As I stood in my kitchen, the unmistakable aroma of citrus wafted through the air, instantly whisking me back to my favorite café moments. There’s something magical about homemade pastries, especially when they’re as delightful as Copycat Panera Glazed Orange Scones. This recipe will give you that same comforting café experience right in your home, perfect for lazy Sunday mornings or busy weekday breakfasts. These easy homemade scones are not only a budget-friendly alternative but also provide a delightful, sweet citrus flavor with a light, flaky texture. Whether paired with a steaming cup of tea or your morning coffee, these scones are bound to become a beloved addition to your breakfast repertoire. Ready to bring the warmth of a bakery into your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delicious journey together!
Why are these scones a must-try?
Delightful, Citrus Goodness: The bright orange flavor will transform your mornings into something special.
Budget-Friendly: Save money without sacrificing quality; these scones are a wallet-friendly version of the café favorite.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll whip these up in no time!
Perfectly Flaky Texture: Achieve that coveted bakery-style texture with just a few easy steps. For similar delicious breakfast treats, check out our Ginger Soy Glazed dish!
Crowd-Pleaser: These scones are sure to impress family and friends, making them ideal for gatherings or brunches.
Versatile Enjoyment: Pair them with your favorite tea or coffee for a complete café experience at home.
Panera Glazed Orange Scone Ingredients
For the Scones
- All-Purpose Flour – Essential for structure; using this flour yields the perfect balance of tenderness and stability.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; feel free to adjust to your taste for a sweeter glaze.
- Baking Powder – A key leavening agent; make sure it’s fresh for that perfect rise in your scones.
- Fine Salt – Enhances flavor; always opt for fine salt for uniform distribution in the dough.
- Cold Butter – Brings richness and flakiness; keep it cold and cubed to achieve that delightful texture.
- Heavy Cream – Provides moisture and richness; can substitute with whole milk, but expect a slightly different texture.
- Orange Juice Concentrate – Infuses sweetness and citrusy flavor; fresh orange juice can be used but may alter moisture levels.
- Grand Marnier or Orange Extract – Deepens the orange flavor; for a non-alcoholic version, increase orange zest instead.
- Fresh Orange Zest – Delivers aromatic citrus notes; always use fresh zest for maximum flavor.
For the Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – Creates a sweet, smooth glaze; can switch to a powdered sweetener for a sugar-free version.
- Additional Heavy Cream – Adjusts the glaze’s consistency; dairy-free alternatives work well as substitutes too.
Enjoy these Panera Glazed Orange Scones as a perfect homemade treat!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Copycat Panera Glazed Orange Scones
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms, line a baking sheet with parchment paper; this will prevent the scones from sticking and make cleanup easier. Getting this step right ensures your Copycat Panera Glazed Orange Scones will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of fine salt. Whisk together until they are well blended, making sure there are no lumps. This mixture provides the foundation for light and airy scones, essential for replicating that lovely café texture.
Step 3: Incorporate the Cold Butter
Add 6 tablespoons of cold, cubed butter into the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or a fork, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with pea-sized bits of butter remaining. This step is crucial for achieving the flaky layers characteristic of Copycat Panera Glazed Orange Scones, so take your time.
Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate small bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup of heavy cream, ¼ cup of orange juice concentrate, 1 teaspoon of Grand Marnier (or orange extract), and 1 tablespoon of fresh orange zest. Blend until smooth. These ingredients add moisture and a delicious citrus flavor, marrying perfectly with the scone dough.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined; the dough will appear crumbly but should hold together when squeezed. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to dense scones. This is the moment your Copycat Panera Glazed Orange Scones begin to take shape!
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, gently knead the dough just five times until it forms a cohesive ball. Flatten the dough into a circle about ¾-inch thick, roughly 9 to 10 inches in diameter. This shaping will help your scones rise beautifully in the oven.
Step 7: Cut the Scones
Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into an ‘X’ shape, followed by cutting it into a ‘+’ sign, creating 8 triangular scones. This classic method mimics the scone shapes found at cafés, ensuring you get those delightful classic edges ready for baking.
Step 8: Bake the Scones
Transfer the cut scones onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Place them in your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 17 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The rising and golden finish will excite your senses—it’s truly the hallmark of homemade Copycat Panera Glazed Orange Scones!
Step 9: Cool the Scones
Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. This step allows them to firm up and makes glazing easier. The warm, fluffy scones now eagerly await that delectable glaze to top them off.
Step 10: Make the Glaze
While the scones cool, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of orange juice concentrate, 1 tablespoon of heavy cream, and an extra teaspoon of orange zest in a small bowl. The glaze should be thick yet pourable, ready to drape over your glorious Copycat Panera Glazed Orange Scones.
Step 11: Glaze the Scones
Once the scones have slightly cooled, dip the top of each scone into the glaze or spoon it over them generously. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving. This sweet, shiny finish enhances the citrus flavors and adds that café-worthy charm that elevates your breakfast moment.
Expert Tips for Perfect Panera Glazed Orange Scones
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Cold Ingredients Matter: Ensure your butter and heavy cream are very cold; this step is crucial for achieving toasty, flaky layers in the scone.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense scones instead of the light, airy texture you desire.
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Glaze While Warm: Drizzle or dip the glaze over the scones while they are still warm, allowing it to adhere better and soak into the flaky surface.
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Fresh Zest is Key: Always use fresh orange zest for the most vibrant flavor in your Copycat Panera Glazed Orange Scones; dried zest won’t give the same citrus pop.
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Perfect Cutting Technique: Cut the dough into triangles with a sharp knife in one swift motion to achieve clean edges and ensure even baking.
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your scones in the oven; they should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted should come out clean. Adjust baking time as needed based on your oven.
Panera Glazed Orange Scones Variations
Feel free to make these delightful scones your own with these fun twists!
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Lemon Twist: Substitute orange juice concentrate with lemon juice for a tangy zing. The bright flavor will uplift your mornings, adding a refreshing twist to your usual scone routine.
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Berry Bliss: Fold in ½ cup of dried cranberries or blueberries into the dough for an added sweet burst. The combination of citrus and berries creates a delightful party for your taste buds.
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Chocolate Indulgence: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the scone mixture for a decadent treat. Chocolate pairs beautifully with the orange flavors, making every bite feel like a dessert.
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Nutty Goodness: Incorporate chopped walnuts or almonds into the dough for a crunchy texture. Nuts enhance the scone’s richness and provide a satisfying bite.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or ground ginger for a subtle heat. This unexpected twist elevates the sweet orange flavor and adds warmth, perfect for those who like a little spice in their life!
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Glazed Variation: For a gourmet touch, substitute part of the heavy cream in the glaze with cream cheese. This change creates a richer glaze that pairs perfectly with the scone’s light texture.
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Herb-Infusion: Add finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the dough for a fragrant herbal note. This savory addition complements the sweetness of the orange beautifully.
Take your taste buds on a journey! Whether you’re leaning towards fruity, nutty, or spicy additions, these variations will keep your morning routine exciting. And if you’re ever in the mood for some Asian flavors, check out our lovely Ginger Soy Glazed dish that pairs wonderfully with breakfast!
Make Ahead Options
These Copycat Panera Glazed Orange Scones are perfect for meal prep, making your busy mornings a breeze! You can prepare the scone dough up to 24 hours in advance: simply mix the dry ingredients and cut in the cold butter, then refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container. Additionally, you can shape the scones and refrigerate them overnight, ready to bake fresh in the morning. To maintain their quality, be sure to cover them tightly so they don’t dry out. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat your oven and pop them in for 15-17 minutes—you’ll enjoy warm, bakery-style scones with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Panera Glazed Orange Scones
Airtight Container: Store your scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the scones in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen scones, thaw them at room temperature for about an hour or warm them in a preheated oven for a few minutes.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat the scones in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes, bringing back their delightful texture.
What to Serve with Copycat Panera Bread Orange Scones
Savoring these bright, citrusy scones becomes even more delightful with the right pairings to complete your breakfast experience.
- Rich, Creamy Butter: Spread a generous pat on your warm scones for a luscious, rich flavor that perfectly complements the citrus notes.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of berries and melon adds a refreshing crunch and balances the sweetness of the scones with vibrant acidity.
- Classic Breakfast Tea: A steaming cup of your favorite breakfast tea enhances the scone’s flavors, allowing the orange essence to shine brighter.
- Zesty Greek Yogurt: Serve alongside a small bowl of yogurt drizzled with honey to introduce a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the citrus.
- Orange Juice: A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice harmonizes the breakfast experience, aligning with the zesty profile of the scones.
- Coffee with Cream: Enjoying these scones with a rich, brewed coffee accents the sweet glaze and balances the delightful sweetness.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: For a touch of indulgence, these sweet treats contrast with the scone’s citrus notes, elevating any brunch spread.
- Mimosas: Celebrate the morning with a bubbly mimosa; the combination of orange flavor and sparkling wine is simply irresistible!
- Almond Biscotti: This crunchy companion provides a delightful texture contrast, making your breakfast table feel even more like a café experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For a unique twist, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delectable dessert pairing that brightens your day!
Copycat Panera Glazed Orange Scones Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best oranges for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for oranges that are firm and feel heavy for their size, indicating they are juicy. Avoid any with dull or dark spots, as these can signify overripeness. Freshly zested oranges give that extra flavor boost, so always go for fragrant, bright-skinned fruits!
What’s the best way to store leftover scones?
I recommend placing the scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and enjoyable. If you want to save them for later, wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer-safe bag is a great option!
Can I freeze these scones?
Yes! It’s so easy to freeze your Copycat Panera Glazed Orange Scones. First, allow them to cool completely. Next, arrange the scones in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (around 1-2 hours). Afterward, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. To enjoy them later, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat them in a preheated oven.
Why are my scones dense instead of flaky?
Very good question! Dense scones can result from overmixing the dough or using warm ingredients. Make sure your butter and heavy cream are cold, and mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. It’s also essential to use fresh baking powder for proper leavening!
Can these scones be made dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut or almond milk. Just remember that the texture may vary slightly, so aim for a thicker consistency if possible. You’ll still enjoy the bright flavors of these Copycat Panera Glazed Orange Scones!
Are there any allergies I should consider?
Yes, be mindful of common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and nuts. If you need to cater to someone with gluten sensitivities, consider using a gluten-free flour blend. For those avoiding dairy, using appropriate substitutes, as mentioned above, will still allow everyone to enjoy these delightful scones!
Delicious Panera Glazed Orange Scones for a Bright Morning
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk well to blend.
- Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: heavy cream, orange juice concentrate, Grand Marnier, and orange zest.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently five times to form a ball. Flatten into a circle about ¾-inch thick.
- Cut the dough into an ‘X’ shape and then into a ‘+’ sign to create 8 triangular scones.
- Transfer the cut scones to the lined baking sheet and bake for 15-17 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice concentrate, heavy cream, and orange zest in a small bowl.
- Dip the tops of each scone into the glaze or spoon it over them, and allow the glaze to set before serving.