Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to brighten your mornings or add a special touch to your afternoon tea, these Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones are just what you need! There’s something magical about the combination of sweet apples, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon that makes these scones truly irresistible. This recipe is not only easy to whip up but perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These scones come together in just about 35 minutes, making them perfect for those busy mornings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and savory flavors, making breakfast a hit!
• Versatile Enjoyment: Whether served warm with butter or as an afternoon snack, they are sure to please.
• Air Fryer Magic: Cooking in the air fryer gives these scones a lovely golden crust while keeping them tender inside.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make these scrumptious scones. They are easy to find and come together beautifully for a delicious treat!

• 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 apples (diced)
• 1 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 3 strips bacon (cooked and diced)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon water (cold)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your flavor combinations.

• Swap the cheese: Try using different types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch and extra depth to the scone’s texture.
• Fruit alternative: Substitute pears or even dried cranberries for a different fruity twist.
• Herb infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch that elevates the savory notes.

How to Make Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, start by creaming the butter and sugar together until it’s light and fluffy. This step is important because it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your scones that nice rise.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. This ensures that your leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour so your scones will bake consistently.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Slowly fold the dry mixture into the creamed butter mixture. Once combined, pour in the buttermilk. Gently fold this in until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough scones!

Step 4: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Now it’s time to fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced apples, and cooked bacon. Mixing these ingredients brings together all those delicious flavors that make these scones so special.

Step 5: Prepare for Air Frying

Spray your scone pan with cooking spray before adding in the batter. In a small bowl, whisk together one egg with cold water. Brush this mixture over the tops of your scones for that beautiful golden finish.

Step 6: Air Fry Your Scones

Place the filled scone pan into your air fryer set at 320 degrees F. Cook for about 12 to 15 minutes until they are golden brown on top. The air fryer gives them that perfect crispiness while keeping them soft inside.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done, carefully remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Plate these gorgeous scones up and enjoy them warm—maybe with a drizzle of honey or a smear of butter if you’re feeling indulgent!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

Making scones can be a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use cold butter: Starting with cold butter helps create a flaky texture in your scones. When the butter melts during cooking, it leaves behind pockets of air that make your scones light and airy.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough scones. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined to keep them tender and fluffy.

• Let the dough rest: Allowing your scone dough to rest for about 10 minutes before cooking helps it hydrate fully. This can improve texture and flavor!

• Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer: Every air fryer is different! Keep an eye on your scones as they cook, especially if it’s your first time making them in your specific model.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding nuts, dried fruits, or different cheeses. This will make each batch uniquely delicious!

How to Serve Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

Serving these delightful scones can turn a simple breakfast into something special! Here are some creative ideas to present your Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley adds a vibrant touch and enhances the savory flavor.
• Honey or maple syrup: Drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup over the warm scones for a sweet contrast to their savory notes.
• Cheese sprinkle: Top with extra shredded cheddar right before serving for an appealing presentation and an extra cheesy flavor boost.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A bowl of fresh fruit salad brings brightness and freshness that balances out the richness of the scones.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer some yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy and crunchy side that complements the flavors of your scones.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs serve as a protein-packed side dish that pairs nicely with the savory elements of the scone.
• Mixed greens salad: A light salad drizzled with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty taste of the scone.

Now that you’re equipped with these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to whip up a batch of Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, ensuring you have a delicious treat ready to go for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you want them to last longer, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow scones to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to an airtight freezer bag or container.
• Frozen scones can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply place the scone in the air fryer at 300 degrees F for about 5 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones:

Can I use different types of cheese in Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones?

Absolutely! While cheddar is delicious, you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.

How do I ensure my Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones turn out fluffy?

Make sure not to overmix your dough after adding the wet ingredients. Gently fold everything together just until combined for light and fluffy scones.

Can I add other fruits to my Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like pears or cranberries for added sweetness and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones! They’re not just tasty but also easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy mornings or cozy afternoons. Enjoy the comforting flavors of apples and cheese, and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family. Happy baking!