These Air Fryer Cheese Scones are a savory, cheesy treat that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. They have a golden, crisp exterior with a soft and fluffy interior, packed with the rich flavor of cheddar cheese. Making them in the air fryer is quick and easy, and they come out just as delicious as traditional oven-baked scones, but in a fraction of the time!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, diced
  • 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk (or cream, for extra richness)
  • 1 egg (for brushing on top, optional)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Whisk them together to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
  2. Incorporate the Butter: Add the cold, diced butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your hands, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You want small pea-sized pieces of butter throughout.
  3. Add the Cheese: Stir the grated cheddar cheese into the mixture until it’s evenly combined.
  4. Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the milk (or cream) and mix gently to form a dough. Be careful not to overwork the dough—just mix until everything is combined. If the dough feels too dry, add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it holds together.
  5. Shape the Scones: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a round shape about 1-inch thick. Use a sharp knife or a scone cutter to cut the dough into 6-8 wedges (depending on your preferred size).
  6. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 3 minutes.
  7. Air Fry the Scones: Lightly grease or line your air fryer basket with parchment paper. Arrange the scones in the basket, making sure they’re not touching each other. If you like, you can brush the tops with a beaten egg to give them a golden finish.
  8. Cook: Air fry the scones at 320°F (160°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Serve: Once done, remove the scones from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve warm, with butter or a dollop of cream if desired. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley for an extra touch.

Nutrition (Approx. Per Scone – based on 8 servings):

  • Calories: 190-230 kcal
  • Fat: 12g
    • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
    • Fiber: 1g
    • Sugar: 2g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

These Air Fryer Cheese Scones are a quick, easy, and savory baked treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The air fryer makes them perfectly crisp on the outside, with a soft, fluffy interior. With the rich flavor of cheddar and a buttery texture, they are sure to be a hit!