Air Fryer Cheese Scones

Looking for a snack that’s warm, cheesy, and just a little bit indulgent? Say hello to Air Fryer Cheese Scones—your new favorite cozy comfort food! These scones are light, flaky, and full of cheesy goodness in every bite. And the best part? They’re made in an air fryer, which means you get that perfect golden-brown crust without the long wait of preheating an oven. Trust me, these scones are easy to make, but they taste like you spent hours perfecting them. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, afternoon tea, or just because you’re craving something savory, these cheese scones are a total game-changer.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Cheese Scones

Here’s why this recipe is about to become your go-to snack:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes! The air fryer makes it super fast, so you can enjoy warm, cheesy scones in no time.
• Cheesy Perfection: A generous amount of cheese in the dough gives these scones a rich, savory flavor that’s irresistible. The cheese on top gets beautifully melted and slightly crispy, adding to the texture.
• Golden and Flaky: Thanks to the air fryer, you’ll get that perfect crisp outside while the inside stays soft and tender—just like a scone should be.
• No Oven Required: Skip the oven and make these right in your air fryer. It’s perfect for when you don’t want to heat up the whole kitchen.
• Customizable: Add your favorite extras like herbs, garlic, or even some crumbled bacon for a twist. These scones are versatile and perfect for getting creative in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these cheesy, flaky scones:

• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the scone dough. It gives the scones structure and tenderness.
• Baking Powder: Helps the scones rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt: A pinch of salt to balance the flavors and enhance the taste of the cheese.
• Butter: Cold butter helps create the flaky texture. It’s the secret to those tender layers.
• Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show! Sharp cheddar works wonderfully for a bold, cheesy flavor, but feel free to use any cheese you like.
• Milk: Helps bind the dough together and gives the scones a soft, tender crumb.
• Egg: Used for brushing on top of the scones to give them that beautiful golden color.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make some cheesy magic? Let’s dive into the steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and grated cheddar cheese. Add the cold butter and, using your fingers or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You want small, pea-sized pieces of butter for that flaky texture.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Pour in the milk and gently stir until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, or your scones might be tough. You want the dough to be soft but not sticky. If it’s too dry, add a splash more milk. If it’s too wet, sprinkle in a bit more flour.

Step 3: Shape the Scones

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a couple of times to bring it together. Pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 6-8 wedges (like you would a pizza). You can also use a biscuit cutter if you prefer round scones.

Step 4: Air Fry the Scones

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the scone wedges in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching. Brush the tops with a little beaten egg to give them a golden color as they bake.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Air fry the scones for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when the tops are slightly crisp and the cheese is melty and bubbly. Keep an eye on them, as air fryer times can vary slightly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once they’re done, remove the scones from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm with a pat of butter, or enjoy them on their own as a snack.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 210
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 350mg
Potassium: 120mg
Calcium: 170mg

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes

How to Serve Air Fryer Cheese Scones

These scones are great on their own, but here are a few ways to elevate your snack game:

• With Soup: Serve them alongside a hot bowl of soup—tomato, potato leek, or a hearty vegetable soup. The scones are perfect for dipping.
• With Extra Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, top the scones with extra shredded cheese and pop them back in the air fryer for a minute or two until it melts. Extra cheesy goodness!
• For Breakfast: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a savory breakfast treat.
• As a Snack: Enjoy them as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up with a little butter or your favorite spread.

Additional Tips

• Cheese Variety: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, parmesan, or even a mix of your favorites.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: For light, flaky scones, it’s important not to overmix the dough. Just stir until everything comes together, and then stop.
• Add-ins: If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some chopped chives, a pinch of garlic powder, or even a handful of cooked bacon for a savory twist.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make these scones without an air fryer?
A1: Yes! You can bake these scones in a regular oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-18 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

Q2: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A2: You can substitute margarine for butter, but the texture might be slightly different. Butter gives the best flakiness.

Q3: Can I freeze these scones?
A3: Yes! After baking, let the scones cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the air fryer or oven for a quick snack.

Q4: Can I use non-dairy milk?
A4: Absolutely! You can use almond milk, oat milk, or any non-dairy milk of your choice. The texture might vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Q5: How can I make these scones dairy-free?
A5: You can substitute the butter with dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative in place of the cheddar.

Q6: How do I know when the scones are fully cooked?
A6: The scones are done when they are golden brown on top, and when you tap the bottom, it sounds hollow. You can also insert a toothpick—if it comes out clean, they’re ready!

Q7: Can I add herbs to the dough?
A7: Yes! Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives would pair beautifully with the cheese. Just chop them finely and fold them into the dough.

Q8: Can I use a different shape for the scones?
A8: Of course! You can shape the dough into rounds using a biscuit cutter or make smaller bite-sized scones for a party appetizer.

Q9: How do I store leftover scones?
A9: Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.

Q10: Can I make these scones spicy?
A10: Absolutely! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Cheese Scones are a savory, cheesy treat that’s super simple to make and perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re craving a snack, looking for the perfect breakfast, or need something to go with soup, these scones deliver. Light, flaky, and packed with flavor, they’re bound to be a hit in your home. Happy baking!

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