Creating your batch of Orange Cranberry Cream Scones is easy when you follow these straightforward steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the heavy cream, orange zest, cranberries, and vanilla extract until just combined. Do not overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.
5. Shape the Dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out. Pat it into a 1-inch thick round disk.
6. Cut Scones: Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to cut the dough into 8 wedges. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the scones to give them a beautiful golden color as they bake.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown.
9. Cool: Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.

With these steps, you’re sure to bake a batch of delicious scones that will delight anyone who takes a bite!