Go Back
Cranberry orange scones with golden brown crusts, deep red cranberries and flecks of orange zest visible throughout.

Air Fryer Cranberry Orange Scones

Tender, golden cranberry orange scones made in the air fryer in 32 minutes. This easy recipe uses fresh or dried cranberries, orange zest, and half and half for 8 servings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 270
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour 240 g
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar 55 g
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter 57 g, cold and diced
  • 1 cup cranberries fresh, dried, or frozen — see notes
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar 67 g
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 3/4 cup half and half
  • 1 large egg

Method
 

  1. Whisk the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt together in a large mixing bowl until thoroughly combined.
  2. Cut in the cold butter, then add the half and half and egg. Mix just until a shaggy dough begins to form.
  3. Fold in the cranberries, granulated sugar, and orange zest gently, stirring lightly so the dough remains tender.
  4. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead just until it holds together.
  5. Pat into a circle about 6 inches across and 1 inch thick, then cut into 8 wedges.
  6. Arrange the wedges in the air fryer basket in a single layer, spacing them apart.
  7. Set the air fryer to 365°F (185°C) and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, checking around the halfway point — exact time depends on your air fryer. They're done when golden on top and set in the center.
  8. Cool on a wire rack. Glaze once fully cooled, if desired.