Craving a delightful treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the zestiness of oranges? Look no further than these mouthwatering Air Fryer Cranberry Orange Scones! Whether you’re hosting a brunch, enjoying a cozy afternoon tea, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these scones are sure to impress with their delightful flavor and fluffy texture. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create these delectable treats right in your own kitchen.
The Joy of Air Fryer Baking
Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods while still delivering that crispy, golden finish we all love. When it comes to baking, air fryers excel at creating perfectly baked goods with a fraction of the oil typically used in conventional baking. Plus, they preheat quickly and cook food evenly, making them ideal for whipping up a batch of fresh scones in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- Zest of 1 orange
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (180°C). This ensures that it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your scones.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the dried cranberries and orange zest.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough scones.
- Shape the Scones: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a circle that’s about 1 inch thick.
- Cut the Dough: Use a sharp knife or a biscuit cutter to cut the dough into wedges or rounds, depending on your preference.
- Bake in the Air Fryer: Place the scones in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave some space between each one for air circulation. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the scones are done baking, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. These scones are delicious on their own, but you can also enjoy them with a dollop of clotted cream and a spoonful of your favorite jam for an extra special treat.
Final Thoughts
With their perfect balance of tart cranberries, zesty orange zest, and buttery goodness, these Air Fryer Cranberry Orange Scones are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they’re guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for something sweet and satisfying. So why wait? Fire up your air fryer and treat yourself to a batch of these irresistible scones today!