Cheese Scones in the Air Fryer – Quick, Golden, and Irresistibly Fluffy

There’s something deeply comforting about the aroma of freshly baked scones wafting through the kitchen. And when you take a classic like cheese scones and make them effortlessly in the air fryer, you get a quick, golden, flaky treat with crisp edges and fluffy centres—without ever turning on the oven.

Whether you’re after a speedy savoury snack, a breakfast side, or a bake sale hit, these air fryer cheese scones will not disappoint.

Why Use the Air Fryer for Scones?

Using an air fryer:

  • Reduces baking time (ready in under 15 minutes!)
  • Creates a beautifully crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft
  • Avoids overheating your kitchen (especially in summer)
  • Is perfect for small-batch baking

Ingredients

This recipe makes approximately 6–8 medium scones:

  • 225g self-raising flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp mustard powder or a pinch of cayenne (optional, for depth)
  • 50g cold butter, cubed
  • 100g grated mature cheddar (plus extra for topping)
  • 1 medium egg
  • Approx. 100ml milk (plus extra for brushing)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, and optional mustard powder. Add the cold butter and rub it in with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.

2. Add Cheese

Stir in the grated cheese, reserving a little to sprinkle on top before cooking.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients

Beat the egg with the milk, then gradually pour it into the dry ingredients. Mix with a fork or palette knife until just combined. You want a soft but not sticky dough—add a touch more milk if it feels too dry.

4. Shape the Scones

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently pat it down to about 2.5cm (1 inch) thick. Use a round cutter to stamp out scones, re-rolling the scraps gently as needed.

5. Prepare the Air Fryer

Line the bottom of the air fryer basket with parchment paper. Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 2–3 minutes.

6. Cook the Scones

Arrange the scones in the basket, leaving a little space between them (they will rise). Brush the tops with milk and sprinkle over the remaining cheese.

Air fry for 10–12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the scones sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your cheese scones:

  • Warm, with butter and a slather of chutney
  • Alongside soups like tomato or leek and potato
  • Split and filled with cream cheese and roasted vegetables for a savoury twist

Tips for Success

  • Use cold butter and milk for the flakiest texture.
  • Don’t overwork the dough – keep mixing and kneading to a minimum.
  • Vary your cheese – try Red Leicester, Gruyère, or a mix with Parmesan.
  • Add herbs like chives or thyme for a gourmet touch.

Storage and Reheating

These scones are best enjoyed fresh but will keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 160°C for 3–4 minutes to restore their crisp edges

Who knew scones could be this easy? The air fryer transforms this traditional bake into a fuss-free, everyday pleasure. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, these golden cheese scones are perfect for those cozy moments or impromptu guests. Once you try them, you may never go back to oven baking again.