Air Fryer Cheese Scones
Introduction
Welcome to the wonderful world of air fryer cooking! In this recipe, we’ll be exploring the deliciousness of cheese scones made in an air fryer. These scones are light, fluffy, and packed with cheesy goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for you. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make these delectable air fryer cheese scones!
Ingredients
To make these mouthwatering cheese scones, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg
– Optional: melted butter for brushing
Steps
Now that we have gathered all the ingredients, let’s get started with the step-by-step process of making these delightful cheese scones:
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Next, add the shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl and mix it into the flour-butter mixture. Make a well in the center of the mixture.
Step 2: Mixing the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until well combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the well you made in the dry mixture.
Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gently mix the wet and dry ingredients together until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough scones.
Step 3: Shaping the Scones
Dust a clean surface with flour and transfer the dough onto it. Pat the dough into a circle or rectangle, about 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife or a biscuit cutter to cut out scones from the dough. Place the scones on a parchment-lined tray.
Step 4: Air Frying the Scones
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Once preheated, carefully place the scones in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each scone for even cooking.
Set the timer for 12-15 minutes and let the scones cook until they are golden brown on the outside and cooked through in the center. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Once the scones are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. If desired, brush the tops of the scones with melted butter for a glossy finish.
These delicious air fryer cheese scones are best enjoyed warm. Serve them with a side of butter or your favorite jam. They make a perfect snack, breakfast, or accompaniment to a cozy afternoon tea.
Variations
Feel free to get creative with your air fryer cheese scones by adding some extra ingredients:
– Crumbled cooked bacon for a savory twist
– Diced jalapenos for a spicy kick
– Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor
– Swap the cheddar cheese for your favorite cheese variety
Tips
Follow these tips to ensure your air fryer cheese scones turn out perfectly every time:
– Make sure your butter is cold when incorporating it into the dry ingredients. This will help create a flaky texture in the scones.
– Avoid overmixing the dough to prevent dense scones. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
– Adjust the cooking time based on your air fryer model and the size of your scones. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
– For a sweeter version, you can add a tablespoon of sugar to the dry ingredients.
Conclusion
Air fryer cheese scones are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed any time of the day. With their light and fluffy texture, along with the cheesy goodness, they are sure to please everyone’s taste buds. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or guests, these scones are a guaranteed hit. So, fire up your air fryer and give this recipe a try. Happy baking!
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze the scone dough?
A: Yes, you can freeze the scone dough. After shaping the scones, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the scones to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen scones in the air fryer and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: Can I reheat the scones?
A: Absolutely! To reheat the scones, place them in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through. You can also toast them in a toaster oven or regular oven if you prefer.
Q: How long do the scones stay fresh?
A: These scones are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are baked. However, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To prolong their freshness, you can also freeze the scones and thaw them as needed.
