Air Fryer Cheese Scones

Quick Description

These Air Fryer Cheese Scones are soft, flaky, and loaded with sharp cheddar cheese, making them the perfect snack or breakfast. With a golden, crispy crust and tender, cheesy interior, they’re a savory treat that’s quick and easy to make in the air fryer.

Servings & Timing

• Serves: 6-8 scones
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: ~20 minutes

Ingredients List

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup cold butter, cubed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¾ cup milk
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Cut in the Butter:
   Add the cold, cubed butter into the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your hands to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the Cheese:
   Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
4. Make the Dough:
   Gradually add the milk and mix until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough. It should be soft and slightly sticky.
5. Form the Scones:
   Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together. Pat it into a disc shape, about 1-inch thick. Use a knife or bench scraper to cut the dough into 6-8 wedges (depending on how large you want the scones).
6. Brush with Egg Wash:
   Place the scones onto a parchment paper-lined air fryer basket or tray. Brush the tops of the scones with the beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish.
7. Air Fry the Scones:
   Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Air fry the scones for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. The tops should be firm and the edges crispy.
8. Serve:
   Let the scones cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with butter or your favorite dip!

Nutrition (per serving, assuming 8 scones)
(Approximate values per scone)

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 6g
• Carbs: 22g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Benefits

• Quick & Easy: These scones are ready in under 20 minutes, making them perfect for a last-minute snack or breakfast.
• Cheesy Goodness: The sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich, savory flavor to every bite.
• Air-Fried: A healthier version of traditional scones that are still crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with less oil than deep-frying.
• Kid-Friendly: These scones are a hit with kids, making them a great addition to family breakfasts or snack times.

Additional Notes

• For Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs (like rosemary or thyme) to the dough for more depth of flavor.
• Cheese Variations: You can substitute the cheddar cheese with other cheeses like gouda, parmesan, or a cheese blend for a different twist.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a plant-based butter substitute and non-dairy milk to make these scones dairy-free.

Dietary Info

• High-Protein: Yes (from cheese and milk)
• Low-Carb: Moderate (due to flour)
• Gluten-Free Option: No (unless using a gluten-free flour substitute)
• Dairy-Free Option: Yes (with substitutions)

Brief Introduction

These Air Fryer Cheese Scones are the perfect combination of crispy outside and soft, cheesy inside. They’re incredibly easy to make, and the air fryer gives them the perfect texture in no time. Great for breakfast, brunch, or a savory snack, these scones are sure to satisfy your cravings!

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

1. Prepare Dry Ingredients: Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
2. Cut in the Butter: Work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Make the Dough: Add the milk and mix until the dough just comes together.
5. Form and Cut the Dough: Shape the dough into a disc and cut it into wedges.
6. Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the scones with beaten egg for a golden finish.
7. Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer and cook the scones until golden and firm.
8. Serve: Cool slightly and serve warm.

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

• Butter: Cold butter is key to achieving a flaky texture. You can use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute for a non-dairy version.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor, but you can use any cheese you prefer. A mild cheese will give a subtler flavor.
• Milk: Use any milk you prefer, including dairy-free options like almond or oat milk.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

• Add Bacon: Crumble crispy bacon into the dough for a savory bacon-and-cheese scone.
• Serve with Soup: These scones pair wonderfully with soups and stews, adding a cheesy, hearty element to your meal.
• Top with Butter: For extra richness, serve warm with a pat of butter or a dollop of sour cream.

Storage & Make-Ahead

• Refrigerate: Store leftover scones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave.
• Freeze: You can freeze the scones before baking. Simply freeze them on a tray, then store them in a freezer bag. When ready, air fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

• Can I make these scones without an air fryer?
  Yes, you can bake them in a conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
• Can I use self-raising flour instead of all-purpose flour?
  Yes, you can substitute self-raising flour but omit the baking powder, as it’s already included in the self-raising flour.
• Can I add herbs or spices to the dough?
  Yes, adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, or even garlic powder will enhance the flavor of the scones.

Optional Personal Story

I love making these Air Fryer Cheese Scones when I want something quick and cheesy for breakfast. The air fryer makes them so crispy, and the inside stays soft and flavorful. Plus, they’re super customizable, and everyone in my family loves them!