Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 27–30 minutes
Servings: 8 scones
Difficulty Level: Easy
Cuisine: British
Course: Breakfast, Snack, Side Dish
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) self-raising flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- ¼ cup (60g) cold unsalted butter, diced
- 1½ cups (150g) grated mature cheddar cheese
- ⅔ cup (160ml) whole milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
- Extra grated cheese for topping
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Pastry cutter or fingertips
- Rolling pin
- Round cutter (about 2½ inches)
- Pastry brush
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.
Step 2: Rub in the Butter
Add the cold diced butter to the flour mixture. Rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Avoid overworking the butter, as small pieces help create light and flaky scones.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Reserve a small handful of cheese for sprinkling on top before cooking.
Step 4: Make the Dough
Pour in the milk and Dijon mustard, if using. Mix gently with a spoon until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels dry, add an extra tablespoon of milk. If it’s sticky, lightly dust with flour.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it just two or three times until smooth. Pat or roll it to approximately 1-inch (2.5cm) thickness.
Using a round cutter, cut out the scones without twisting the cutter. Gather the scraps, gently reshape, and cut additional scones until all the dough is used.
Step 6: Prepare for Air Frying
Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (355°F) for 3 minutes.
Brush the tops of each scone with beaten egg and sprinkle with the reserved grated cheese.
Place the scones into the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each one so the hot air can circulate properly. Cook in batches if necessary.
Step 7: Air Fry
Cook at 180°C (355°F) for 12–15 minutes until the scones are well risen and golden brown. The tops should be crisp while the centers remain soft and fluffy.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Transfer the cooked scones to a wire rack and allow them to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Enjoy warm with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite soup.
Tips for Success
- Always use cold butter for a lighter texture.
- Avoid over-kneading the dough, as this can make the scones tough.
- Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.
- Check the scones after 10 minutes, as air fryer models may cook at different speeds.
Recipe Variations
- Add chopped chives for extra flavor.
- Mix in cooked bacon pieces for a smoky twist.
- Use Red Leicester or Gruyère cheese instead of cheddar.
- Add finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy version.
- Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top before cooking.
Storage
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freeze cooled scones in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese scones pair wonderfully with:
- Tomato soup
- Vegetable soup
- Chicken soup
- Butter
- Cream cheese
- Scrambled eggs
- Fresh salad
- Smoked salmon
They are equally delicious for breakfast, brunch, picnics, lunch boxes, or afternoon tea.
Nutrition Information (Per Scone)
- Calories: 245
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 42mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Calcium: 220mg