Panera Orange Scone Recipe – Easy Meal Recipe

Last Updated on April 9, 2025

As I settle down with my steaming cup of coffee, I often find myself craving something sweet to accompany my morning ritual. If you’re pondering what pairs perfectly with a slice of Panera’s delightful orange scone, look no further. 

Creamy butter adds a rich layer that complements the citrus notes beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, a scoop of zesty cream cheese balances the sweetness with a slight tang. Fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries can provide a burst of flavor, making every bite refreshing. 

And of course, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup can take that sweetness up a notch!

What is Panera Orange Scone?

A delectable treat, the Panera orange scone is a delightful pastry that blends buttery elements with zesty orange flavor. It’s crumbly, yet moist, with bursts of citrus that offer a delightful refreshing taste. 

The scone is topped with a sweet orange glaze that elevates its flavor profile immensely. Think of it as a pastry that’s perfect for any occasion, be it a casual brunch or a fancy tea party!

What Does It Taste Like?

A bite into a Panera orange scone reveals a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The orange zest brings a refreshing brightness, while the baked exterior gives way to a soft, tender interior.

 The glaze adds a sweet touch, contrasting with the subtle saltiness in the base. Overall, it’s a sweet but not overly so, making it a splendid choice for snacking.

Why This Recipe Works

Now, let’s get down to why this recipe is a winner.

1. Fresh Flavor
Using fresh orange zest and juice really makes a difference. It infuses the scone with a vibrant taste that’s hard to replicate with artificial flavorings.

2. Creamy Texture
Incorporating cream cheese not only adds moisture but also makes the scones wonderfully tender. It creates a delightful melt-in-your-mouth quality that keeps you coming back for more.

3. Sweet but Balanced
The combination of fine cane sugar and the bright citrus allows for just the right sweetness. You can enjoy it without it overwhelming your palate.

4. Easy to Make
With straightforward steps, this recipe is approachable, even for novice bakers. You don’t need to have a PhD in pastry to create something delicious.

Ingredients for Panera Orange Scone

Let’s get prepared! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Scones

• 3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon aluminum-free baking powder
• ¾ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ cup fine cane sugar
• Zest of one large, fresh orange
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 6 tablespoons cold European-style unsalted butter
• 4 ounces chilled cream cheese
• 2 large farm-fresh eggs
• ⅓ cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon natural orange essence
• ¼ cup dried cranberries or chopped walnuts

For the Orange Glaze

• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 4 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 teaspoon natural orange essence
• Zest of one large orange
• ½ teaspoon honey

Step by Step Instructions

Let’s get baking! Follow these steps to create your Panera-inspired orange scones.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure even baking and prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and cinnamon. Ensuring these dry ingredients are well combined is essential. It helps in creating that fine texture you want in your scone.

Step 3: Incorporate Butter and Cream Cheese

Cut the cold butter and cream cheese into small chunks and add them to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You want little pieces of fat distributed throughout to achieve flakiness.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the orange zest, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and orange essence. Whisk them together until fully mixed. Next, pour this mixture into your flour blend. Stir until just combined. Avoid over-mixing; a few lumps are okay.

Step 5: Fold in Mix-Ins

Now’s the time to fold in your dried cranberries or walnuts. This adds a little surprise with each bite!

Step 6: Shape the Scones

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Gently pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut into wedges or use a round biscuit cutter to shape them. Place these on your prepared baking sheet, ensuring ample space between them.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the scones are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t brown too much.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

While the scones are cooling, mix the confectioners’ sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and honey in a bowl. Whisk until smooth. Drizzle or spread this glaze over your cooled scones.

Notes

Here are some tips to ensure your scone-making goes smoothly:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh oranges to get the best flavor.
• Cold Butter and Cream Cheese: Make sure they are cold before you start mixing. It helps create that flaky texture.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix until just combined. Overworking can lead to tougher scones.
• Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to try different add-ins like chocolate chips or different nuts.
• Chill the Dough: If you find the dough too sticky, refrigerate it for 15 minutes before shaping.

This information may vary based on specific brands and exact ingredients used.

How to Store the Leftovers?

If you have any scones left (which seems unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. 

For longer storage, consider freezing them! Place them in a freezer bag and they should be good for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them and reheat for a fresh taste.

Sides for Panera Orange Scone

Here are some delightful sides or accompaniments to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad

Incorporating fresh fruits like berries, melons, or kiwis brings a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the scone.

2. Greek Yogurt

A dollop of Greek yogurt adds a creamy contrast that complements the orange scone perfectly. You can even add a drizzle of honey on top.

3. Herbal Tea

Pairing your scone with a cup of fragrant herbal tea elevates the whole experience. Chamomile or mint tea works wonders!

4. Smoothie

A fruity smoothie can enhance your breakfast or snack. Blend your favorite fruits with some yogurt for a nutritious boost.

Alternative Choices for Ingredients

We all know that sometimes life throws a curveball, and you might not have every ingredient on hand. Here are some substitutes you can use:

1. All-Purpose Flour

If you’re out of regular flour, try using whole wheat or almond flour. Note that it may alter the texture a bit.

2. Cream Cheese

You can substitute with Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese for a similar creamy texture.

3. Whole Milk

If you’ve run out of milk, almond milk or oat milk will work just fine in this recipe.

4. Dried Cranberries

If cranberries aren’t available, consider substituting with dried apricots or raisins for a chewiness in every bite.

Conclusion

Baking the Panera orange scone at home brings not only delightful flavors but also the satisfaction of creating something special. 

Follow this recipe, challenge your culinary skills, and indulge in the lively taste of fresh oranges. With the right steps, you can enjoy a treat that rivals your favorite cafe. 

So, gather your ingredients, don your apron, and let’s get baking! It’s time to savor the citrusy delight and make the kitchen smell simply irresistible.

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