Introduction
There’s something deeply comforting about warm, cheesy scones fresh from the air fryer, especially when they come together with very little effort. This recipe is loved because it delivers bakery-style results at home without complicated steps or long baking times. Thanks to the air fryer, the scones develop a golden exterior while staying soft and fluffy inside, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a savory snack. Even better, they rely on simple pantry ingredients and a straightforward method that anyone can follow. Whether you’re craving something cozy on a quiet afternoon or need a quick option for unexpected guests, these scones feel both indulgent and reassuring. Once you try them, they quickly become a recipe you return to again and again.
Ingredients
Servings: 8 scones
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for depth of flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup (60 g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- ¾ cup (180 ml) milk
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances the cheese)
- 1 tablespoon milk, for brushing the tops
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- Mix the flour, baking powder, salt, mustard powder, black pepper, and sugar in a large bowl until evenly combined.
- Add the cold butter cubes to the bowl.
- Rub the butter into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, distributing it evenly throughout the mixture.
- Pour in the milk gradually while mixing gently until a soft dough forms.
- Bring the dough together with your hands, being careful not to overwork it.
Shape the Scones
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
- Pat it gently into a round disc about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick.
- Cut the dough into 8 equal wedges using a sharp knife.
- Brush the tops lightly with milk to encourage browning.
Air Fry the Scones
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (180°C) for 3 minutes.
- Arrange the scones in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes until the scones are golden and cooked through.
- Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Remove the scones carefully and let them cool slightly before serving.
Why Air Fryer Scones Work So Well
Air fryers excel at circulating hot air evenly, which is ideal for baking scones quickly. As a result, the exterior becomes crisp while the inside stays tender. Unlike traditional ovens, the air fryer heats faster and requires less energy. Additionally, the shorter cooking time means less chance of overbaking. Because the dough doesn’t need yeast or resting time, this method suits busy schedules perfectly. In contrast to store-bought versions, homemade scones allow you to control both texture and flavor, making each batch consistently satisfying.
Choosing the Right Cheese
Cheddar is a classic choice because it melts well and provides a sharp, savory bite. However, other cheeses work beautifully too. For instance, Gruyère adds nuttiness, while mozzarella creates a milder, stretchy interior. Additionally, a blend of cheeses can elevate the flavor profile even more. Just make sure the cheese is finely shredded so it incorporates smoothly into the dough. Avoid overly soft cheeses, as they may release too much moisture during cooking.
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Tips
Serve these cheese scones warm for the best texture and flavor. They pair wonderfully with butter, cream cheese, or a spoonful of savory jam. Additionally, they complement soups, salads, or eggs for a complete meal. For brunch, serve them alongside fresh fruit and hot tea or coffee. If you’re hosting, arrange them in a basket lined with a cloth napkin to keep them warm and inviting.
Storage Tips
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap each scone individually and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat refrigerated or frozen scones in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
Helpful Notes
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have all-purpose flour, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can be used with good results. Additionally, plant-based milk works as a substitute for regular milk. If butter isn’t available, cold margarine can replace it, although the flavor will differ slightly.
Optional Add-Ins
To customize the scones, add chopped chives, green onions, or cooked bacon bits to the dough. Alternatively, a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder adds depth. For a spicier version, mix in finely diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Time-Saving Tricks
Using pre-shredded cheese and cubed butter straight from the fridge speeds up preparation. Meanwhile, you can mix the dry ingredients ahead of time and store them until ready to bake. As a result, these scones can go from bowl to air fryer in just minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can lead to dense scones. Additionally, ensure the butter stays cold to create a flaky texture. Overcrowding the air fryer basket is another common issue, so cook in batches if necessary.
Chef Tips
• For extra flavor, sprinkle a little grated cheese on top before air frying.
• For softer scones, cover them loosely with foil for the first half of cooking, then uncover to brown.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these scones without an air fryer?
Yes, bake them in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes.
2. Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking.
3. How do I reheat leftover scones?
Reheat them in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to restore warmth and texture.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely, most hard or semi-hard cheeses work well in this recipe.
5. Why did my scones turn out dense?
Overmixing the dough or using warm butter can cause dense results.
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it, pin it for later, or share it with friends and family. Let us know how it turned out for you, and your support encourages us to keep creating and sharing more delicious recipes.
