If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweet and savory, then you must try these Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones! They are truly a family favorite, ideal for busy mornings or cozy afternoons with friends. The combination of tangy apples, rich cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up in your air fryer, making them a fantastic option for any occasion!
These scones are not only delicious but also perfect for sharing at brunches or enjoying with a warm cup of tea. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or just treating yourself, these scones will surely impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make: Whip these scones up in just 35 minutes from start to finish!
- Family-friendly flavors: The blend of apple and cheddar with a hint of bacon makes these scones appealing to all ages.
- Perfect for any time: Enjoy them at breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as a light dessert.
- Air fryer magic: Get that golden-brown crust without the need for excess oil—crispy and healthier!
- Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it for a quick bake whenever cravings hit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create these delightful scones! You probably have most of these in your pantry already:
For the Scone Base
- 1 stick butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
For Flavor and Texture
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup apples (diced)
- 1 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 3 strips bacon (cooked and diced)
For Topping
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water (cold)
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it based on your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:
- Go vegetarian: Omit the bacon entirely and add in some chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
- Add herbs: Incorporate fresh thyme or rosemary into the dough for an aromatic twist.
- Try different cheeses: Use feta cheese or pepper jack instead of cheddar for unique flavor profiles.
- Sweeten it up: Swap out some apples for dried cranberries or raisins to add a touch of sweetness.
How to Make Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones
Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, helping your scones achieve that light and fluffy texture we all love. Mix well until it’s smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly fold this dry mixture into your wet mixture from Step 1. This method ensures you don’t overmix the dough, which could lead to dense scones.
Step 3: Add Buttermilk and Mix-Ins
Now it’s time to add in the buttermilk. Gently fold it into your batter until combined. Then carefully mix in the cheddar cheese, diced apples, and cooked, diced bacon. These ingredients add moisture and flavor that make each bite irresistible!
Step 4: Prepare for Air Frying
Spray your scone pan with cooking spray. Then evenly distribute the scone batter into the pan. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water, then brush this mixture over the tops of your scones. This gives them that beautiful golden color when cooked!
Step 5: Air Fry Them
Place the scone pan into your air fryer set at 320°F (160°C). Cook them for about 12 to 15 minutes until they’re golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them; every air fryer can be slightly different!
Step 6: Serve Warm
Once done, carefully remove the pan from the air fryer. Plate your warm scones, serve with butter or jam if desired, and enjoy this tasty treat fresh out of the air fryer!
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones
Making scones is easy, but a few simple tips can take your baking to the next level!
Use Cold Butter: Chilling your butter before mixing helps create flaky layers in the scones. This results in a tender texture that’s irresistibly light.
Don’t Overmix: Gently folding the ingredients together ensures your scones remain fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense scones, which isn’t what we want!
Adjust Cooking Time: Every air fryer is different, so keep an eye on your scones as they cook. If you notice they’re browning too quickly, lower the temperature slightly or check them a minute or two earlier.
Let Them Cool Slightly: Allow the scones to cool for a few minutes after cooking. This helps set their structure and makes them easier to handle when serving.
Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is delicious, don’t hesitate to try other cheeses like Monterey Jack or gouda for a unique flavor twist that complements the apples beautifully.
How to Serve Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones
These delightful scones are not just tasty; they also present beautifully! Here are some ideas for showcasing them at your next meal or gathering.
Garnishes
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped chives or parsley add a pop of color and freshness that brightens up your plate.
- Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey enhances the sweetness of the apples and creates a lovely contrast with the savory cheese.
Side Dishes
- Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the scones and adds refreshing crunch.
- Fruit Salad: A vibrant bowl of seasonal fruits complements the flavors in the scones while providing a sweet and juicy contrast.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side that pairs perfectly with these savory treats.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs make for a hearty breakfast alongside your scones, adding protein and creaminess to your meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make these scones ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing
- Allow the scones to cool completely before freezing.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- To reheat, simply pop them back into the air fryer at 320°F for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
- Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 15-20 seconds.
FAQs
Can I make Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones without bacon?
Absolutely! You can substitute the bacon with cooked turkey bacon or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian option. The scones will still be delicious!
How do I store Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them!
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda, which will add unique flavors to your scones.
How long do these scones take to cook in the air fryer?
These scones typically take about 12-15 minutes to cook in the air fryer at 320°F, depending on your appliance.
What’s the best way to enjoy Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones?
These scones are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with a nice cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy them fresh from the air fryer for the best taste!
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making these delightful Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones as much as I do! They’re not only simple to prepare but also bring a wonderful combination of flavors that are sure to brighten your day. Don’t hesitate to share your creations and thoughts—happy baking!
Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Scones
Indulge in the delightful combination of sweet apples and rich cheddar cheese with these easy-to-make Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Scones. Perfect for busy mornings or cozy afternoons, these scones offer a perfect balance of flavors that everyone will love. The air fryer gives them a crispy golden crust while keeping them tender and fluffy inside. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up these tasty treats for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Makes about 8 scones 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 stick butter (cold)
- 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 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 strips cooked turkey bacon (diced)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon cold water
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, cream together cold butter and sugar until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually fold into the creamed mixture.
- Gently mix in buttermilk, diced apples, shredded cheddar cheese, and turkey bacon until combined.
- Spray a scone pan with cooking spray and evenly distribute the batter into it.
- Whisk the egg with cold water and brush over the tops of the scones.
- Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
