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
Scale
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
