Air Fryer Cheese Scones

These Air Fryer Cheese Scones are buttery, light, and fluffy with a crisp golden top and plenty of melted cheddar cheese. They’re quick to prepare and perfect for breakfast, brunch, afternoon tea, or as a savory snack.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250 g) self-rising flour
• ½ tsp baking powder (optional, for extra lift)
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• ¼ cup (60 g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 cup (100 g) grated sharp cheddar cheese
• ⅔ cup (160 ml) whole milk
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)

For the Topping

• 1 tbsp milk
• 2 tbsp grated cheddar cheese
• ½ tsp dried parsley or chives (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 330°F (165°C) for 3 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour, baking powder (if using), salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the cold butter into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese.
5. Add the milk and Dijon mustard, then mix gently until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
6. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick round.
7. Cut out 6–8 scones with a biscuit cutter, or slice the dough into wedges.
8. Brush the tops with milk and sprinkle with the extra grated cheese and herbs.
9. Place the scones in the air fryer basket lined with perforated parchment paper, leaving space between each one.
10. Air fry at 330°F (165°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and cooked through.
11. Cool for 5 minutes before serving warm.

Tips

• Keep the butter cold for soft, flaky scones.
• Avoid overworking the dough to keep the scones tender.
• Cook in batches if necessary to allow room for the scones to rise.
• Try adding chopped chives, cooked bacon, or finely diced jalapeños for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Butter
• Cream cheese
• Tomato soup
• Scrambled eggs
• Ham
• Mixed green salad

Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 3–4 minutes until warmed through.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 25–27 minutes
Servings: 6–8 scones
Calories: Approximately 220 calories per scone