Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines savory and sweet flavors, then you’ve come to the right place! These Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones are an absolute favorite in my kitchen. They’re perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family breakfasts, or even as a snack during the day. The combination of juicy apples, rich cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love.

What I adore most about these scones is how easy they are to whip up. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you’ll have a batch ready in no time. Plus, they make your kitchen smell heavenly while baking – it’s hard not to feel cozy when that aroma fills the air!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These scones come together in just 35 minutes, making them perfect for any time you need a delicious treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to adults will enjoy the mix of flavors. The delicious combo of apple and cheese is sure to please all palates!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Fresh scones whenever you want!
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these scones for breakfast, brunch, or even as a delightful dessert. They fit any occasion beautifully!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You probably have most of these in your pantry already. Here’s what you need to create these scrumptious Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones:

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your scone flavors. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the cheese: Use your favorite type of cheese like gouda or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Add spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist that pairs beautifully with the apples.
• Go veggie: Replace bacon with sautéed veggies like spinach or bell peppers for a vegetarian version that’s just as tasty.
• Mix-ins galore: Toss in nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and nutrition.

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 until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps incorporate air into your mixture, giving your scones that delightful light texture.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of the leavening agent throughout your dough, which is essential for achieving well-risen scones.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Slowly fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined; then add in the buttermilk. Gently folding ensures we maintain all that lovely air we created earlier – we don’t want dense scones!

Step 4: Add Apples, Cheese, and Bacon

Now comes the fun part! Fold in the cheddar cheese, diced apples, and bacon until well mixed. The combination of flavors here is what makes these Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones so special.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Spray your scone pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spoon in your batter generously into each section of the pan. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and cold water; then brush this mixture over each scone before baking.

Step 6: Air Fry Your Scones

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 – you’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown on top!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Finally, plate those beautiful scones up! They are best served warm right out of the air fryer. Enjoy them fresh with a little butter or on their own; either way, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

Making scones can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Use cold butter: Cold butter helps create flaky layers in your scones. When it melts during baking, it releases steam that gives your scones that perfect rise and texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Gently folding the ingredients keeps the scones tender. Overmixing can lead to tough scones – we want them light and fluffy!
• Chill the dough before air frying: If time allows, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before cooking helps to solidify the butter and improve texture.
• Experiment with cheese: While cheddar is delicious, feel free to switch it up! A sharp white cheddar or creamy gouda can add unique flavors to your scones.
• Check for doneness: Since air fryers can vary in temperature, check your scones a couple of minutes before the suggested cooking time. They should be golden brown on top.

How to Serve Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

These delightful scones are not only easy to make but also a treat for the eyes! Presenting them well will make your breakfast or afternoon tea even more enjoyable.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped chives or parsley can add a vibrant touch and enhance the savory notes of the cheese and bacon.
• Honey drizzle: A light drizzle of honey adds sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the savory flavors of the scone.
• Apple slices: Thinly sliced fresh apples arranged alongside your scones can enhance presentation while echoing the apple flavor in each bite.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits provides freshness and complements the rich flavors of the scones perfectly.
• Yogurt parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a creamy, crunchy contrast to the warm scones, making for a balanced meal.
• Green salad: A light mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette brings a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the richness of cheddar and bacon.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea such as chamomile or mint rounds out this breakfast or snack beautifully, providing warmth and soothing flavors.

Enjoy your Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones in style! Whether you’re treating yourself or serving friends, these tips will help elevate every bite. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful breakfast or snack anytime! Here’s how you can store them efficiently:

Storing Leftovers

• Let the scones cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap each cooled scone individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped scones in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label and date your containers!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat scones in the air fryer at 300 degrees F for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them on low power for about 30 seconds, but this may affect their texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delightful scones.

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

Absolutely! You can omit the bacon or substitute it with cooked turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative if you prefer. The flavor will still be delicious!

What if I don’t have buttermilk for my Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones?

No worries! You can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it in your recipe.

How do I know when my Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones are done?

The scones should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when they are fully cooked.

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

Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding nuts, different types of cheese, or spices like cinnamon for extra flavor.

What’s the best way to serve Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones?

These scones are delicious on their own, but you can enhance them with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a sweet touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones! They’re not just tasty; they’re a wonderful way to bring warmth and comfort into your kitchen. Whether enjoyed fresh from the air fryer or saved for later, I truly believe you’ll love every bite. Happy baking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me!