Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings together sweet and savory flavors, you’ve come to the right place! These Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones are not only mouthwatering but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for busy mornings or cozy family gatherings, these scones combine the crunch of bacon with melty cheddar and tart apples. The aroma that fills your kitchen while they cook is absolutely irresistible!

Whether you’re enjoying them as part of a leisurely weekend breakfast or serving them at an afternoon tea, these scones are sure to impress. They’re fluffy, flavorful, and so fun to whip up – let’s dive into making these delicious bites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: These scones come together quickly with simple steps that anyone can follow.
• Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet apple and savory bacon combo!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough in advance and pop them in the air fryer when you need them.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as an afternoon snack with tea.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these scrumptious Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather our essentials!

For the Scone Mixture

• 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 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 3 strips bacon (cooked and diced)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon water (cold)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your scones by trying out different ingredients. Here are some tasty ideas:

• Change up the cheese: Swap cheddar for gouda or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Add some herbs: Mix in fresh herbs like chives or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
• Switch the fruit: Use pears or even cranberries instead of apples for a different taste.
• Make it vegetarian: Leave out the bacon entirely and add nuts for crunch instead.

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 until it’s light and fluffy. This step is important because it helps to incorporate air into your mixture, making the scones tender and light.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that your leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is key for achieving those perfect fluffy scones.

Step 3: Bring It All Together

Slowly fold your dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Be gentle here; you don’t want to overwork the dough! Then add in your buttermilk along with those lovely diced apples, shredded cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon bits. This combination creates layers of flavor that make each bite exciting.

Step 4: Prepare Your Scone Pan

Spray your scone pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Once that’s done, spoon your scone batter evenly into each section of the pan. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and cold water. Brush this mixture over the tops of your scones for a beautiful golden finish.

Step 5: Air Fry Until Golden Brown

Carefully set your scone pan into the air fryer. Cook at 320 degrees F for about 12 to 15 minutes until they turn golden brown on top. The air fryer gives these scones a lovely crisp outside while keeping them soft on the inside.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once they’re done cooking, plate those gorgeous scones up! They’re best enjoyed warm right out of the air fryer. Share them with family or keep them all to yourself – I won’t tell!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

Baking scones can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll be on your way to making the perfect batch!

• Use cold butter: Starting with cold butter helps create a flaky texture in your scones. If the butter is too warm, it will melt too quickly, leading to dense scones.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined ensures that your scones remain light and tender. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in tough scones.

• Chill the dough: If time allows, refrigerate the dough for about 15 minutes before air frying. This helps the flavors meld and enhances the overall texture of your scones.

• Experiment with cheeses: While cheddar adds a wonderful sharpness, feel free to mix in other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for an extra flavor kick.

• Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer: Different air fryer models may have varying cooking times. Check on your scones a minute or two early to avoid overcooking.

How to Serve Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

These scones are not just tasty; they’re also visually appealing! Present them beautifully to impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness that complements the savory elements of the scone.
• Honey drizzle: A light drizzle of honey gives a sweet contrast to the savory flavors, enhancing each bite while adding a sticky sweetness that everyone will love.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the scones and adds natural sweetness. It’s colorful and nutritious!
• Yogurt parfait: Layer some yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a delightful side. The creaminess of yogurt pairs wonderfully with the savory scone while offering additional protein.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs make for a hearty breakfast option alongside your scones. They’re simple to prepare and add extra protein to start your day right.
• Mixed greens salad: A light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the scone, making for a well-rounded meal.

Enjoy creating these delicious Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones and share them with those you love! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making your mornings or snack times a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the scones to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator where they will last about a week.

Freezing

• Individually wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped scones in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
• Heat the scones for about 5-8 minutes until warmed through.
• If reheating from the fridge, they may only need 3-5 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, read on!

Can I make Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones without bacon?

Absolutely! You can replace bacon with sautéed vegetables like onions or bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian option.

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

Make sure not to overmix your dough after adding the flour. Gentle folding is key to achieving that light and fluffy texture!

What can I pair with my Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones?

These scones are delightful on their own but pair perfectly with a warm cup of tea or coffee. You could also enjoy them alongside fresh fruit or a light salad.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones! With their delightful blend of sweet apples and savory cheese, they truly are a special treat. Whether it’s breakfast or an afternoon snack, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Enjoy baking them, and don’t forget to share them with loved ones—after all, good food is meant to be shared!