Gluten-Free Air Fryer Cheddar and Chive Scones Recipe
Delicious and fluffy gluten-free scones made in the air fryer, featuring sharp Cheddar cheese and flavorful chives. These scones are quick to prepare and perfect for a savory breakfast or snack, offering a crisp golden exterior and a tender, cheesy interior without the need for an oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 6 scones
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Brunch
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 2/3 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum (200 grams)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Butter and Cheese
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (cubed)
- 1 cup sharp Cheddar cheese (shredded), divided
- 1 tablespoon dried chives (or fresh - see notes)
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup milk, plus 1 tablespoon and extra for brushing
- 2 tablespoons full-fat plain yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or brown mustard)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Air Fryer Basket: Cut a circle of parchment paper slightly smaller than the air fryer basket to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, sea salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper until fully combined.
- Incorporate Butter: Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry mixture. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized butter pieces. Avoid overmixing to maintain flakiness.
- Add Cheese and Chives: Stir in three-quarters of the shredded Cheddar cheese along with the dried chives, distributing them evenly through the flour mixture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the milk, yogurt, mustard, and olive oil until smooth and homogenous.
- Mix Wet and Dry Components: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined, forming a soft and slightly tacky dough. If the dough feels dry or crumbly, add additional milk 1 tablespoon at a time until it holds together when pressed.
- Shape the Dough: Transfer the dough to the parchment paper and gently press it into a 1 1/4-inch thick round, smoothing the surface.
- Cut into Wedges: Slice the dough round into 6 equal wedges, carefully separating them slightly on the parchment to allow for expansion during cooking.
- Prepare for Cooking: Lightly brush the tops of the scones with milk and sprinkle with the remaining shredded Cheddar cheese for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Air Fry the Scones: Place the parchment paper with the scones inside the air fryer basket. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes or until the scones are golden brown and set in the center.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the scones from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes to finish cooking and cool slightly. Serve warm and enjoy the savory flavors!
Notes
- You can use fresh chives instead of dried for a brighter, fresher flavor. Use about 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped.
- Ensure the butter is cold to create flaky layers in the scones.
- If you prefer a more tender texture, omit the cayenne pepper or adjust spices to taste.
- Use full-fat plain yogurt for the best richness and moisture, but sour cream is an excellent substitute.
- Make sure not to overmix the dough to keep the scones light and fluffy.
- If your air fryer runs hot or small, adjust cooking time accordingly and check for doneness early.
