Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of apples with the savory goodness of cheese and bacon, then you’re in for a treat with these Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones! I absolutely love how easy they are to whip up, making them perfect for busy mornings or cozy family gatherings. These scones are not only delicious but also versatile enough to enjoy at breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll quickly become a favorite!

Every bite of these Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones is packed with flavor and warmth. They are the kind of recipe that brings everyone together, whether it’s a lazy weekend brunch or a special occasion. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, so you can have warm scones ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Delight: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of sweet apples and savory cheddar.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week!
• Air Fryer Magic: Using an air fryer gives these scones a wonderfully flaky texture without the need for turning on the oven.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making these Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones, you’ll find that the ingredients are simple, wholesome, and likely already in your pantry! Here’s what you need:

For the Scones

• 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 super flexible, allowing you to get creative based on what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Change Up the Cheese: Try using pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor twist.
• Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch.
• Go Sweet: Swap out bacon for some chopped dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet version!
• Herb Infusion: Add some fresh herbs like chives or thyme to enhance the savory profile.

How to Make Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

Begin by creaming together the butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl. This step is crucial because it helps to incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in light and fluffy scones. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for best results!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. Combining these ingredients separately ensures even distribution when mixed with the wet ingredients later on.

Step 3: Mix It All Together

Slowly fold your dry mixture into the wet one until just combined. Then add in the buttermilk along with the diced apples, shredded cheddar cheese, and cooked bacon. Mixing gently ensures that everything is well incorporated without overworking the dough.

Step 4: Prepare Your Scone Pan

Spray your scone pan with cooking spray before adding your batter. This helps prevent sticking and makes clean-up easier! Once filled, brush your scone batter with an egg wash made from whisking together an egg with cold water; this will give your scones that beautiful golden color.

Step 5: Air Fry Those 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; they’ll be done when they’re lightly golden on top. Once finished, let them cool slightly before serving.

Plate up those delicious Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones, serve them warm, and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

Baking can be an adventure, and with these pro tips, your Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones will turn out perfectly every time!

• Use cold butter: Chilled butter creates a flakier texture in your scones. It helps to prevent the butter from melting too quickly during baking, which contributes to that lovely, tender crumb.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Gently folding the ingredients helps maintain the scone’s light texture. Overmixing can lead to dense scones, so mix just until combined.
• Experiment with cheese types: While cheddar adds a wonderful flavor, don’t hesitate to try different cheeses like Gruyère or pepper jack for a unique twist. This can personalize your scone experience!
• Add spices for extra flavor: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can complement the apples beautifully. Spices elevate the flavor profile and add warmth to these delightful treats.
• Check for doneness: Since air fryers can vary in temperature, keep an eye on your scones toward the end of cooking time. They should be golden brown on top – if they need more time, don’t hesitate to add another minute or two!

How to Serve Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones

Serving these scrumptious scones is all about presentation and delicious pairings! Whether it’s for breakfast or an afternoon snack, here are some ideas to make them shine.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped chives or parsley can add a pop of color and freshness when sprinkled on top.
• Honey drizzle: A light drizzle of honey adds a touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory elements.
• Apple slices: A few thin apple slices alongside the scones not only look great but also enhance the apple flavor.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt parfait: A creamy yogurt parfait layered with granola and fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the savory scones.
• Mixed greens salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the scones and adds freshness.
• Fruit salad: A vibrant fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits can brighten up your plate and provide a sweet counterpoint.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs make for a hearty breakfast when served alongside these delightful scones.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making your mornings or snack times easier and more delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they will keep fresh for up to a week.

Freezing

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

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, simply pop the scones in the air fryer at 320 degrees F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• If reheating from room temperature, air fry for 3-5 minutes until they’re just warm.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! You can substitute the bacon with crispy cooked turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version. The cheese and apples will still give you delightful flavors!

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

Make sure not to overmix the dough after adding the wet ingredients. Gently folding them together helps retain air, giving your scones that light and fluffy texture.

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

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Air Fryer Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones as much as I do! They’re not only easy to prepare but also a wonderful treat that brings comfort to any breakfast or snack time. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and I’m sure your loved ones will appreciate this tasty addition. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your experience with me!