Discover how to make mouthwatering cheese scones in an air fryer. This easy recipe ensures perfect scones every time with a crispy outside and fluffy inside.
Cheese scones are a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a mid-day snack. While the traditional baking method involves an oven, using an air fryer can save you time and give you perfectly crispy, golden scones. Imagine biting into a warm, cheesy scone with a soft and fluffy interior—it’s like a hug in food form! In this guide, we will walk you through making cheese scones in an air fryer, step by step, so you can enjoy this delicious snack at home.
Cheese Scones in an Air Fryer
Cheese scones are a popular baked good known for their savory flavor, soft crumb, and cheesy aroma. Traditionally, they are made using an oven, but the air fryer has revolutionized baking by offering a quicker, more efficient way to bake these treats. If you’re new to air frying or want to try a new recipe, making cheese scones in an air fryer is a great place to start!
**Why Use an Air Fryer for Baking Scones?**
The air fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance that can do more than just fry. Using it for baking has several advantages:
– **Quick and Efficient:** Air fryers cook food faster than conventional ovens, thanks to the circulating hot air.
– **Energy Saving:** Less time and energy are required to achieve the same (or better) results.
– **Perfect Crispiness:** The air fryer provides a perfect balance between a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior.
**Ingredients for Air Fryer Cheese Scones**
Before we dive into the process, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need:
– **2 cups self-raising flour**
– **1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced**
– **1 cup grated cheddar cheese**
– **1/2 cup milk**
– **1/4 cup plain yogurt**
– **1/2 teaspoon salt**
– **1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for flavor boost)**
These ingredients are simple and easy to find, making this recipe quick to prepare even for beginners.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cheese Scones in an Air Fryer
**Step 1: Prepare the Dough**
In a mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour and salt. Rub the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the milk and yogurt. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Shape the Scones
Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Gently knead the dough, then roll it out to about 1-inch thickness. Use a round cutter to cut out scones.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for about 3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking oil.
Step 5: Air Fry the Scones
Place the scones in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each. Air fry at 180°C (356°F) for 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the scones to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm, with a pat of butter or a dollop of jam if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Cheese Scones
– **Use cold butter:** This helps create a flaky texture in the scones.
– **Don’t overwork the dough:** Overmixing can result in tough scones.
– **Adjust the cheese:** Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a mix of cheeses for different flavors.
Variations of Cheese Scones
Herb and Cheese Scones
Add a teaspoon of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for an aromatic twist.
Spicy Cheese Scones
Mix in finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Cheese and Onion Scones
Incorporate finely chopped green onions or caramelized onions for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Cheese Scones
Cheese scones can be enjoyed in many ways:
– **Breakfast:** Serve warm with butter and scrambled eggs.
– **Snack:** Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
– **Lunch:** Add a slice of ham or turkey and turn it into a mini sandwich.
Storing and Reheating Cheese Scones
Storing
Place any leftover scones in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
Reheating
To reheat, place the scones back in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 160°C (320°F). This will revive their crispiness.
F A Q
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of self-raising flour?
Yes, but the texture will be denser. You may also need to add a bit of baking powder to help them rise.
2. Can I make these scones ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, cut out the scones, and freeze them. Bake from frozen when needed, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
3. What type of cheese is best for scones?
Cheddar is the most popular choice, but you can also use mozzarella, parmesan, or even a mix of your favorite cheeses.
4. Can I make gluten-free cheese scones in the air fryer?
Yes, simply substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free baking mix. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
5. Why are my scones not rising?
The main reasons could be overworking the dough, using warm butter, or not adding enough baking powder (if not using self-raising flour). Make sure to use fresh ingredients and handle the dough gently.
Conclusion
Cheese scones made in an air fryer are a quick, easy, and delicious treat that can be enjoyed any time of the day.
With a few simple ingredients and a trusty air fryer, you can whip up a batch of these savory scones in no time.
Experiment with different flavors and make your own version of this classic snack. So, why not give it a try and enjoy the perfect
combination of crispiness and fluffiness with every bite?
