Air fryers have transformed the way we cook and enjoy our favorite baked treats. Among them, scones stand out as a delightful option that brings comforting flavors and textures with the added advantage of being quicker to prepare than traditional methods. With their tender crumb and golden edges, air fryer scones offer a deliciously easy baking experience without the hassle.
Why We Love This Air Fryer Scones Recipe
This air fryer scones recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves freshly baked goods but lacks the time or patience for conventional baking. The air fryer circulates hot air, allowing scones to rise beautifully while achieving a perfectly crispy exterior. You can enjoy the light, buttery flavor of homemade scones without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the versatility of toppings and flavors means you can easily customize your scones to suit your taste. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, this recipe lets you explore different flavor profiles without the stress of traditional baking.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Scones Recipe
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk or a dairy-free alternative
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or dried fruit
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. If you’re adding chocolate chips or dried fruit, fold them in at this stage.
- Flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it. Gently knead the dough a couple of times until it holds together.
- Pat the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter for uniform shapes.
- Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
- Arrange the scones in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece for air circulation.
- Air fry the scones for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You might want to check them at the 8-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
- Once done, remove them carefully and let them cool on a wire rack.
How to Serve Air Fryer Scones Recipe
Serving air fryer scones is all about enhancing their warm, buttery goodness. You can serve them plain, or with a spread of your choice. Clotted cream or butter pairs beautifully, giving a rich texture and flavor to each bite. If you like a little sweetness, consider adding a drizzle of honey or your favorite fruit preserves. Fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, can also make a delightful accompaniment, adding a pop of color and freshness to your plate. For a special touch during breakfast or tea time, try pairing your scones with a warm cup of herbal tea or your favorite beverage. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even create a mini breakfast sandwich by adding sliced cheese or fresh greens between two halves of a scone. The options are endless, making these scones perfect for any occasion.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Scones Recipe
To get the best results from your air fryer scones, follow these expert tips. Firstly, ensure your butter is very cold when you mix it with the dry ingredients. This will help in creating a flaky texture as the butter melts during cooking. Do not overmix your dough; just combine the ingredients until they’re moistened. Overmixing can lead to dense scones, which isn’t the goal. Make sure you preheat your air fryer for even cooking, as this step helps in achieving a more consistent golden brown color. For those who love experimenting, don’t hesitate to try different add-ins, such as nuts or spices, to create unique flavor combinations. Finally, check on your scones periodically while cooking. Air fryers can vary in temperature, and this will help you avoid overcooking.
How to Store Air Fryer Scones Recipe
To keep your air fryer scones fresh, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack after baking. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. To freeze, individually wrap each scone in plastic wrap and then place them in a resealable freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply pop them into the air fryer for a few minutes to warm them up, and they will taste just like freshly baked.
Variations of Air Fryer Scones Recipe
This air fryer scones recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to get creative with flavors. For sweet scones, consider adding lemon zest or almond extract for a refreshing touch. You can also mix in various fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or cranberries based on your preference. If you enjoy savory tastes, add some grated cheese, herbs, or jalapeño to the dough for an exciting twist. Herbed scones work beautifully with soups and salads and can be customized based on your favorite herbs. You could even make a mixture of sweet and savory—by adding a handful of chocolate chips and some chopped nuts, you create a delightful contrast that pleases everyone. The possibilities are nearly endless, so don’t hesitate to play around with different ingredients until you find your ideal scone flavor.
FAQ about Air Fryer Scones Recipe
When making air fryer scones, you might have a few questions. One common inquiry is whether you can substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. While you can, the texture and taste will differ. Whole wheat flour may lead to denser scones, so adjust the liquid content as necessary to maintain moisture. Another frequent question is how to ensure the scones stay light and fluffy. The answer lies in not overworking the dough and using cold ingredients, particularly cold butter, for that flaky result. Additionally, you might wonder how many scones this recipe will yield. Typically, it makes about 8 scones, depending on the size you cut them. Store leftovers properly to keep them fresh, and remember, reheating them in the air fryer can help restore their original texture. Lastly, using a lower temperature can be beneficial when cooking delicate flavors to prevent the outside from browning too quickly.
Air Fryer Scones
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed Cold butter is key for a flaky texture.
- 1/2 cup milk or a dairy-free alternative
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or dried fruit Optional for flavor variation.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. If you’re adding chocolate chips or dried fruit, fold them in at this stage.
- Flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it. Gently knead the dough a couple of times until it holds together.
- Pat the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter for uniform shapes.
Cooking
- Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
- Arrange the scones in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece for air circulation.
- Air fry the scones for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Check them at the 8-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
- Once done, remove them carefully and let them cool on a wire rack.
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