Cranberry Scones

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: Orange zest, coarse sugar for topping 

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 
2. Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. 
3. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender, fork, or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. 
4. Add Extras: Gently stir in the dried cranberries and orange zest (if using). 
5. Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. 
6. Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. 
7. Shape and Cut: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently press it into a circle about 1 inch thick. 
8. Cut Scones: Use a knife or a biscuit cutter to cut the dough into 8 wedges. 
9. Bake: Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. 
10. Cool: Let the scones cool on a wire rack before serving.