1. Prepare the Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and mustard powder (if using).
- Cut in the Butter:
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Cheese:
- Stir in the shredded cheese until evenly distributed.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and egg.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the milk and egg mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
2. Shape the Scones
- Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Roll the dough out to about 1/2-inch thickness using a rolling pin.
- Cut the Scones:
- Use a biscuit cutter or round cookie cutter to cut out scones. Gather the scraps, re-roll, and cut out more scones.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes.
4. Cook the Scones
- Arrange in Air Fryer:
- Place the scones in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not touch. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Brush with Milk:
- Lightly brush the tops of the scones with a little extra milk to help them brown.
- Air Fry:
- Cook the scones at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Cool Slightly:
- Allow the scones to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve:
- Serve the Cheese Scones warm, with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite toppings. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Cheese Scones
- Cold Butter: Ensure the butter is cold when cutting it into the flour mixture to create a flaky texture.
- Do Not Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to avoid tough scones.
- Even Cutting: Use a sharp cutter and press straight down without twisting to help the scones rise evenly.
Variations to Try
- Herb Cheese Scones: Add 1-2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs like chives, rosemary, or thyme to the dough for extra flavor.
- Spicy Cheese Scones: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to the dough for a spicy kick.
- Cheese and Bacon Scones: Mix in some cooked, crumbled bacon for a savory twist.
Conclusion
Cheese Scones are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any time of day. With their cheesy flavor and fluffy texture, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Key Takeaway
The secret to perfect Cheese Scones lies in using cold butter, not overmixing the dough, and cooking them at the right temperature. By following this guide, you’ll create delicious and fluffy scones every time.
We hope you found this guide helpful and inspiring. Enjoy your Air Fryer Cheese Scones!