Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones Recipe

Introduction

These Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones combine sweet apples, sharp cheddar, and smoky bacon for a delightful twist on a classic treat. Quick to make and perfectly golden with a tender crumb, they’re ideal for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients

• 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 cold water

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until smooth and well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt.
2. Step 2: Slowly fold the dry flour mixture into the creamed butter and sugar. Then add the buttermilk, folding gently to combine. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced apples, and cooked diced bacon evenly throughout the batter.
3. Step 3: Lightly spray your scone pan with cooking spray. Transfer the scone batter into the pan, spreading it evenly. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and cold water, then brush this egg wash over the top of the scones to create a golden finish.
4. Step 4: Place the scone pan into the air fryer and cook at 320°F (160°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the scones are puffed and golden brown.
5. Step 5: Remove the scones from the air fryer. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweet-tart flavor that complements the cheddar and bacon.
• Try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warming spice note.
• Substitute the bacon with cooked sausage or omit it for a vegetarian version.
• Make sure to cut the butter cold and work quickly to keep the scones flaky and tender.

Storage

Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the scones wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 1 month. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer at low temperature until warmed through to restore freshness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these scones without an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake these scones in a conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through.

What type of cheddar cheese works best?

A sharp or extra-sharp cheddar adds the best flavor contrast, but you can use mild cheddar if preferred for a less intense taste.

Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 65 reviews

These Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones are a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors baked to perfection using an air fryer. Featuring tender scones loaded with diced apples, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, these scones offer a quick and delicious breakfast or snack option with a golden crust and moist interior.

• Author: Naya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 scones 1x
• Category: Breakfast, Snack, Baked Goods
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Wet Ingredients

• 1 stick butter (113g)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 cup buttermilk (240ml)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon cold water

Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (360g)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Mix-ins

• 1 cup diced apples (about 120g)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (about 170g)
• 3 strips bacon, cooked and diced

Instructions

1. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, ensuring an evenly sweet base for the scones.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
3. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the butter and sugar mixture. Pour in the buttermilk and gently fold the mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
4. Add Mix-ins: Fold in the diced apples, shredded cheddar cheese, and cooked diced bacon until they are evenly dispersed throughout the dough.
5. Prepare Scone Pan: Lightly spray your scone pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spoon the batter evenly into the pan, shaping it as needed.
6. Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk the large egg with cold water. Brush this egg wash over the top of the scones to help them develop a golden, glossy crust during cooking.
7. Air Fry the Scones: Place the scone pan into the air fryer basket. Cook at 320°F (160°C) for 12 to 15 minutes using the air fryer setting, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the scones from the air fryer. Allow them to cool slightly before plating. Serve warm and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet apples, sharp cheddar, and smoky bacon in every bite.

Notes

• Make sure to use cold butter for the best texture when creaming.
• The apples can be substituted with pears or dried cranberries for a different flavor.
• Adjust cooking time depending on your air fryer model; check for doneness at 12 minutes.
• Use a non-stick spray or line your scone pan to prevent sticking.
• For crispier bacon, cook bacon strips until extra crispy before adding.

Keywords: apple scones, cheddar scones, bacon scones, air fryer scones, breakfast scones, savory scones