Air Fryer Cheese Scones Recipe
⏱️ Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 10–12 mins (per batch)
Servings: 6–8 scones
📝 Ingredients:
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225g (1¾ cups) self-raising flour
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½ tsp baking powder
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Pinch of salt
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50g (3½ tbsp) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
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100g (1 cup) mature cheddar cheese, grated
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1 tsp mustard powder or a pinch of cayenne (optional)
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1 egg, beaten
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100ml (⅓–½ cup) milk, plus extra for brushing
🥣 Instructions:
1. Preheat Air Fryer:
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Set your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for a few minutes while you prepare the dough.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
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In a mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, salt, and mustard powder or cayenne if using.
3. Rub in Butter:
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Add the cold cubed butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until it looks like breadcrumbs.
4. Add Cheese:
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Stir in most of the grated cheese, saving a little for topping.
5. Add Wet Ingredients:
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Beat the egg with milk, then pour most of it into the dry mix (reserve 1 tbsp for brushing tops).
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Mix gently to form a soft dough. If too dry, add a splash more milk.
6. Shape the Scones:
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Lightly flour your surface and roll or press the dough to about 2–3 cm (1 inch) thick.
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Use a round cutter or shape by hand to cut 6–8 scones.
7. Prepare for Air Frying:
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Line your air fryer basket or tray with parchment paper (with holes poked for airflow) or use a silicone liner.
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Place scones with space between them.
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Brush the tops with the reserved egg/milk mix and sprinkle remaining cheese.
8. Air Fry:
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Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
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You may need to do this in batches depending on air fryer size.
9. Cool Slightly & Serve:
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Let scones cool for a few minutes on a wire rack.
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Serve warm with butter, cream cheese, or even chutney for a savory twist.
🔁 Variations:
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Add chopped chives, spring onions, or sun-dried tomatoes to the dough.
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Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar + parmesan for extra depth.
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Make mini scones for party snacks—adjust cooking time (7–8 mins).
🧊 Storage:
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Store cooled scones in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
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Reheat in the air fryer at 160°C (320°F) for 2–3 minutes.