Christmas Scones That Bring Holiday Joy in Every Bite

Name: Christmas Scones That Bring Holiday Joy in Every Bite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

November 19, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh, the holidays are just around the corner, and you know what that means—it’s time to fill our kitchens with the delightful aroma of baking! I absolutely adore this time of year because there’s something truly magical about sharing home-baked treats with friends and family. This is where my *Christmas scones* come into play. They’re not just any scones; they’re the embodiment of the festive spirit, packed with crunchy walnuts and chewy cranberries, making them a perfect addition to your holiday spread.

Picture this: a cozy gathering, laughter echoing through the room, and a warm tray of scones right in the center, inviting everyone to dig in. They’re fluffy on the inside with just the right amount of sweetness, and trust me, they pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Each bite offers a little taste of joy that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or just want a sweet treat to enjoy by the fire, these scones are sure to become a festive favorite. Let’s get to baking, shall we?

Ingredients for Christmas Scones

Alright, let’s gather everything you’ll need to whip up these delicious *Christmas scones*! Having everything ready to go makes the process so much smoother, and trust me, you’ll want to savor every step of this baking adventure.

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (this is key for that flaky texture!)
1/2 cup dried cranberries (I love the tartness they bring!)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (for that delightful crunch)
1/2 cup heavy cream (this keeps them rich and moist)
1 egg (for binding and a lovely golden color)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (because who doesn’t love a hint of vanilla?)

Make sure to measure everything accurately, and don’t forget to have a cheerful spirit while you do it! You’ll be amazed at how these simple ingredients transform into something magical. Let’s keep that holiday spirit alive, one ingredient at a time!

How to Prepare Christmas Scones

Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—baking these *Christmas scones*! I promise, it’s easier than you might think. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to creating a holiday masterpiece.

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is super important because it ensures that your scones will bake evenly and rise beautifully!
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Give it a good whisk to make sure everything is well blended. Trust me, this step helps everything mix evenly.
Now, it’s time to add the cold, cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, mix it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth; those little chunks of butter are what make the scones flaky!
Next, gently stir in the dried cranberries and chopped walnuts. This is where the magic begins—those bursts of flavor will make every bite delightful!
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. This creamy mixture will bring everything together.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! We want the dough to be a little shaggy but fully moistened.
Now, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it just a few times—this is key for developing that lovely texture. You don’t want to overwork it, so keep it light!
Shape the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick. Then, using a sharp knife, cut it into wedges (like a pizza!). You can make as many as you like, but I usually aim for 8 scones for the perfect serving size.
Place the wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each one. This helps them rise and bake evenly!
Finally, pop them in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly.
Once they’re out, let them cool for just a few minutes, and then dig in! I recommend serving them warm with a pat of butter or a dollop of cream for that extra festive touch.

And there you have it! Simple, straightforward steps that lead to delightful *Christmas scones*. Enjoy the process and the lovely aromas filling your kitchen as you bake!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare—whip up a batch in just 35 minutes!
Delightful combination of sweet cranberries and crunchy walnuts.
Perfect balance of flaky texture and rich flavor, making each bite a holiday treat.
Brings the festive spirit right into your home, filling it with warm, inviting aromas.
Versatile enough to enjoy for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack with tea.
Great for sharing at holiday gatherings or cozy family moments by the fire.
Easy to customize with different fruits or nuts based on your preferences.

Trust me, once you try these *Christmas scones*, they’ll become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire! You won’t be able to resist that festive cheer they bring with every bite.

Tips for Success with Christmas Scones

Alright, my fellow bakers, let’s make sure you nail these *Christmas scones*! I’ve gathered some of my favorite tips to help you get the best results every time. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will make a world of difference!

Keep that butter cold: Seriously, this is a game changer! Cold butter is key for achieving that flaky texture we all love. If your kitchen is warm, pop the butter in the freezer for a few minutes before you start.
Don’t overmix the dough: When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing will lead to tough scones, and we definitely want them light and tender!
Use a light hand when kneading: Gently knead the dough only a few times on a floured surface. We’re not looking to build gluten here; just enough to bring it together. Think of it like a gentle hug!
Cut scones evenly: For even baking, make sure your scone wedges are about the same size. This way, they’ll all bake at the same rate and you won’t end up with a mix of doughy and overcooked pieces.
Chill the dough if needed: If your dough feels too soft or sticky, don’t hesitate to chill it for 10-15 minutes before shaping. This helps solidify the butter and makes it easier to work with.
Check for doneness: Keep an eye on them as they bake! You want them golden brown and cooked through. If they’re not quite there, give them a couple of extra minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning!
Serve warm: These scones are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven or slightly cooled. The warm scones with a bit of butter or cream? Pure bliss!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to baking the most delicious *Christmas scones* ever! So roll up your sleeves and let’s get to it!

Variations on Christmas Scones

If you’re anything like me, you love to get a little creative in the kitchen! These *Christmas scones* are a fantastic base for all kinds of delicious variations. So, let’s explore some fun ideas to mix things up and make each batch uniquely yours!

Fruit Fiesta: Swap out the dried cranberries for other dried fruits like cherries, apricots, or even figs. Each fruit brings its own twist of flavor that can brighten up your scones!
Nuts About Nuts: Instead of walnuts, try using pecans, almonds, or macadamia nuts. Each nut adds a different crunch and flavor profile that can complement the sweetness of the scones.
Spice it Up: For a cozy twist, add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the dry ingredients. This will give your scones that warm, spiced holiday aroma that’s just irresistible!
Zesty Citrus: Grate some orange or lemon zest into the dough for a refreshing citrus kick. The bright flavors will make these scones even more delightful!
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in some chocolate chips or chunks for a decadent touch. Dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the scones and makes for a delightful treat!
Maple Magic: Replace the sugar with maple syrup for a rich, caramel-like sweetness. Just be sure to adjust the wet ingredients slightly to maintain the right dough consistency.

Feel free to experiment with these variations, or even come up with your own! The beauty of these *Christmas scones* is their versatility, so let your imagination run wild. Each batch can tell a different story, making your holiday baking even more special. Happy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve baked your delightful *Christmas scones*, let’s talk about how to keep them fresh and delicious for as long as possible! Proper storage is key to making sure those lovely flavors and textures last, and reheating them correctly will ensure they taste just as good as when they first came out of the oven.

To store your scones, let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once they’re cool, place them in an airtight container. This keeps them from drying out—nobody wants a sad scone, right? You can store them at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you think you won’t finish them in that time, pop them in the fridge to extend their life for another couple of days.

But wait, what about longer storage? If you want to keep them for later, they freeze beautifully! Just wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.

Now, to reheat your scones and bring back that fresh-baked goodness, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for about 15-20 seconds, but be careful not to overdo it, or they can get a bit rubbery.

Once they’re warmed up, serve them with a pat of butter or a dollop of cream to really elevate that festive experience. Trust me, there’s nothing like a warm *Christmas scone* to bring the holiday spirit back into your home!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of these delightful *Christmas scones*! It’s always good to have an idea of what we’re indulging in, right? However, keep in mind that nutritional values can vary quite a bit based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose to use.

As a general guideline, here’s an estimated breakdown for one scone:

Calories: 220
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g

These numbers are just a ballpark, so if you’re tracking your intake or have specific dietary needs, it’s a great idea to calculate based on your exact ingredients. Enjoy these festive treats in moderation, and remember—it’s all about balance and savoring the holiday spirit!

FAQ About Christmas Scones

Got questions about making those scrumptious *Christmas scones*? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my best answers to help you achieve scone perfection!

Can I use whole wheat flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute half or even all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and a bit more fiber. Just keep in mind that whole wheat flour can make the scones denser, so you might want to adjust the liquid slightly if the dough feels too dry.

How do I make them sweeter?
If you’d like your scones to have a sweeter kick, simply add a bit more sugar to the dough. Start with an extra tablespoon or two, and taste the dough (yes, it’s safe!) before baking. You can also drizzle some icing on top after they cool for an extra touch of sweetness!

Can I make these scones ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and freeze it. Just shape the scones and place them on a baking sheet, then freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, you can pop them straight from the freezer into the oven—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time!

What’s the best way to serve them?
Oh, there are so many ways! These scones are delightful served warm with a pat of butter or a dollop of clotted cream. You can also try them with a spread of your favorite jam or preserves. They pair wonderfully with tea or coffee for that perfect cozy moment!

Can I add fresh fruit instead of dried?
While fresh fruit can be delicious, I recommend sticking with dried fruits for this recipe. Fresh fruit has a higher moisture content, which can affect the dough’s consistency. If you really want to use fresh fruit, consider reducing the amount of heavy cream slightly to compensate for the added moisture.

How do I know when they’re done baking?
You’ll know they’re done when they’re beautifully golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you give them a gentle tap, they should sound hollow. Trust your nose too—your kitchen will be filled with that delightful baking aroma!

Can I use different nuts?
Definitely! Feel free to switch out walnuts for your favorite nuts, like pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Each nut brings a unique flavor and crunch, making your scones even more exciting!

Hopefully, these answers help you with your *Christmas scones* adventure! Remember, baking is all about having fun and experimenting, so don’t be afraid to make these scones your own. Happy baking!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.