Air Fryer Scones: A Quick, Easy Treat?

can i make scones in air fryer

Scones are a popular British treat, often served with clotted cream and jam. They are typically baked in the oven, but can also be made in an air fryer.

Air fryers are a convenient alternative to ovens as they heat up quickly, use less power, and are more cost-effective. They are ideal for small batches and can produce scones with a fluffy texture and golden crust in under 20 minutes.

To make scones in an air fryer, simply combine flour, baking powder, cubed butter, sugar, and milk to form a soft dough. Shape the dough into a disc, cut out the scones, brush with milk, and air fry until golden brown.

So, if you're looking for a quick and easy way to make scones, give your air fryer a go!

Characteristics Values
Preparation time 5-20 minutes
Cooking time 7-18 minutes
Total time 18-56 minutes
Serving size 4-12 scones
Main ingredients Self-raising flour, butter, milk, sugar, Baking powder
Additional ingredients Caster sugar, Lemon juice, Vanilla extract, Raisins, Currants, Chocolate chips, Cherries
Equipment Air fryer, Cookie cutter, Wire rack, Food processor, Rolling pin
Temperature 180-200°C
Air fryer type Temperature control, timer, no paddle

cycookery

What ingredients do I need?

Making scones in an air fryer is a quick and convenient way to make a small batch of scones without having to turn on your oven. Here is a list of ingredients you will need to make scones in an air fryer:

  • Self-raising flour: This type of flour is crucial for achieving the desired texture and rise of the scones. You can use plain/all-purpose flour by adding baking powder. For every 150g of self-raising flour, add one and a half teaspoons of baking powder to plain flour.
  • Baking powder: This is a chemical raising agent that helps the scones rise and gives them a light and fluffy texture.
  • Butter: Use unsalted butter and cut it into small cubes. Cold butter is preferred as it helps keep the dough cool and gives the scones a flaky texture.
  • Caster sugar: White or golden caster sugar is best for scones. You can also use granulated sugar, but it may not dissolve completely and might affect the texture.
  • Milk: Use semi-skimmed or whole milk. You can also use buttermilk or plant-based milk.
  • Lemon juice: Adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the milk will make it sour, resulting in lighter and fluffier scones.
  • Vanilla extract: This adds extra flavour to your scones.

Optional ingredients for different variations of scones:

  • Raisins or currants: Add 45g for fruit scones.
  • Cherries: Use glace (candied) cherries for cherry scones. Cut them into quarters for easier distribution throughout the dough.
  • Chocolate chips: Add 45g for chocolate chip scones.
  • Cheddar cheese: Omit the sugar and add grated cheddar cheese for cheese scones.

cycookery

How do I make the dough?

Firstly, gather your ingredients. You will need self-raising flour, baking powder, butter, sugar, and milk. You can also add a pinch of salt and vanilla extract for extra flavour. For the butter, it is best to use unsalted and cube it beforehand so that it comes to room temperature quicker.

Next, prepare your air fryer by preheating it to 180-200°C. Then, in a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. You can also add a pinch of salt to this mixture. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter, two butter knives, or your fingertips, and mix until the texture resembles breadcrumbs. Be sure not to overwork the dough.

Now, mix in the sugar. In a separate bowl or jug, combine the milk with vanilla extract (if using) and mix this into the flour mixture. Gradually add the liquid to the flour until a soft dough is formed. You may need to use your hands towards the end. The dough will be quite sticky and soft at this stage.

Once your dough is ready, lightly flour your work surface and shape the dough into a round disc, roughly 2-3 cm thick, using your hands. Avoid using a rolling pin as this can affect the texture of the scones.

Finally, use a cookie or scone cutter to cut out your scones. Typically, a 5-6 cm cutter is used, but you can go for a smaller size if you prefer. Remember not to twist the cutter when stamping out the scones, as this can affect how they rise. Simply press straight down and lift. If needed, dip the cutter in a little flour to prevent the dough from sticking.

cycookery

What temperature should I set my air fryer to?

The ideal temperature to set your air fryer to when making scones is 180°C or 185°C. However, this may vary depending on the type of air fryer you have. For example, if your air fryer tends to cook quickly, you may want to cook your scones at a lower temperature of 160°C to prevent the inside from being raw.

It is also important to note that not all air fryers are the same size, and temperatures may vary, so you may need to adjust the time or temperature by a few degrees or minutes either way. If the scones are not quite baked after the recommended time, you can try turning them over and resetting your air fryer to bake for a few more minutes.

Additionally, if you are making a larger batch of scones (8 or more), it is recommended to bake them in the oven at 200°C for 10 minutes instead of using an air fryer.

cycookery

How long do I cook the scones for?

The cooking time for scones in an air fryer depends on the quantity of scones being cooked, the size of the scones, and the model of the air fryer being used.

For example, a recipe for 12 scones suggests baking the scones in batches of 4 for 8-12 minutes at 200°C/400°F. Another recipe for 5 scones suggests baking for 7-8 minutes at 200°C/400°F. A third recipe for 4 scones suggests baking for 11 minutes at 185°C.

It is recommended to keep an eye on the scones during the first cook to ensure they do not burn, and to adjust the temperature or cooking time as needed.

Some air fryers may require the scones to be turned over during the cooking process to ensure even browning.

cycookery

How should I serve my scones?

There are many ways to serve scones, depending on your taste preferences. Here are some suggestions:

Sweet options:

  • Strawberry jam and clotted cream (a classic choice, especially for afternoon tea)
  • Raspberry or blackcurrant jam
  • Whipped double cream and strawberry or blackcurrant coulis
  • Lemon curd and cream
  • Blueberries and maple syrup
  • Bananas and cream, with a drizzle of caramel
  • Dust with icing sugar (powdered sugar)
  • Chocolate chips
  • Cinnamon sugar

Savoury options:

  • Butter
  • Cheddar cheese (a popular choice for savoury scones)
  • Cayenne or chipotle powder
  • Fresh herbs
  • Sun-dried tomatoes
  • Potatoes

You can also experiment with different types of dried fruit, such as raisins, sultanas, currants, cherries, or dates. Additionally, you can add spices or extracts to the dough for extra flavour.

How to Dry Parsley in an Air Fryer

You may want to see also

Frequently asked questions

It is best to use self-raising flour for scones in an air fryer. This type of flour works well for achieving the desired texture and rise.

To prevent sticking, it is recommended to line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or use a non-stick cooking spray before placing the scones in the air fryer.

Yes, you can freeze the scones before air frying. Prepare the dough, shape the scones, and then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to air fry, simply thaw them for a few minutes before placing them in the air fryer.

It will depend on your air fryer and the size of your scones. Generally, they will take between 15 and 20 minutes.

Bake your scones at 180ºC. If your air fryer tends to cook quickly, cook for longer at 160ºC to avoid having a raw scone inside.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment