Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Scones Recipe [GUIDE]

Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Scones are a fresh take on the classic British treat, made with the help of an air fryer for quicker results and a crispy, golden finish. Traditionally, scones are baked in the oven but Jamie’s version uses the air fryer to save time and energy while keeping that tender, light texture inside. The result? Scones that are just as fluffy and delicious, with less fuss and faster cooking.

It’s all about using the air fryer to achieve a perfectly cooked scone with minimal effort. no need to preheat your oven or wait for ages. These air fryer scones hit the spot.

Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Scones Recipe

Ingredients Needed

The ingredients are pretty straightforward and likely things you already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Self-raising flour – This is a key ingredient since it gives the scones their lift. Using self-raising flour eliminates the need for adding baking powder separately.
• Cold butter – It’s essential that the butter is cold. It’s what creates that crumbly texture in the dough.
• Caster sugar – A little sweetness to balance the flavors but you don’t need much.
• Milk – This brings everything together, turning the flour and butter into a workable dough. Whole milk works best.
• A pinch of salt. A tiny bit to enhance the flavor.
• Optional: If you’re feeling extra, you can add a splash of vanilla extract or even some dried fruit like sultanas for a twist.

Equipment Needed

• Air Fryer – The star of the show, of course. A standard air fryer with a decent basket or tray will do.
• Mixing bowl – For combining all your dry ingredients and then the wet ones.
• Rolling pin – If you’re rolling out the dough, a rolling pin makes it easier.
• Cookie cutter – A round cutter (about 5 cm in diameter) is perfect for shaping the scones.
• Pastry brush – If you want that golden, shiny finish, brushing a little milk or egg wash on top of the scones before they go into the air fryer works wonders.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Scones

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

   In a large mixing bowl, sift the self-raising flour and add a pinch of salt. Sifting ensures a smooth dough and lighter scones. Add the caster sugar to the dry mixture and give it a quick stir.

2. Cut in the Cold Butter:

   Now, cut your cold butter into small cubes and rub it into the flour mixture. Use your fingers to crumble the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. This is the key to a soft, flaky texture in your scones.

3. Add the Milk:

   Make a well in the center of the mixture and slowly pour in the milk. Mix gently until the dough just comes together. don’t overwork it. The dough should be soft but not too sticky.

4. Shape the Scones:

   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it down with your hands until it’s about 2.5 cm thick. Use your cookie cutter to cut out the scones. Try not to twist the cutter as you press down. it’ll help them rise evenly.

5. Preheat and Air Fry:

   Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Place the scones into the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded as they need space to puff up. Brush the tops with a little milk to get that golden top.

6. Cook the Scones:

   Air fry the scones for about 8-10 minutes. They should come out golden and risen. If they need a little more time, check every minute or so to ensure they don’t burn.

7. Serve:

   Once the scones are done, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve them warm with clotted cream and strawberry jam for the classic British experience.

What I Learnt

Making scones in the air fryer was way easier than I expected. Normally, I associate baking scones with a bit of a hassle-preheating the oven, waiting for the dough to rise, all that jazz. The air fryer cuts down the time and effort without sacrificing the texture or flavor.

One key thing I learned is how important it is to keep the butter cold. It’s a simple step but it makes a huge difference in achieving that perfect flaky texture. Also, the air fryer’s quick cooking time ensures that the scones don’t dry out which can sometimes happen in a conventional oven if you’re not paying close attention.

Finally, I was pleasantly surprised by how evenly the air fryer cooked the scones. They came out perfectly golden and soft on the inside. I didn’t have to babysit them like I usually do with oven-baked scones.

Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Scones

Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Scones are a game-changer for anyone who loves baking but doesn’t want to wait around for a long oven time. That said, there are plenty of ways to tweak the recipe to suit your taste. Here are some ideas:

1. Swap the Flour: Jamie’s recipe usually calls for plain flour. But if you’re looking for a healthier option, you could switch it up with whole wheat flour or even gluten-free flour. Just keep in mind that these substitutions may alter the texture slightly, making the scones a bit denser but still delicious!
2. Add Extra Flavour: The basic scone recipe is great on its own but if you want to jazz things up, consider adding in dried fruit like raisins, sultanas or currants. A handful of chopped dark chocolate or citrus zest (like lemon or orange) can also add a fresh twist.
3. Use Buttermilk or Yogurt: Instead of regular milk, try buttermilk or yogurt. This gives the scones a slightly tangy flavor and makes them more tender. Buttermilk, in particular, reacts well with the baking powder, giving the scones a nice lift.
4. Sweeten It: If you like your scones a bit sweeter, you could add a tablespoon of sugar to the dry ingredients. Alternatively, a drizzle of honey over the top before air frying creates a nice caramelized, glossy finish.
5. Herb and Cheese Scones: Want to go savoury instead of sweet? Add grated cheese (cheddar is a classic) and finely chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme. These scones pair perfectly with a soup or salad.
6. Baking Time & Temperature: Depending on your air fryer’s brand, the cooking time and temperature can vary. Keep an eye on the scones as they bake and if you’re unsure, give them a poke to check for doneness. You might need to tweak the time slightly but generally, air fryer scones take around 8-10 minutes at 180°C (350°F).

Storage Tips For Leftovers

We all know how quickly scones disappear but if you happen to have leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh:

1. Cool Them First: After you’ve made your scones, let them cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents condensation from building up which can make them soggy.
2. Airtight Container: Store the cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for 2-3 days. If you’re in a warmer climate, you might want to place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb excess moisture.
3. Freezing Scones: Want to save some for later? Scones freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, pop them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or heat them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back that fresh-baked texture.
4. Reheating Tips: If you prefer your scones warm, the air fryer can be your best friend. Preheat your air fryer to about 160°C (320°F) and place your scones in for about 3-4 minutes to crisp them up again. This works especially well if they’ve been stored in the fridge.

What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Scones?

Scones can be incredibly versatile, depending on whether you’re aiming for a sweet or savoury treat. Here are some ideas for both:

Sweet Pairings

1. Clotted Cream & Jam: This classic combo never gets old. You can’t go wrong with a thick dollop of clotted cream and a spoonful of strawberry or raspberry jam. The rich cream balances the light, crumbly texture of the scones.
2. Fresh Berries: A side of mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries) is a refreshing contrast to the dense, buttery scone. You could also add a dusting of powdered sugar on top for a touch of elegance.
3. Custard: For a bit of decadence, serve the scones with a side of homemade custard. You can even drizzle a little over the top of the scone for an indulgent twist.
4. Butter and Honey: For something simple, just spread some soft butter and drizzle honey over the top. It’s a classic combo that’s hard to beat.
5. Tea: No scone is complete without a cup of tea. A light Earl Grey or a rich English Breakfast tea is perfect to pair with sweet scones.

Savory Pairings

1. Cheese & Cold Cuts: If you’ve made savory scones, pair them with cheese, prosciutto or smoked salmon. A sharp cheddar or creamy brie is a fantastic choice for that balance of flavors.
2. Soup: A warm bowl of soup pairs wonderfully with savory scones, especially if you’ve gone the herb and cheese route. Tomato soup, leek and potato or even a creamy mushroom soup would work beautifully.
3. Avocado & Eggs: Top your savory scones with mashed avocado and a poached egg. The creamy avocado and runny yolk make the scone more indulgent and filling. Add a pinch of sea salt and pepper for extra flavor.
4. Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great side to savory scones. The freshness of the salad helps balance the richness of the scones, making it a great light lunch or brunch.

FAQs

Can I Use Any Type Of Flour For Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Scones?

It’s best to use self-raising flour for a light, fluffy texture. You can substitute with plain flour, but you’ll need to add baking powder.

How Long Do I Cook The Scones In The Air Fryer?

Cook them for about 8-10 minutes at 180°C (350°F), or until golden brown on top.

Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Scones?

Yes! Once they’re cooled, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just pop them in the air fryer to reheat.