Irish Soda Bread Scones with Raisins and Orange Zest Recipe

If you have a soft spot for that perfect balance of crumbly, buttery, and slightly sweet baked goods, you are going to absolutely adore this Irish Soda Bread Scones with Raisins and Orange Zest Recipe. These scones bring the comforting essence of traditional Irish soda bread together with the delightful burst of juicy raisins and the refreshing hint of orange zest. The result is a warm, tender scone with just the right amount of sweetness and citrus zing, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat with a cup of tea. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a cherished favorite to bake again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple pantry staples that come together to create the magic of this scone recipe. Each plays a crucial role in building the right texture, flavor, and that irresistible golden color.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation giving structure and tenderness to the scones.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: The lift that makes your scones light and fluffy.
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Helping balance the citrus and buttermilk for perfect rise.
• 5 tablespoons sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that complements the raisins and orange zest.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors with just a touch of savory balance.
• 1 stick cold butter: Chilled for that flaky, tender crumb you’ll love.
• 1/2 cup raisins: Juicy bursts of sweetness scattered throughout each bite.
• 1 teaspoon orange zest: Adds fresh brightness and a lovely citrus aroma.
• 1 cup buttermilk, plus 1 tablespoon: Keeps the dough tender and adds a tangy depth.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with subtle warmth and sweetness.

How to Make Irish Soda Bread Scones with Raisins and Orange Zest Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by setting your oven to 425°F (218°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to give your scones that golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt, and that lovely orange zest until evenly combined. This step ensures your citrus flavor is beautifully distributed throughout the dough.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Now for the fun part — cutting in the cold butter. Use a pastry blender, two knives, or even your fingertips to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Those little bits of butter create the flaky texture that makes these scones so dreamy.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in the cup of buttermilk and the vanilla extract, then stir gently just until everything is combined. Don’t overmix here because you want your scones tender, not tough!

Step 5: Fold in Raisins

Gently fold in the plump raisins so they’re evenly distributed without breaking up. These bursts of sweetness will surprise your taste buds in every bite.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it lightly about 5-10 times to bring it together. Then, using a 1/3 cup scoop, make lovely mounds of dough and place them spaced out on a baking sheet. This helps each scone bake evenly.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Use a sharp knife to cut a small “X” on top of each scone. Brush the tops with the remaining tablespoon of buttermilk and sprinkle with a little sugar for that irresistible sparkle and crispness.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Pop the scones into your preheated oven and bake for 13 to 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they are golden brown on top and smell deliciously warm and inviting.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, let the scones cool just slightly on a wire rack before digging in. They’re perfect warm, especially with a pat of butter or your favorite spread.

How to Serve Irish Soda Bread Scones with Raisins and Orange Zest Recipe

Garnishes

While these scones are scrumptious on their own, a little extra flair can take them over the top. Try topping them with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the citrus and raisins.

Side Dishes

Serve these scones alongside a steaming cup of tea or coffee. They also pair wonderfully with homemade jams, clotted cream, or even a smear of cream cheese for breakfast or an afternoon snack that feels like a treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, arrange these scones on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper and surround them with fresh fruit like sliced oranges or berries. It creates an inviting display that highlights their bright, sunny flavors and makes your Irish Soda Bread Scones with Raisins and Orange Zest Recipe the star of any brunch or tea party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your baked scones fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay tender and tasty for up to 2 days—perfect for a quick breakfast or snack the next day.

Freezing

If you want to make a batch ahead of time, these scones freeze beautifully. Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To bring your scones back to life, warm them in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes. This helps restore their freshly baked crispness and melts any spread you might want to add.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of raisins?

Absolutely! Dried cranberries add a lovely tartness that works well with the orange zest and overall flavor profile. Feel free to swap them in the Irish Soda Bread Scones with Raisins and Orange Zest Recipe for a berry twist.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, simply mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before adding to the dough. This homemade substitute maintains the tang that helps the scones rise perfectly.

Can I make these scones vegan?

To create a vegan version, you can replace the butter with a cold vegan butter alternative and swap buttermilk for a plant-based milk with a splash of lemon juice. The texture and flavor may vary slightly but will still be delicious.

Why do I need to cut an “X” on top of the scones?

The “X” helps the heat penetrate the dough evenly during baking and gives the scones that classic look that’s inviting and rustic. It also helps them bake through without cracking unevenly.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Doubling the Irish Soda Bread Scones with Raisins and Orange Zest Recipe works great. Just mix the ingredients in a larger bowl and watch your oven space to make sure the scones bake evenly without overcrowding.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so heartwarming about homemade scones, especially when they’re bursting with juicy raisins and bright orange zest like in this Irish Soda Bread Scones with Raisins and Orange Zest Recipe. I encourage you to try baking these soon —they are perfect for sharing with family and friends or simply enjoying all to yourself with a cozy cup of tea. Once you get a taste, I promise they’ll quickly become one of your go-to recipes for comfort and joy in the kitchen.

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