Air Fryer Cheese Scones
These Air Fryer Cheese Scones are light, fluffy, and packed with cheesy goodness. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or alongside a bowl of soup, they’re quick to make and even quicker to devour! Using an air fryer gives them a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for added flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a subtle kick)
- 1 cup (100g) grated cheddar cheese (use a sharp variety for more flavor)
- ¼ cup (60g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- ¾ cup (180ml) milk (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 egg (optional, for a shinier top)
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, mustard powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Add Butter: Rub the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Cheese Time: Stir in the grated cheese, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Form the Dough: Make a well in the center and pour in the milk. Mix gently with a fork until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
- Shape the Scones: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently press to about 1-inch thickness. Use a round cutter to cut out scones.
- Brush & Arrange: Brush the tops with milk or a beaten egg for a golden finish. Arrange them in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch.
- Cook: Air fry for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool & Serve: Let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Enjoy warm!
Servings
- Makes about 8 medium-sized scones
Nutritional Information (per scone)
- Calories: ~220
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Tips & Notes
- Cold Ingredients: Keeping the butter and milk cold helps the scones rise better and become flaky.
- Cheese Choice: Use a strong, mature cheddar for maximum flavor. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Parmesan or Gruyère.
- Don’t Overmix: Overworking the dough can make the scones tough. Mix just until combined.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore the crispiness.
- Freezing: These scones freeze well. Just thaw and warm them up in the air fryer before serving.
Benefits
- Quick & Easy: Ready in less than 20 minutes with minimal cleanup.
- Portion Control: Air frying allows you to make smaller batches easily.
- Healthier Option: Using the air fryer reduces the need for excess oil or butter.
Q&A
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but they may be denser. Consider using half all-purpose and half whole wheat for a balanced texture.Can I add herbs or other flavorings?
Absolutely! Chives, thyme, or even a bit of garlic powder work well.What other cheeses work well?
Try using a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor. Mozzarella, Gouda, or blue cheese are great alternatives.Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. However, the texture might be slightly different.
These Air Fryer Cheese Scones are a deliciously cheesy treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy them with a pat of butter, a dollop of jam, or simply on their own!