There's nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked scones wafting through the air in the morning. Among the vast array of scone recipes, cranberry - chocolate scones stand out as a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors. These scones are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a perfect addition to your breakfast or brunch spread.

To start making these delicious cranberry - chocolate scones, you'll need a few key ingredients. First, gather 2 1/2 cups of all - purpose flour. The flour forms the base of the scone, giving it structure and texture. Next, you'll need 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. The sugar adds a touch of sweetness that complements the tart cranberries and rich chocolate.

Don't forget about the leavening agents. Add 1 tablespoon of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. These ingredients are crucial as they help the scones rise and become light and fluffy. A pinch of salt is also necessary to enhance the overall flavor profile. It balances out the sweetness and brings out the other flavors in the scone.

For the fats, you'll need 8 tablespoons (1 stick) of cold unsalted butter. Cut the butter into small pieces and incorporate it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The cold butter creates pockets of fat in the dough, which melt during baking and result in a flaky texture. You can use a pastry cutter or your fingers to achieve this consistency.

Now, it's time to add the star ingredients: 1 cup of dried cranberries and 3/4 cup of semi - sweet chocolate chips. The dried cranberries bring a burst of tartness, while the chocolate chips offer a rich, indulgent flavor. These two ingredients together create a harmonious blend that is simply irresistible.

To bind the dough, you'll need 3/4 cup of buttermilk. Slowly pour the buttermilk into the dry ingredient mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to over - mix the dough, as this can make the scones tough. Once the dough comes together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.

Pat the dough into a round about 1 - inch thick. Use a sharp knife to cut the round into 8 equal wedges. Place the wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops of the scones with a little bit of milk or cream. This will give the scones a golden - brown crust when baked.

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the scones for 12 - 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary depending on your oven. Once the scones are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes.

These cranberry - chocolate scones are best served warm. You can enjoy them on their own, or pair them with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. They are also a great option to share with friends and family during a weekend brunch. You can even customize the recipe by adding a drizzle of icing on top. Simply mix powdered sugar with a little bit of milk until you get a smooth, pourable consistency, and then drizzle it over the cooled scones.

In conclusion, cranberry - chocolate scones are a wonderful addition to your breakfast or brunch routine. They are easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to become a favorite in your household. So, the next time you're looking for a delicious and comforting morning treat, give these scones a try. Your taste buds will thank you!