Ninja Air Fryer Sultana Scones: Easy Recipe!

by Alex Braham 45 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving into a super easy and delicious recipe: Ninja Air Fryer Sultana Scones. If you're anything like me, you love a good scone, but don't always have the time or energy to bake them in a traditional oven. That’s where the Ninja Air Fryer comes to the rescue! This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast, a delightful afternoon tea, or just a little treat whenever you fancy something warm and comforting. Plus, using an air fryer means they cook faster and come out perfectly golden brown every time. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get baking!

Why Air Fryer Scones?

Let's be real, using an air fryer for scones might sound a bit unconventional, but trust me, it's a game-changer. First off, the speed is unbeatable. You can have freshly baked scones in under 20 minutes, which is perfect for those last-minute cravings or when you have unexpected guests. Secondly, the even cooking ensures that your scones are perfectly golden brown on the outside and beautifully soft on the inside. No more worrying about burnt bottoms or undercooked centers! Also, the air fryer uses less energy than a conventional oven, making it a more economical choice. And let's not forget the crispy edges – the air fryer gives the scones a delightful, slightly crispy exterior that's just irresistible. Finally, it’s super convenient – no need to preheat a large oven for a small batch of scones. It’s a win-win all around!

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we start, let’s gather all the ingredients. This recipe is pretty straightforward, and you probably already have most of these in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 225g Self-Raising Flour: This is the key ingredient that gives our scones their light and fluffy texture. Make sure it's fresh for the best results.
  • 50g Cold Butter: Cold butter is crucial for creating those flaky layers in the scones. Cut it into small cubes for easier mixing.
  • 25g Caster Sugar: Just a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors. You can use granulated sugar if you don’t have caster sugar on hand.
  • 125ml Milk: Milk helps to bind the ingredients together and adds moisture to the scones. You can use any kind of milk you prefer, including dairy-free alternatives.
  • 50g Sultanas: These little gems add a lovely chewy texture and burst of sweetness to the scones. You can substitute them with raisins or dried cranberries if you like.
  • 1 tsp Baking Powder: This gives an extra lift to the scones, ensuring they are light and airy.
  • Pinch of Salt: A little salt enhances the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
  • 1 Egg (for egg wash): This is optional, but brushing the scones with egg wash before air frying gives them a beautiful golden-brown sheen.

Make sure you have all your ingredients measured out and ready to go before you start. This will make the whole process much smoother and more enjoyable!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get down to the fun part – making these delicious scones! Follow these simple steps, and you'll have warm, freshly baked scones in no time.

  1. Prepare the Dough:

    • In a large bowl, combine the self-raising flour, baking powder, and salt. Give it a good mix to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
    • Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. This is a crucial step for creating those flaky layers, so take your time and be gentle.
    • Stir in the caster sugar and sultanas. Make sure the sultanas are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

  2. Add the Wet Ingredients:

    • Gradually add the milk to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough scones. You want a soft, slightly sticky dough.
    • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat it down to about 1 inch thick.

  3. Cut Out the Scones:

    • Using a round cookie cutter (about 2 inches in diameter), cut out the scones. Try to avoid twisting the cutter, as this can seal the edges and prevent the scones from rising properly. Re-roll any scraps of dough to cut out more scones.

  4. Prepare for Air Frying:

    • If you're using an egg wash, whisk the egg in a small bowl. Brush the tops of the scones with the egg wash to give them a lovely golden color.
    • Place the scones in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not too crowded. You may need to cook them in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.

  5. Air Fry the Scones:

    • Set your Ninja Air Fryer to 180°C (350°F) and air fry the scones for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and well-risen. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer.

  6. Cool and Serve:

    • Once the scones are cooked, carefully remove them from the air fryer and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as clotted cream and jam.

And there you have it – delicious, homemade sultana scones made in your Ninja Air Fryer! It’s so easy, right? These scones are perfect for any occasion, and I guarantee they’ll be a hit with your family and friends.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Scones

To ensure your scones turn out perfectly every time, here are a few extra tips and tricks:

  • Use Cold Ingredients: Cold butter and milk are essential for creating those flaky layers in the scones. The cold butter creates steam as it bakes, which helps to separate the layers and create a light, airy texture.
  • Don't Overmix the Dough: Overmixing the dough develops the gluten, which can result in tough scones. Mix the ingredients until just combined, and don't worry if the dough is a little bit lumpy.
  • Handle the Dough Gently: When patting down and cutting out the scones, be gentle and avoid pressing down too hard. This will help to keep the scones light and fluffy.
  • Preheat Your Air Fryer (Optional): Some air fryers benefit from preheating, while others don't require it. Check your air fryer's manual to see if preheating is recommended. If so, preheat it to 180°C (350°F) before adding the scones.
  • Don't Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Overcrowding the air fryer can prevent the scones from cooking evenly. Cook them in batches if necessary, and make sure there is enough space around each scone for the hot air to circulate.
  • Adjust Cooking Time as Needed: Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer and the size of your scones. Keep an eye on them and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are golden brown and cooked through.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to get creative with your scones! Try adding different dried fruits, such as cranberries or apricots, or mix in some lemon zest or cinnamon for extra flavor. You can also add a glaze after baking for an extra touch of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you've baked these amazing scones, it's time to enjoy them! Here are a few serving suggestions to take your scone experience to the next level:

  • Classic Clotted Cream and Jam: This is the traditional way to serve scones, and it's a classic for a reason! The rich, creamy clotted cream and sweet, fruity jam complement the scones perfectly.
  • Butter and Honey: If you're looking for something a little simpler, spread some butter and drizzle honey over your scones. It's a delicious and comforting combination.
  • Lemon Curd: For a tangy twist, try serving your scones with lemon curd. The bright, citrusy flavor pairs beautifully with the scones.
  • Cheese and Chutney: If you prefer savory scones, try serving them with cheese and chutney. A sharp cheddar or crumbly Wensleydale cheese works well, and a sweet and tangy chutney adds a lovely contrast.
  • Soup and Salad: Scones also make a great accompaniment to soup and salad. Serve them alongside your favorite soup for a comforting and satisfying meal.
  • Tea or Coffee: Of course, no scone experience is complete without a cup of tea or coffee. The warm, comforting beverage complements the scones perfectly.

Variations to Try

One of the best things about scones is how versatile they are. Here are a few variations you can try to mix things up:

  • Cheese Scones: Add grated cheese (such as cheddar or parmesan) to the dough for a savory twist. Serve with butter or chutney.
  • Fruit Scones: Experiment with different dried fruits, such as cranberries, apricots, or cherries. You can also add fresh berries to the dough, but be careful not to overmix.
  • Lemon Scones: Add lemon zest and a little lemon juice to the dough for a bright, citrusy flavor. You can also make a lemon glaze to drizzle over the scones after baking.
  • Chocolate Chip Scones: Add chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet treat. You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate chips, depending on your preference.
  • Herb Scones: Add fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or chives) to the dough for a savory flavor. Serve with butter or cream cheese.

Conclusion

So there you have it! A super easy and delicious recipe for Ninja Air Fryer Sultana Scones. I hope you guys enjoy making and eating these as much as I do. They're perfect for any occasion and are sure to impress your friends and family. Remember to have fun in the kitchen and don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors and variations. Happy baking, and I'll catch you in the next recipe!