Matcha Cranberry Scones (Printable)

Tender scones with earthy matcha and tart cranberries, ready in 33 minutes for breakfast or tea.

# Ingredient List:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 tablespoons matcha green tea powder
03 - 1/3 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1 tablespoon baking powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Wet Ingredients

06 - 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
07 - 2/3 cup cold whole milk
08 - 1 large egg
09 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Add-ins

10 - 2/3 cup dried cranberries

→ For Finishing

11 - 1 tablespoon milk for brushing
12 - 1-2 tablespoons coarse sugar

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together flour, matcha, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
03 - Add cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces remaining.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together cold milk, egg, and vanilla extract until fully blended.
05 - Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Add dried cranberries. Stir gently with a spatula just until the dough comes together—do not overmix to ensure tender scones.
06 - Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Handle minimally to prevent tough texture.
07 - Cut the dough into 8 equal wedges. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet with space between each scone for even baking.
08 - Brush the tops of each scone with milk and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired for a crispy, sweet topping.
09 - Bake for 16-18 minutes until scones are set and edges are lightly golden. The center should feel firm when gently pressed.
10 - Transfer scones to a wire rack and let cool for 10 minutes. Serve warm with clotted cream, lemon curd, or butter.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The vibrant green color makes these scones feel like something from a fancy bakery, but they come together in under 40 minutes
  • Matcha provides this gentle caffeine buzz that pairs perfectly with an afternoon coffee break
  • Tart cranberries cut through the richness, creating this gorgeous sweet-savory balance that keeps you reaching for seconds
02 -
  • Overworking the dough makes tough scones, so stop mixing as soon as the dough comes together
  • If your butter starts softening while you work, pop everything in the fridge for 15 minutes before continuing
  • These are best the day they are made but can be refreshed in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes
03 -
  • Use a light touch when patting out the dough and avoid pressing down hard, which compacts the flour
  • Freeze your butter for 15 minutes before starting if your kitchen runs warm