Air Fryer Cheese Scones

Introduction

Air Fryer Cheese Scones are golden, fluffy, and packed with rich cheesy flavor. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, afternoon tea, or as a savory snack. Using an air fryer makes the baking process quicker and more energy-efficient than a conventional oven while still producing beautifully risen scones with a crisp exterior and soft, tender interior.

These homemade cheese scones come together with simple pantry ingredients and can be customized with herbs, spices, or different cheeses to suit your taste.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Servings: 8 scones

Ingredients

For the Scones

• 2 cups (250g) self-rising flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
• 1 cup (100g) grated cheddar cheese
• ¾ cup (180ml) milk
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)

For Topping

• 2 tablespoons grated cheese
• 1 tablespoon milk for brushing

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Rolling pin
• Biscuit cutter
• Baking paper

Instructions

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:

• Self-rising flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Mustard powder (if using)

Mix thoroughly.

Step 2: Add Butter

Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture.

Rub the butter into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Add Cheese

Stir in the grated cheddar cheese evenly throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Add Milk

Gradually pour in the milk while mixing gently.

Bring the dough together until it forms a soft dough. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the scones tough.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Place the dough on a lightly floured surface.

Pat or roll it to approximately ¾-inch (2 cm) thickness.

Use a round cutter to cut out scones.

Gather the scraps and repeat until all dough is used.

Air Frying

Step 1: Prepare Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 3 minutes.

Line the basket with perforated baking paper if needed.

Step 2: Arrange Scones

Place the scones in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one for expansion.

Step 3: Add Topping

Brush the tops lightly with milk.

Sprinkle extra grated cheese over each scone.

Step 4: Cook

Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes.

The scones should be:

• Golden brown
• Well-risen
• Crispy on top

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with:

• Butter
• Cream cheese
• Tomato soup
• Scrambled eggs
• Fresh salad
• Smoked salmon

Tips for Success

1. Use cold butter for flaky scones.
2. Do not overwork the dough.
3. Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
4. Leave space between scones in the air fryer basket.
5. Check a few minutes early, as air fryer models vary.

Variations

Herb Cheese Scones

Add:

• 1 tablespoon chopped chives
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Spicy Cheese Scones

Add:

• ½ teaspoon chili flakes
• 1 finely chopped jalapeño

Garlic Cheese Scones

Add:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Extra Parmesan cheese

Storage

Store cooled scones in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze for up to 2 months.

Thaw and reheat in the air fryer at 160°C (320°F) for 3–4 minutes.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Scone)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 320mg