Description
These Orange Raisin Scones are tender, buttery, and full of citrusy flavor with a delightful sweetness from raisins. The use of amasi (a fermented milk popular in Southern Africa) and fresh orange juice gives them a lovely tang and moist crumb. Perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a cozy snack!
🌿 Introduction
Scones are a beloved classic, but this version adds a South African twist with amasi instead of cream or buttermilk. The amasi lends a subtle tanginess that complements the bright flavor of orange zest and juice. Combined with plump raisins, these scones are fragrant, soft, and full of comforting flavor.
🧺 Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
¼ cup (50 g) sugar
½ cup (80 g) raisins
Wet Ingredients:
½ cup (120 ml) amasi (or buttermilk as a substitute)
¼ cup (60 ml) fresh orange juice
1 large egg
1 tsp grated orange zest
¼ cup (60 g) cold butter, cubed
Optional Glaze:
¼ cup (30 g) powdered sugar
1 tbsp orange juice
🍊 Instructions
Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix dry ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
Cut in butter:
Add the cold butter cubes. Rub them into the flour with your fingertips (or use a pastry cutter) until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add raisins and zest:
Stir in the raisins and orange zest.
Mix wet ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the amasi, orange juice, and egg until smooth.
Combine mixtures:
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a fork until just combined. Do not overmix — the dough should be slightly sticky.
Shape the dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a circle about 2.5 cm (1 inch) thick. Cut into triangles or rounds.
Bake:
Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Optional glaze:
Mix powdered sugar with orange juice until smooth and drizzle over cooled scones.
💡 Tips
Keep your butter cold for flakier scones.
Don’t overwork the dough; handle it gently.
For extra flavor, soak the raisins in a bit of orange juice or amasi for 10 minutes before adding.
You can brush the tops with a little milk or beaten egg before baking for a glossy finish.
🌈 Variations
Cranberry Orange: Substitute raisins with dried cranberries.
Nutty Delight: Add ¼ cup chopped pecans or almonds.
Glazed Luxury: Top with a thicker orange icing and candied orange peel.
Whole Wheat Version: Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
🧁 Corrections / Adjustments
If your scones turn out:
Too dense: Make sure your baking powder is fresh and don’t overmix.
Too dry: Add a splash more amasi or orange juice.
Too sticky: Sprinkle a bit of extra flour when shaping the dough.
😊 Enjoy!
Serve warm with butter, marmalade, or a dollop of cream. Pair with a cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee for the ultimate treat!