Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to brighten your mornings or add a touch of warmth to your afternoons, these Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones are just the recipe you need. The combination of sweet apples, savory cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Plus, they are quick and easy to make, making them perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

These scones are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. Whether you’re whipping them up for brunch with friends or enjoying a quiet moment with tea, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These scones come together in under 35 minutes, so you can satisfy your cravings without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: With their appealing flavors, even picky eaters will love these scones. They make for a great breakfast option that everyone can enjoy!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just pop them in the air fryer when you’re ready to bake!
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of sweet apples and savory cheese creates a unique taste that’s perfect for any time of day.
• Air Fryer Magic: Cooking in an air fryer gives these scones a delightful crispiness while keeping them moist inside—what’s not to love?

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones is easy with these simple, wholesome ingredients. Gather everything you need, and let’s get baking!

• 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 also flexible! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add More Herbs: Enhance the flavor by incorporating fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough.
• Change the Cheese: Try using different cheeses such as gouda or pepper jack for a fun twist on flavor.
• Use Different Fruits: Swap out apples for pears or even cranberries for a seasonal variation that’s equally delicious.
• Make Them Sweet: For a sweeter version, omit the bacon and add chocolate chips or dried fruits instead.

How to Make Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together your stick of butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it helps incorporate air into the mixture, giving your scones that lovely rise they need when baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures that everything is evenly distributed before adding them to your wet ingredients.

Step 3: Merge Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly fold the dry mixture into the creamed butter and sugar mixture. This gentle folding keeps the air bubbles intact for fluffier scones. Once combined, pour in the buttermilk and continue to fold until just mixed.

Step 4: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Now it’s time to fold in your shredded cheddar cheese, diced apples, and cooked bacon. This step infuses all those amazing flavors into each bite! Make sure everything is well combined without overmixing.

Step 5: Prepare for Air Frying

Spray your scone pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then scoop your batter into the pan evenly. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and cold water—this will create a beautiful glaze when brushed over your scones.

Step 6: Air Frying Time!

Set your scone pan into the air fryer basket and cook at 320 degrees F for about 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden brown on top when done. The air frying method ensures they are perfectly cooked through while remaining beautifully moist inside.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once they’re done baking, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Plate those gorgeous scones up, serve warm, and enjoy every flaky bite! These Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones are sure to become a beloved favorite at your table.

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

Get ready to impress your family and friends with perfectly baked scones! Here are some tips to ensure your Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones turn out deliciously every time.

• Use cold butter: Cold butter creates a flaky texture in the dough, resulting in light and airy scones. Make sure not to overmix it with the sugar; a few chunks of butter will lead to that perfect flakiness!

• Don’t skip the chilling: If you have time, chilling the dough for 15-30 minutes can enhance the flavors and help maintain the shape of the scones while cooking. A little patience goes a long way in baking!

• Measure accurately: Baking is a science, so be precise with your measurements. Using too much flour or too little buttermilk can affect the texture and taste of your scones. Consider using a kitchen scale if you have one.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to personalize your scones! Try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch, or swap out the cheddar for another cheese like gouda for a different flavor profile.

• Check for doneness: Every air fryer is slightly different, so keep an eye on your scones as they cook. They should be golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

How to Serve Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

These scones are delightful on their own, but presenting them beautifully can elevate your breakfast or snack experience! Here are some fun ideas for serving these scrumptious treats.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the savory flavors.
• Honey drizzle: A light drizzle of honey enhances the sweetness of the apples and balances out the savory elements beautifully.
• Apple slices: Serve alongside thinly sliced fresh apples for a refreshing crunch that echoes the flavors within the scone.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: Creamy Greek yogurt provides a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the scone. You can even add some honey or fresh fruit on top!
• Fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits not only adds vibrant color to your plate but also provides a refreshing balance against the richness of the scone.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs make for a hearty side that pairs well with these savory scones, ensuring you have a filling meal.
• Coffee or tea: Serve these delightful scones with a warm cup of coffee or tea for an inviting breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up!

Now that you’re equipped with these serving suggestions and pro tips, it’s time to whip up some 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 make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover scones in an airtight container.
• Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep them at room temperature for 1 day if you plan to eat them right away.

Freezing

• Allow the scones to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, place the scone in the air fryer at 320 degrees F for about 5-7 minutes.
• If reheating from the refrigerator, air fry at the same temperature for around 3-5 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones.

Can I use a different type of cheese in the Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese, such as gouda or mozzarella, for a different flavor profile.

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

Make sure not to overmix your dough when adding the dry ingredients. Gently fold until just combined for best results!

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

Yes! Consider adding nuts or dried fruits like cranberries for extra texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones as much as I do! They’re not only delicious but also versatile enough to brighten up any meal of the day. Don’t hesitate to share your creations or variations – I’d love to hear how they turn out for you. Happy baking!