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Delicious air fryer buttery scones with a golden-brown crust

Air Fryer Scones

Quick and delightful air fryer scones that are golden, tender, and versatile enough for any occasion, from brunch to tea with friends.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Breakfast, Brunch, Snack
Cuisine American, British
Servings 6 scones

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Substitute: 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for GF
  • 1/4 cup sugar Use coconut sugar or honey adjustment if preferred
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed Substitute: vegan butter for dairy-free
  • 1/2 cup milk Whole milk gives richer texture; plant milks work too
  • 1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract

Add-ins

  • 1/2 cup raisins or currants (optional) Try chocolate chips or chopped dried apricot instead

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large bowl, whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
  • Add the cold, cubed butter and cut it into the dry mix until the texture looks like coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter remaining.
  • Pour in the milk and vanilla, and stir with a spatula until the dough just comes together—don’t overmix.
  • Fold in the raisins or currants if using, distributing them evenly without overworking the dough.
  • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead very gently 4–6 times to bring it into a smooth ball.
  • Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick and cut into 6 or 8 wedges, or press out rounds with a cutter.

Cooking

  • Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) and lightly grease or line the basket if your model needs it.
  • Place scones in a single layer in the basket, leaving small gaps for air circulation.
  • Air fry for 10–12 minutes, rotating the basket once if necessary, until the tops are golden brown.
  • Remove and let cool slightly on a rack before serving.

Notes

Keep the butter cold for flaky layers. If you add very wet mix-ins, reduce milk slightly. For shiny tops, brush scones with a little milk before air frying.
Keyword Air Fryer, Brunch Recipes, Easy Recipe, quick baking, scones