If you are looking for a treat that perfectly combines the bright zestiness of orange with the rich indulgence of chocolate, look no further than this Decadent Chocolate Orange Ricotta Scones Recipe. These scones are incredibly tender and moist thanks to ricotta cheese, studded with luscious chunks of dark chocolate, and enlivened by fresh orange zest and juice. They bring together delightful flavors and textures that melt in your mouth and make each bite feel like a special occasion. Whether you want a luxurious breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or an impressive brunch addition, these scones will quickly become a cherished favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that each play an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma. From the creamy ricotta that keeps the scones tender to the bright orange zest that lifts each bite, every component matters.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives the scones structure and a delightful crumb.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 tbsp baking powder: Ensures the scones rise beautifully and develop a light, fluffy texture.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 large zest of orange: Infuses the dough with vibrant citrus notes.
- 1/2 cup cold butter (cut into pieces): Creates flaky layers and richness.
- 1 cup chopped dark or bittersweet chocolate chunks: Melts to pockets of deep chocolate luxury.
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese: Adds moisture and a creamy texture that keeps scones tender.
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream: Enhances richness and helps bind the dough.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For the sweet, silky glaze.
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice (adjust as needed): Provides acidity and freshness to the glaze that beautifully complements the scones.
How to Make Decadent Chocolate Orange Ricotta Scones Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures a hot environment that helps the scones rise quickly with a golden-brown crust. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients and Incorporate Butter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and the fragrant orange zest. Adding the orange zest here releases its oils into the dry mix, infusing every bite with citrus aroma. Next, add the cold, diced butter to the bowl, cutting it into the dry ingredients with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs the size of peas. This step is crucial because these butter bits create the flaky layers that make scones so irresistible. Finally, gently fold in the chocolate chunks, distributing them evenly.
Step 3: Whisk the Ricotta Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, heavy whipping cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This mixture adds moisture and richness to the dough, making the scones tender and soft inside without losing structure.
Step 4: Bring Together Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the ricotta mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients, folding gently but thoroughly until just combined. The dough will be slightly sticky but should hold together when shaped. Be careful not to over-mix to keep the scones light and tender rather than dense.
Step 5: Shape and Cut the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and pat it into a disc roughly 2 inches thick. Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the dough into 8 even wedges. These will look like classic scone shapes, each beautifully showcasing chocolate flecks and the vibrant orange zest throughout.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the wedges spaced apart on your prepared sheet pan and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. The bottoms should turn a lovely golden brown, and the aroma of melted chocolate and citrus will start filling your kitchen.
Step 7: Prepare the Orange Glaze
While the scones cool slightly, whisk the powdered sugar with fresh orange juice to make a thick but pourable glaze. This glaze adds a sweet, tangy finish that perfectly complements the chocolate and ricotta’s richness.
Step 8: Glaze and Set
Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm scones. Let them sit for 15 minutes so the glaze can set and soak slightly into the scone tops, creating a delightful shiny coating with bursts of citrus flavor.
How to Serve Decadent Chocolate Orange Ricotta Scones Recipe
Garnishes
For an added touch, sprinkle a little extra orange zest or finely chopped dark chocolate over the glaze while it is still wet. A small dusting of powdered sugar before serving can also elevate their presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
These scones pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of mascarpone cheese for a decadent experience. For a more refreshing contrast, serve with fresh berries or a fruit compote that highlights the citrus notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your scones on a rustic wooden board with a small jar of homemade marmalade on the side to echo the orange theme. Wrap a few in parchment paper and tie them with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover scones should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh enough to enjoy without losing moisture or flavor.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap scones individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 3 months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat scones in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This brings back crispness to the edges and revitalizes the flavors, making them taste freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat ricotta for this recipe?
While low-fat ricotta can be substituted, whole milk ricotta provides the best richness and moisture balance necessary for tender scones. Using low-fat versions may result in drier or less flavorful scones.
Is it possible to make these scones vegan?
To make a vegan version, try substituting the ricotta with a plant-based alternative such as cashew cream and replace butter with a vegan butter or coconut oil. However, keep in mind the texture and flavor will vary slightly from the original Decadent Chocolate Orange Ricotta Scones Recipe.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can use whole milk in place of heavy cream, but the scones may be less rich and tender. Heavy cream adds fat that improves the texture, so try to use it if possible for the best results.
How do I prevent the chocolate from sinking to the bottom?
Make sure your chocolate chunks are well-coated in flour before folding them into the batter; this helps suspend them evenly throughout the dough rather than settling at the bottom during baking.
Can these scones be made gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking mix designed for pastries, you can make gluten-free versions. Be sure to check the blend’s instructions for additional adjustments needed for moisture or leavening.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the combination of rich chocolate and bright orange in the Decadent Chocolate Orange Ricotta Scones Recipe. These scones deliver a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that will brighten your mornings or sweeten your afternoons. I hope you give this recipe a try and find yourself falling in love with these tender, flavorful scones just as much as I have. Happy baking!
Print
Decadent Chocolate Orange Ricotta Scones Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, European-inspired
Description
These Decadent Chocolate Orange Ricotta Scones are a delightful treat combining the bright zest and juice of fresh oranges with rich dark chocolate chunks and creamy ricotta cheese. Perfectly tender and moist, these scones offer a unique twist on the classic, baked to golden perfection with a luscious orange glaze drizzled on top. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 large orange zest
- 1 cup chopped dark or bittersweet chocolate chunks
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into pieces
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice (adjust for consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and freshly grated orange zest thoroughly to evenly distribute the dry components and citrus flavor.
- Cut in Butter and Add Chocolate: Add the cold butter pieces to the dry mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. Then fold in the chopped dark or bittersweet chocolate chunks evenly.
- Prepare Wet Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk ricotta cheese, heavy whipping cream, and vanilla extract until smooth, creating a creamy base to moisten the dough.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the ricotta mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing carefully until a soft dough forms that can be shaped into a cohesive ball without overworking.
- Shape and Cut Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a disk about 2 inches high. Cut the disk into 8 equal wedges and arrange these on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for expansion.
- Bake the Scones: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the scones for about 15 minutes or until the bottoms turn golden brown and they are cooked through.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the scones from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack to firm up before applying the glaze.
- Make the Glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh orange juice in a small bowl until a thick, pourable glaze forms. Adjust the orange juice quantity to achieve desired consistency.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the orange glaze over the warm scones and let them set for about 15 minutes before serving to allow the glaze to harden slightly and enhance the flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use cold butter straight from the fridge to ensure flaky texture.
- You can substitute bittersweet chocolate with semi-sweet if preferred.
- Adjust the glaze thickness by adding orange juice gradually to avoid it being too runny.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Reheat scones briefly in a warm oven before serving to refresh texture.
