A Moist, Flavor-Packed Treat Perfect for Any Time of Day
If you’re looking for a refreshingly delicious twist on classic scones, this Orange Raisin Scones recipe with Amasi and Orange Juice is the ultimate baked good to try. Moist, citrusy, and packed with plump raisins, these scones offer a delicate balance of sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee.
Let’s explore why this unique recipe—highlighting amasi, a traditional fermented milk from Southern Africa, and vibrant orange juice—deserves a spot in your regular baking rotation.
Why You’ll Love These Orange Raisin Scones
There’s something deeply comforting about a warm, freshly baked scone. Add the sunny brightness of orange zest and juice, the chewy sweetness of raisins, and the creamy tang of amasi, and you’ve got a scone that hits all the right notes. These scones are:
- Moist and tender thanks to the cultured amasi
- Bright and flavorful with orange zest and juice
- Perfectly sweetened with golden raisins or sultanas
- Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or teatime
- Easy to make and freezer-friendly!
What is Amasi?
Amasi is a fermented dairy product popular in South African cuisine, known for its slightly tangy flavor and creamy texture. It’s similar to buttermilk or kefir and is often used in baking to tenderize dough and enhance moisture.
If you can't find amasi at your local store, a good substitute would be:
- Buttermilk
- Sour milk (1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar)
- Plain yogurt thinned with a bit of milk
Ingredients You'll Need
Here’s everything required to make these flavorful orange raisin scones:
Dry Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons orange zest (from a large fresh orange)
- ¾ cup raisins or sultanas
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter (cut into small cubes)
- 1 cup amasi (or buttermilk)
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Top (Optional):
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
- Extra orange zest or coarse sugar for garnish
How to Make Orange Raisin Scones with Amasi and Orange Juice
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F).
Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
Stir in the orange zest and raisins, mixing gently to coat the raisins with flour.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture.
Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This ensures flaky, tender scones.
Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the amasi, orange juice, and vanilla extract. This mixture will add both moisture and a bright citrusy flavor to the scones.
Step 5: Form the Dough
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring with a spatula or wooden spoon until a soft, sticky dough forms.
If the dough seems too wet, sprinkle in a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a splash more orange juice.
Tip: Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense, tough scones.
Step 6: Shape the Scones
Lightly flour your work surface and turn out the dough.
Gently knead the dough 2–3 times until it comes together.
Pat it into a 1-inch thick round and cut it into wedges or use a round biscuit cutter for classic scone shapes.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the scones on your prepared tray, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar or additional orange zest if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
How to Serve Orange Raisin Scones
These scones are best served warm, ideally straight out of the oven.
Try them with:
- Butter and orange marmalade
- Cream cheese with a drizzle of honey
- Clotted cream and a dollop of jam
- A simple orange glaze made with icing sugar and orange juice
Pair your scones with a comforting cup of black tea, chai, or a smooth coffee.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
These scones store and reheat beautifully, making them ideal for weekly meal prepping or quick breakfasts.
To store:
Place cooled scones in an airtight container. They will keep well at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for 5 days.
To freeze:
Wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat in a 160°C (320°F) oven for 8–10 minutes to refresh them.
Optional Orange Glaze (Quick Recipe)
Want to give your scones an extra citrusy shine? Whip up this easy glaze:
Ingredients:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- ½ teaspoon orange zest (optional)
Instructions:
Mix until smooth and drizzle over cooled scones.
Expert Tips for Success
Want perfect scones every time? Follow these quick tips:
- Use cold butter – This creates flaky, tender layers.
- Don’t overmix – Stop stirring once the dough just comes together.
- Let dough rest – Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before shaping.
- Chill before baking – For taller scones, place the shaped dough in the fridge for 10 minutes before baking.
- Cut straight down – Avoid twisting your cutter, which seals the edges and prevents rising.
Fun Variations to Try
Love this recipe? Try switching it up with these creative scone ideas:
- Cranberry Orange Scones – Replace raisins with dried cranberries.
- Spiced Citrus Scones – Add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Orange Chocolate Chip Scones – Swap raisins for chocolate chips.
- Lemon Raisin Scones – Substitute lemon juice and zest for orange.
The Cultural Charm of Amasi
Amasi isn’t just an ingredient—it’s a cherished staple in South African households. Traditionally made by fermenting raw, unpasteurized milk, it’s packed with probiotics and nutrients that promote digestion and gut health.
Incorporating amasi into baking is not only delicious—it also connects modern recipes with traditional African culinary heritage. This scone recipe is a beautiful way to celebrate that fusion.
FAQs
Can I make these scones vegan?
Yes! Use vegan butter and substitute amasi with a plant-based yogurt or non-dairy milk with vinegar. Use a flax egg or skip the egg wash.
Can I use store-bought orange juice?
Fresh orange juice is recommended for its zesty brightness, but high-quality store-bought juice works too. Just be sure it’s 100% juice with no added sugars.
Can I make mini scones?
Absolutely! Just shape smaller rounds or triangles and reduce the baking time to 10–12 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Orange Raisin Scones Recipe with Amasi and Orange Juice offers a delightful spin on a beloved classic. Moist, zesty, sweet, and satisfying, these scones are the perfect homemade treat to enjoy any time of day.