1-Bowl Cranberry Orange Scones (Vegan + GF)

 1-Bowl Cranberry Orange Scones (Vegan + GF) are a perfect combination of tangy cranberries and refreshing orange zest, with a flaky texture and a subtle sweetness. They’re easy to make and require just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze. Here's a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Scones:

2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (make sure it contains xanthan gum, or add 1 tsp)

1/4 cup coconut sugar (or your preferred sweetener)

1 tbsp baking powder (ensure it’s gluten-free if needed)

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

1/2 cup coconut oil (or vegan butter), cold and cubed

1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped if large

Zest of 1 orange

1/4 cup fresh orange juice

1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any non-dairy milk)

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tbsp maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)

For the Glaze (Optional):

1/4 cup powdered sugar (or coconut powdered sugar)

1-2 tsp fresh orange juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, coconut sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using).

3. Cut in the Coconut Oil:

Add the cold coconut oil (or vegan butter) to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the fat into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Add the Wet Ingredients:

Add the chopped cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, almond milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup (if using). Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the scones dense.

5. Shape the Dough:

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface (you can use gluten-free flour or parchment paper) and gently knead it together a few times. Pat it into a round disk about 1-inch thick.

Cut the dough into 8 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

6. Bake the Scones:

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the scones are lightly golden around the edges and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Make the Glaze (Optional):

While the scones are cooling, mix the powdered sugar and orange juice in a small bowl to make a simple glaze. Adjust the consistency by adding more juice if needed.

Drizzle the glaze over the scones once they have cooled slightly.

8. Serve:

Enjoy these 1-Bowl Cranberry Orange Scones with a cup of tea or coffee, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack!

Tips:

Dried Cranberries: If fresh cranberries are not available, you can substitute with dried cranberries. Just make sure to chop them smaller.

Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup or sugar to the glaze if you prefer a sweeter scone.

Storage: Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in a warm oven to restore their texture.

These 1-Bowl Cranberry Orange Scones are a delicious, easy-to-make treat that are vegan, gluten-free, and full of bright, zesty flavors!