Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines sweet and savory flavors, you’ve come to the right place! These Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones are a fantastic way to brighten up your morning or enjoy a cozy afternoon snack. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese, crisp bacon, and fresh apples creates a wonderful balance that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, they’re incredibly quick to whip up in your air fryer, making them perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s simple enough for novice bakers yet impressively delicious. Whether you’re serving them at brunch or enjoying them with a cup of tea, these scones are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can have these scones ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors of apple, cheese, and bacon.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough in advance and pop them in the air fryer whenever you’re ready.
• Versatile Treat: Great as breakfast or dessert, these scones fit perfectly into any meal plan.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of sweet apples and savory cheese creates an irresistible taste that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these scones is super simple with wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

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! Here are some fun ideas to customize your Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones:

• Swap the cheese: Try using pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a wonderful crunch to your scones.
• Use different fruits: Diced pears or even cranberries can provide a unique twist on this classic recipe.
• Make it herbaceous: Adding chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate the flavor even more.

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 essential because it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your scones that lovely light texture we all love!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly fold this dry mixture into your wet ingredients from Step 1. It’s important not to overmix at this stage; you want just enough moisture without overworking the dough.

Step 3: Add Buttermilk and Mix-ins

Gently incorporate the buttermilk into your batter. Then fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced apples, and cooked bacon. Mixing these ingredients well ensures every bite has that perfect blend of flavors.

Step 4: Prepare for Air Frying

Spray your scone pan with cooking spray so they don’t stick. Then spoon the batter into each section of the pan. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and cold water; brush this mixture over the top of each scone for that golden finish.

Step 5: Air Fry Your Scones

Set your scone pan into the air fryer at 320 degrees F for about 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook; you’ll want them golden brown on top!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done, carefully remove your scones from the air fryer. Plate them up and serve warm—trust me; they won’t last long! Enjoy every crumb of these delightful Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

Making these delightful scones is a breeze if you follow a few simple tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use cold butter: Chilled butter creates a flakier texture in your scones. It prevents the fat from melting too quickly, allowing the scones to rise beautifully as they bake.
• Don’t overmix: Mixing too much can lead to tough scones. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined for that light and tender crumb we all love.
• Adjust the baking time for your air fryer: Every air fryer is different! Keep an eye on your scones during cooking, as some models may cook faster or slower than others.
• Experiment with cheese varieties: While cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix it up! Try other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist that complements the apples and bacon.
• Let them cool slightly before serving: Allowing the scones to rest for about 5 minutes after cooking enhances their flavor and makes them easier to handle.

How to Serve Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

These scrumptious scones can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for breakfast gatherings or afternoon tea. Here are some ideas to present this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkling fresh chives or parsley on top adds a burst of color and enhances the savory flavors of the scone.
• Apple slices: A few thin slices of apple on the side not only look pretty but also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors in the scones.

Side Dishes

• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the scones. Toss in some nuts and dried fruits for added texture and flavor!
• Yogurt parfait: Serve with a yogurt parfait layered with fresh fruits and granola for a delightful contrast that brings creaminess and crunch.
• Fruit preserves: A small dish of fruit preserves or apple butter can add sweetness, making it fun to spread on warm scones.
• Herbal tea or coffee: Pairing these scones with a hot cup of herbal tea or coffee provides a comforting experience perfect for any time of day.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones will be a hit at any table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them fresh throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the scones to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen scones to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat frozen scones in the air fryer at 300°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• You can also microwave them on low power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, but this may affect their texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making or enjoying these delightful scones.

Can I use other cheeses besides cheddar in my Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

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

Make sure not to overwork the dough when mixing. Gently fold the ingredients together just until combined for light and fluffy scones!

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

Yes! You can substitute the bacon with crispy fried shallots or simply omit it altogether for a vegetarian version.

What type of apples is best for making Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones?

Sweet-tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully as they add great flavor and hold their shape during baking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones as much as I do! They’re a wonderful treat that combines savory flavors with a touch of sweetness, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them warm for breakfast or save them for an afternoon snack, they’re sure to impress. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!