What To Know
- All-purpose flour is a good starting point, but you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a heartier scone.
- Place the scones on a parchment-lined air fryer basket, leaving some space between each one.
- Fold in chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet and indulgent scone.
Craving warm, buttery scones but don’t have an oven? Don’t worry! This guide will reveal the secrets to how to bake scones in air fryer and achieve perfect results every time. Get ready to enjoy the delightful taste of homemade scones without the hassle of traditional baking.
Why Air Fry Scones?
Air fryers have become a kitchen staple for their ability to produce crispy, golden-brown foods with minimal oil. But did you know they can also bake delicious scones? Here’s why air frying is a game-changer for scone lovers:
- Faster Baking: Air fryers cook food much faster than ovens, meaning your scones will be ready in a fraction of the time.
- Crispier Texture: The circulating hot air in an air fryer creates a crispy, golden-brown exterior that’s irresistible.
- Less Mess: Air fryers are relatively easy to clean compared to ovens, so you can enjoy your scone baking experience without worrying about a big cleanup.
Choosing the Right Recipe
While many traditional scone recipes work well in an air fryer, some adjustments may be necessary. Here are a few things to consider when selecting a recipe:
- Flour Type: All-purpose flour is a good starting point, but you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a heartier scone.
- Fat Content: Butter or shortening are common fats used in scones. Use a fat that’s easily melted and will create a tender crumb.
- Sweetness: Scones can be sweet or savory. Choose a recipe that aligns with your taste preferences.
Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Scones
Before you begin, gather these essential ingredients:
- Flour: All-purpose or whole wheat flour
- Fat: Unsalted butter or shortening
- Sugar: Granulated sugar or brown sugar
- Baking Powder: For leavening
- Milk: For binding and moisture
- Optional: Flavorings like vanilla extract, dried fruit, or nuts
Mastering the Air Fryer Scone Technique
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process for making air fryer scones:
1. Prepare the Dough: Follow your chosen recipe to combine the dry ingredients, then cut in the fat until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the milk, mixing until a soft dough forms.
2. Shape the Scones: Divide the dough into equal portions and shape them into rounds or triangles. Place the scones on a parchment-lined air fryer basket, leaving some space between each one.
3. Preheat and Bake: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Bake the scones for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of a scone. If it comes out clean, your scones are done.
5. Cool and Serve: Let the scones cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite toppings, like clotted cream, jam, or butter.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Scones
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough scones. Just mix until the ingredients are combined.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking will help prevent the scones from spreading too much.
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your air fryer basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give the scones plenty of space in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
- Monitor Closely: Air fryers cook quickly, so keep a close eye on your scones to prevent over-browning.
Delicious Scone Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basic air fryer scone recipe, try these variations to add some excitement to your baking:
- Cranberry Orange Scones: Add chopped cranberries and orange zest to the dough for a tangy and festive treat.
- Cheese and Chive Scones: Mix shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives into the dough for a savory and flavorful scone.
- Chocolate Chip Scones: Fold in chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet and indulgent scone.
- Cinnamon Sugar Scones: Sprinkle the scones with cinnamon sugar before baking for a warm and comforting flavor.
Beyond the Basic: Creative Scone Ideas
Air fryer scones offer endless creative possibilities. Here are a few more ideas to inspire your next baking adventure:
- Mini Scones: Create bite-sized scones for a fun and easy snack.
- Savory Scones with Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil for savory scones.
- Scone Muffins: Bake individual scone muffins in your air fryer for a convenient and delicious breakfast option.
- Scones with Glaze: After baking, drizzle your scones with a simple glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
A Farewell to the Oven: Embracing Air Fryer Scones
By mastering the art of how to bake scones in air fryer, you’ve unlocked a world of scone possibilities. From classic recipes to creative variations, air frying allows you to enjoy the warm, comforting taste of homemade scones whenever you crave them. So, ditch the oven and embrace the magic of air fryer baking!
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I use frozen butter in my air fryer scones?
A: Yes, you can use frozen butter. Grate the frozen butter into the flour mixture for easier incorporation.
Q: What are the best air fryer settings for scones?
A: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Q: How can I prevent my scones from being dry?
A: Use a high-quality butter or shortening and don’t overmix the dough. Also, ensure that your scones are not overcooked.
Q: Can I freeze air fryer scones?
A: Yes, you can freeze air fryer scones. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and then bake in the air fryer for a few minutes.
Q: What are some other things I can bake in an air fryer?
A: Air fryers are incredibly versatile! You can bake a wide range of items, including cookies, muffins, cakes, and even bread.
