. It should come together but remain slightly sticky.
  6. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured countertop. Knead by hand for just 5 to 10 seconds until it forms a cohesive mass.
  7. Pat the dough into a round shape about 1 inch thick. This thickness is key for achieving the right texture.
  8. Cut the dough into 8 wedges.
  9. Place the wedges onto an ungreased or Silpat-lined baking sheet. For an extra touch, you may brush the tops with cream and sprinkle some sugar.
  10. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until they are light brown.
  11. Cool the scones on a rack for about 10 minutes before serving.
  12. These scones freeze well, so feel free to batch them up for later enjoyment!

Notes

  • Tip 1: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Tip 2: You can freeze baked scones for up to 2 months. Just reheat them in the oven.
  • Tip 3: Serve with clotted cream or a light drizzle of icing for an extra touch.
  • Tip 4: Try adding nuts or spices such as nutmeg for an added flavor dimension.
  • Tip 5: If you don't have eggnog, you can use milk with a bit of nutmeg or vanilla.

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