If you’re looking for a delightful breakfast treat that combines sweet and savory flavors, you’ll absolutely love these Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones! They’re perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or a quick pick-me-up during your busy weekday mornings. The combination of tender scone dough, juicy apples, sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re ready in no time thanks to the air fryer, making them a family favorite across the US and UK.
These scones are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends for coffee or need something quick before heading out the door, these scones will impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can whip these up without any fuss.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apples, cheddar, and bacon creates a flavor explosion that everyone loves.
- Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will enjoy these scones, making them perfect for family gatherings or brunch with friends.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh whenever you’re ready to enjoy!
- Air Fryer Magic: Cooking in an air fryer means less oil while keeping the scones perfectly crispy on the outside.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For these Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have at home. Let’s gather everything we need:
For the Scone Dough
- 1 stick butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Flavor Boost
- 1 cup apples (diced)
- 1 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 3 strips bacon (cooked and diced)
To Finish Up
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water (cold)
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some fun ideas:
- Swap the cheese: Use feta or goat cheese instead of cheddar for a tangy twist.
- Add herbs: Toss in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
- Go vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use plant-based milk to make it dairy-free.
- Fruit swap: Try adding diced pears or cranberries instead of apples for a seasonal variation.
How to Make Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. This step is key because it helps to incorporate air into your mixture, resulting in light and fluffy scones. Be sure to mix well until it becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. Mixing these dry ingredients ahead of time ensures even distribution when combined with the wet ingredients later.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Slowly fold the dry mixture into the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Then add in the buttermilk. This part is essential as it brings moisture to your dough; just be gentle when combining so you don’t overmix!
Step 4: Fold in Your Flavor Boosters
Now it’s time to fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced apples, and cooked & diced bacon. These ingredients add wonderful texture and flavor to your scones. Make sure everything is evenly distributed throughout.
Step 5: Prepare for Air Frying
Spray your scone pan with cooking spray before adding in your batter. This will help prevent sticking. In a small bowl, mix together the egg and water, then brush this mixture over the top of each scone before they go into the air fryer. This gives them that lovely golden finish!
Step 6: Air Fry Them Up!
Place your scone pan into the air fryer set at 320 degrees F for about 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook; every air fryer is slightly different! You want them golden brown on top.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, carefully plate your beautiful scones. They are best enjoyed warm straight from the air fryer! So go ahead, take a moment to savor these delightful treats—you deserve it!
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones
Making perfect scones can be a breeze with a few helpful tips!
- Use cold ingredients: Start with chilled butter and buttermilk to ensure your scones are flaky and tender.
- Don’t overmix the dough: Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough scones.
- Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer: Since air fryers can vary in temperature, keep an eye on your scones to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
- Let them cool slightly before serving: Allowing the scones to cool for a few minutes enhances their texture and flavor, making them even more enjoyable.
- Experiment with different cheeses: While cheddar is delicious, trying other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack can add exciting flavors to your scones.
How to Serve Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones
These delightful scones deserve a presentation that matches their deliciousness! Here are some creative ideas for serving.
Garnishes
- Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley adds a fresh touch that complements the savory flavors.
- Honey drizzles: A light drizzle of honey gives a sweet contrast to the savory notes, enhancing every bite.
Side Dishes
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the scones and adds freshness.
- Fruit Compote: Serving a warm fruit compote alongside provides a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory elements.
- Greek Yogurt: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang, making for an indulgent yet healthy addition.
- Herbed Cream Cheese Spread: Whip up a quick spread using cream cheese and fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor when enjoying your scones.
Make Ahead and Storage
These Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time for breakfast or snacks throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Store the cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for up to a week.
Freezing
- Allow the scones to cool completely before freezing.
- Wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- To reheat from frozen, preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) and heat the scones for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- If reheating from the refrigerator, you can also use the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until heated through.
FAQs
Can I make Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones without bacon?
Absolutely! You can substitute the bacon with cooked turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version. The scones will still be delicious with just cheese and apples.
How do I get my Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones to rise?
Make sure your baking powder is fresh, and don’t overmix the dough. Gently folding in your ingredients helps retain air, which is essential for that nice rise!
Can I use different types of cheese in Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist. Each will add its unique flavor profile.
How long do Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones take to cook?
These delightful scones typically take about 12-15 minutes in an air fryer set at 320°F (160°C) until they are golden brown.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making these scrumptious Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones as much as I do! These delightful treats are not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, they’re sure to bring a smile to your face. Happy baking!
Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Scones
If you’re searching for a delicious and unique breakfast option, these Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Scones are sure to impress! Combining the sweetness of juicy apples with the sharpness of cheddar cheese, these scones offer an irresistible flavor profile. The air fryer ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and flaky, making them perfect for brunch gatherings or a quick snack on busy mornings. Plus, they can be made ahead of time for convenience! This simple recipe yields delightful scones that everyone in the family will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 stick butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup diced apples
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 large egg (for glazing)
- 1 tablespoon cold water (for glazing)
Instructions
- Cream together butter and sugar until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually fold dry ingredients into creamed mixture; then add buttermilk gently.
- Fold in cheddar cheese and diced apples until evenly distributed.
- Brush scone tops with egg mixed with water for a golden finish.
- Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving and enjoy warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone (approx. 70g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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