Hey guys! Are you ready to bake some delicious scones but want to skip heating up the whole kitchen with the oven? Well, you're in luck! Today, we're diving into a super easy recipe for Ninja Air Fryer Sultana Scones. These scones are not only quick to make, but they also come out perfectly golden and fluffy every single time. Trust me; once you try this method, you might never go back to traditional baking. So, let's get started and whip up some amazing treats! These sultana scones in the air fryer are to die for.

Why Air Fryer Scones?

Okay, so you might be wondering, why even bother making scones in an air fryer? Good question! Here’s the deal: air fryers are like mini-convection ovens. They circulate hot air around the food, which means everything cooks faster and more evenly. For scones, this translates to a beautifully crisp exterior and a soft, tender interior. Plus, you don’t have to wait for your big oven to preheat, saving you time and energy. It's a win-win!

Another fantastic reason to use an air fryer is the convenience. Imagine you're craving a warm scone but don't want the fuss of a full-scale baking operation. The air fryer is your best friend in these situations. It's compact, easy to clean, and heats up in a flash. Perfect for those impromptu baking sessions or when you just need a little something sweet to go with your afternoon tea. And let's not forget about the consistent results – air fryers are designed to maintain a steady temperature, ensuring that your scones bake evenly every time.

Moreover, air frying can be a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. While scones aren't exactly health food, using an air fryer means you're not adding any extra oils or fats. You get the same satisfying texture and flavor without the added grease. This makes it a slightly lighter option for indulging in your favorite baked goods. Plus, the smaller size of the air fryer encourages portion control, which can be helpful if you're trying to watch your intake. So, go ahead and enjoy your Ninja Air Fryer Sultana Scones guilt-free!

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for these delightful scones:

• 225g self-raising flour
• 50g cold butter, cubed
• 25g caster sugar
• 75ml milk
• 50g sultanas
• 1 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)

Make sure your butter is super cold. This is key to getting those lovely flaky layers in your scones. You can even pop it in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes before you start. Trust me, it makes a difference! Also, don't skip the baking powder – it's what gives your scones that beautiful rise. Always fresh ingredients will help you create the best sultana scones.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Now, let's talk about substitutions and variations because baking should be fun and flexible! If you don't have self-raising flour, you can easily make your own by adding 2 teaspoons of baking powder to 225g of plain flour. Just make sure to mix it well to ensure even distribution. For those who are dairy-free, almond milk or soy milk work wonderfully in place of regular milk. You won't even notice the difference in taste or texture!

If sultanas aren't your thing, feel free to swap them out for other dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or even chopped dried apricots. Chocolate chips also make a fantastic addition for a more indulgent treat. For a citrusy twist, add the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough. This will give your scones a bright, refreshing flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea. And if you're feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced scone that's perfect for autumn.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get baking! Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Ninja Air Fryer Sultana Scones:

1. Get Ready: Preheat your Ninja Air Fryer to 180°C (350°F). This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. While it's preheating, line the air fryer basket with parchment paper. This prevents the scones from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Parchment paper with holes are the best!
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the self-raising flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Give it a good mix to ensure everything is evenly distributed. This step is crucial for creating a consistent texture in your scones.
3. Add Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips or a pastry blender, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. The key here is to work quickly so the butter doesn't melt. Small chunks of butter are what create those desirable flaky layers in your scones. It's why you should keep all the ingredients very cold.
4. Add Sultanas: Stir in the sultanas, making sure they're evenly dispersed throughout the mixture. This ensures that every scone has a delicious burst of fruity sweetness.
5. Add Milk: Gradually add the milk, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix – you want the dough to be just combined. Overmixing can result in tough scones, and nobody wants that!
6. Shape the Scones: Lightly flour a clean surface and turn out the dough. Gently pat it down to about 2cm (¾ inch) thick. Use a round cutter (or a knife if you don't have one) to cut out the scones. Aim for about 5-6cm in diameter.
7. Glaze and Bake: Place the scones in the prepared air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each one. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a lovely golden finish. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
8. Cool and Serve: Once they're done, transfer the scones to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, like clotted cream and jam. Enjoy!

Tips for Perfectly Shaped Scones

Achieving perfectly shaped scones can be a bit tricky, but with a few helpful tips, you'll be turning out bakery-worthy treats in no time. First, make sure your dough is not too wet or too dry. A slightly sticky dough is ideal, but if it's too wet, add a little more flour. If it's too dry, add a tiny bit more milk. When you're patting down the dough, avoid using a rolling pin, as this can flatten the layers and prevent the scones from rising properly. Instead, gently pat the dough with your hands until it's about 2cm thick.

When cutting out the scones, use a sharp, round cutter and press straight down without twisting. Twisting the cutter can seal the edges of the dough, which will also inhibit rising. If you don't have a round cutter, a sharp knife works just as well. Just make sure to cut straight down and avoid dragging the knife through the dough. Another tip is to chill the cut scones in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes before baking. This helps the butter stay cold, resulting in flakier and lighter scones. Finally, when placing the scones in the air fryer basket, leave a little space between each one to allow for even air circulation and prevent them from sticking together.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got these beautiful Ninja Air Fryer Sultana Scones, let’s talk about how to serve them! The classic way, of course, is with clotted cream and jam. A dollop of rich, creamy clotted cream paired with your favorite fruit preserve is simply divine. Strawberry, raspberry, or even blackcurrant jam work wonderfully. For a lighter option, try serving them with whipped cream or a simple pat of butter. These scones are also fantastic with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

If you want to get a little more creative, consider serving your scones with lemon curd or homemade fruit compote. Lemon curd adds a tangy, citrusy flavor that complements the sweetness of the sultanas perfectly, while a warm fruit compote can add a cozy, comforting touch. For a savory twist, try serving them with cream cheese and smoked salmon or a dollop of herbed cream cheese. These scones are also delicious alongside a cup of tea or coffee, making them the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea. And don't forget, these scones are best served warm, so pop them in the air fryer for a minute or two to reheat them before serving if needed.

Storage Tips

So, you've baked a batch of these amazing Ninja Air Fryer Sultana Scones, but you have some leftovers? No problem! Storing them properly will ensure they stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible. The best way to store scones is in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep them soft and prevent them from drying out. If you live in a humid climate, you can add a piece of paper towel to the bottom of the container to absorb any excess moisture.

Scones are typically best enjoyed within 1-2 days of baking. After that, they may start to lose their freshness. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze them. To freeze scones, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This will prevent them from sticking together and protect them from freezer burn. Frozen scones can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes until warm and toasty. Just remember, freshly baked scones are always the best, but these storage tips will help you enjoy them for longer!