Apple and Cinnamon Scones

Welcome to an enticing journey where your taste buds meet simplicity and comfort, as we explore how to make scrumptious Apple and Cinnamon Scones using an air fryer. The combination of sweet apples and warming cinnamon, baked until golden, promises to be a delight for any occasion. These scones are easy to whip up, requiring just a handful of ingredients and an air fryer.

Why Apple and Cinnamon Scones?

The charm of apple and cinnamon is eternal. They’re a symbolic duo known across generations and cultures for their delightful synergy. This recipe takes the classic scone—a quintessentially British treat—and elevates it with the comforting touch of apple and cinnamon. These scones are perfect for a morning breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a delightful snack.

Freshly baked apple and cinnamon scones

Ingredients

  • 2 cups self-raising flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, diced and chilled
  • 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 egg, beaten, for glazing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the self-raising flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
  2. Incorporate the Butter: Add the chilled, diced butter into the dry ingredients. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs.
  3. Add the Apple: Stir in the finely chopped apple, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  4. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until a soft dough forms.
  5. Shape the Scones: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a 3/4-inch thick round. Use a floured cutter to cut out scones from the dough, re-rolling scraps as needed.
  6. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F).
  7. Prepare for Frying: Arrange the scones in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't touch each other. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
  8. Air Fry the Scones: Cook the scones in the air fryer for about 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
  9. Cool and Serve: Allow the scones to cool slightly before serving. They pair wonderfully with a knob of butter or a drizzle of honey.
Ingredients for apple and cinnamon scones

Tips for Perfect Scones

  • Chill the Butter: Ensure the butter is cold to achieve a flaky, tender texture in the scones.
  • Don’t Overwork the Dough: Handle the dough as little as possible to maintain the lightness of the scone.
  • Uniform Pieces: Cut the apple into small, uniform pieces for even distribution and cooking.
  • Test Run: If you’re new to air frying, consider a test batch to determine the optimal timing and temperature for your specific air fryer model.

Variations

For those who wish to experiment, consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. Alternatively, a sprinkle of nutmeg can provide a deeper spice profile. You can also replace the apple with pears for a nuanced flavour change, or add a handful of raisins for added sweetness.

Air fryer with scones ready to bake

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Apple and Cinnamon Scones are not just a treat to the senses, but also a testament to the versatility of air frying in traditional baking. This recipe balances convenience and flavour, making it an ideal choice for those eager to enjoy homemade baking with minimal effort. Give this delightful recipe a try, and add a touch of Britain’s beloved sweet traditions to your kitchen repertoire!