If you’re looking for a cozy, cheesy treat that comes together effortlessly and bakes up golden and fluffy with a delightful crumb, look no further than this Air Fryer Cheese Scones Recipe. These scones are wonderfully savory, bursting with sharp cheddar flavor, and have just the right tender texture to steal your heart at the very first bite. The magic of the air fryer means a faster, fuss-free baking process that results in perfectly puffed scones every time, making it a beloved recipe for breakfast, snacks, or even a quick tea time indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, familiar ingredients come together in this recipe, each adding its own special touch to the scones’ taste, texture, and color. From the flaky butter to the melty cheddar, every component plays an essential role in creating that irresistible cheddar scone you’ll want to make again and again.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure but stays tender when handled gently.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Offers the perfect rise and fluffiness without heaviness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the cheese’s natural sharpness.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a little warm, subtle heat that complements the cheddar nicely.
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional): A secret ingredient that amps up the cheese flavor with a mild tang.
- ¼ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed: Creates a flaky, tender crumb when cut into the dry ingredients.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the show – sharp, savory, and melty goodness.
- ¾ cup whole milk: Brings the dough together and keeps the scones moist and soft.
- 1 tablespoon milk (for brushing): Helps achieve that beautiful golden top.
- 1 egg (optional, for brushing): An alternative to milk that gives a richer, shinier crust.
- Extra shredded cheese for topping: Adds a cheesy, crispy finishing touch that’s irresistible.
How to Make Air Fryer Cheese Scones Recipe
Step 1: Combine and Cut the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and optional mustard powder in a large bowl. These dry ingredients form the flavor foundation and leavening power for your scones. Next, cut the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it looks like coarse crumbs. You’ll notice those bits of butter are key—they create little steam pockets that help make each scone wonderfully flaky.
Step 2: Add Cheese and Milk
Stir in the sharp cheddar cheese, distributing it evenly through the buttery flour mix. Then, make a well in the middle of the bowl and pour in the milk. Use a gentle folding motion to bring the dough together just until it forms a soft ball. Be careful not to overmix here; keeping the dough tender is essential for light scones.
Step 3: Shape and Cut the Scones
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a round about one inch thick. This step sets the height and shape of your scones, so even patting helps them bake evenly. With a round cutter, cut out your scones and place them on a parchment-lined air fryer tray or basket, giving them a bit of space to expand.
Step 4: Brush and Top
Brush the tops of your scones with either milk or a beaten egg to give them that irresistible golden crust when baked. Sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar cheese on top for that perfect cheesy crunch and visual appeal.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Place the scones in the air fryer and cook at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’ve puffed up and turned a glorious golden brown. Let the scones cool just slightly before serving to allow them to set and to enjoy that melty cheese texture inside without burning your mouth.
How to Serve Air Fryer Cheese Scones Recipe
Garnishes
For a final flourish, top your warm scones with a pat of butter that melts into every nook and cranny, or add a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives for a burst of mild onion flavor and a pop of vibrant green color. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dollop of tangy sour cream or cream cheese pairs beautifully.
Side Dishes
These cheddar scones deserve some tasty companions. Freshly whipped scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or a simple mixed green salad can round out the meal beautifully. For a veggie boost, roasted tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms add a lovely depth and contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try splitting your scones and layering them with slices of ham, extra cheese, and a little mustard for a scrumptious savory sandwich. Or serve alongside a warm tomato soup for dipping – it’s an inviting way to turn these scones into a comforting lunch or dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pop any leftover scones into an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to two days. They stay soft and flavorful, perfect for a snacks or quick breakfasts. For longer storage, refrigeration is an option but may dry them out slightly.
Freezing
These scones freeze beautifully. Wrap individual scones tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months, ready to thaw quickly whenever cravings strike.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, reheat scones in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes. This revives the crispy edges and melty cheese without drying out the center, making leftovers just as delightful as fresh ones.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Sharp cheddar is classic for this recipe, but you can swap it for other flavorful cheeses like gouda, gruyere, or even pepper jack to tailor the scones to your personal taste. Just make sure the cheese is shredded for even distribution.
Do I have to use an air fryer?
While this recipe is designed for the air fryer for quick and even cooking, you can bake the scones in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes. However, the air fryer does give them a wonderfully crisp exterior and fluffy interior more quickly.
What if I don’t have mustard powder?
No worries at all. The mustard powder adds a subtle tang that enhances the cheese flavor, but you can omit it if you don’t have any handy. Your scones will still be deliciously cheesy and tender.
How can I make the scones dairy-free?
Substitute the butter and milk with dairy-free alternatives like vegan butter and unsweetened almond or oat milk. Use a dairy-free cheese substitute if desired. Keep in mind the texture will differ slightly but should still be tasty.
Can I add extra mix-ins to the dough?
Definitely! Fresh chopped chives, cooked and crumbled bacon, or even diced jalapeños work wonderfully with the cheddar in these scones. Just fold them in gently with the cheese before adding the milk.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you enjoy making and savoring this Air Fryer Cheese Scones Recipe as much as I do. It’s such a rewarding treat that feels special yet comes together in a flash, perfect for those busy mornings or relaxed afternoons. Once you discover how easy and delicious these scones are, they might just become your go-to comfort snack or breakfast delight. Give them a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Air Fryer Cheese Scones Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously tender and cheesy scones made quickly and easily in the air fryer. These Air Fryer Cheese Scones feature sharp cheddar cheese and a hint of mustard powder for a flavorful British breakfast or snack option that’s perfectly golden and flaky.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- ¼ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¾ cup whole milk (plus 1 tablespoon for brushing)
- 1 egg (for brushing, optional)
Topping
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese for sprinkling
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and mustard powder if using to ensure even distribution.
- Cut in butter: Add the cold cubed butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, which helps create a flaky texture.
- Add cheese: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly throughout the flour-butter mixture.
- Form dough: Make a well in the center and pour in the milk. Mix gently with a spoon until a soft dough forms; avoid overworking to keep the scones tender and light.
- Shape and cut scones: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick round shape. Use a round cutter to cut out scone rounds and place them on a parchment-lined air fryer tray or basket.
- Prepare for air frying: Brush the tops of the scones with milk or a beaten egg to help achieve a golden finish and sprinkle with extra shredded cheese for added flavor and texture.
- Air fry: Cook the scones in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until they puff up and turn a beautiful golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the air fryer and allow the scones to cool slightly before serving warm, ideally with butter or your favorite spread.
Notes
- Best served warm with butter for the perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- For variety, mix in chives or crumbled cooked bacon into the dough before shaping.
- Avoid overmixing the dough to maintain tender, flaky scones.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: British
