Air Fryer Maple Bacon and Pumpkin Scones

Imagine the cozy scent of pumpkin spice mingling with the smoky, salty aroma of sizzling bacon. These Air Fryer Maple Bacon and Pumpkin Scones are the ultimate fall treat, combining savory crunch with a sweet maple glaze. Using an air fryer means you get that perfect golden exterior and a tender, flaky middle in half the time of a traditional oven. Whether you are hosting a weekend brunch or just want a special snack with your morning coffee, these scones deliver an incredible depth of flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Servings: 8 scones
• Difficulty: Medium

Nutrition values

• Calories: 310 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Carbs: 38g

Why Make This Air Fryer Maple Bacon and Pumpkin Scones

You should make these scones because they offer the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The air fryer circulates hot air more efficiently than a standard oven, which helps the scones rise quickly and creates a crisp outer crust while keeping the inside moist. Pumpkin puree provides a rich, earthy base, while the maple-glazed bacon adds a salty “pop” that cuts through the sweetness. Plus, you won’t have to wait for a large oven to preheat, making this a much faster way to enjoy fresh bakery-style pastries at home.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream (plus more for brushing)
• 1 large egg
• 6 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

Directions

Step 1: Preparation

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut the cold, cubed butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, and egg. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and add the crumbled bacon. Gently fold everything together until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick circle. Cut the circle into 8 even wedges.

Step 2: Cooking

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Line the air fryer basket with a piece of parchment paper, ensuring there is space for air to circulate around the edges. Place the scone wedges in the basket, leaving at least an inch of space between them (you may need to work in batches). Brush the tops of the scones with a little extra heavy cream. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 3: Plating

While the scones cool slightly on a wire rack, whisk together the powdered sugar and maple syrup in a small bowl to create a thick glaze. If the glaze is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk or water. Once the scones are warm but not hot, drizzle the maple glaze generously over the tops. Serve immediately while the bacon is still crisp and the pumpkin center is tender.

Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Maple Bacon and Pumpkin Scones

The most important rule for flaky scones is to keep your butter cold. If the butter melts before it hits the air fryer, the scones will be flat and dense. Try putting your cubed butter in the freezer for 10 minutes before mixing. Additionally, do not overwork the dough; mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid developing too much gluten. If your air fryer runs hot, check the scones at the 8-minute mark to prevent the bottoms from burning.

Delicious Variations

If you want a different flavor profile, try swapping the bacon for toasted pecans or walnuts for a vegetarian-friendly crunch. You can also add a half-cup of white chocolate chips to the dough for extra sweetness. For a more savory twist, reduce the sugar to two tablespoons and add a half-cup of sharp cheddar cheese to the mix. If you prefer a stronger spice, add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the flour mixture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these scones ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough wedges and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. You can air fry them directly from frozen, just add 3 to 4 minutes to the total cooking time.

Why did my scones come out dry?

Scones usually turn out dry if there is too much flour or if they are overbaked. Be sure to measure your flour using the spoon-and-level method rather than scooping directly with the measuring cup, which packs the flour down.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon works well, but since it has less fat, it may not get quite as crispy. You might want to fry it a bit longer before adding it to the dough to ensure it provides a good texture.

Do I have to use parchment paper in the air fryer?

It is highly recommended for scones because the dough is soft and can stick to the basket. Make sure the parchment paper is cut to fit and does not block all the air vents, otherwise the bottoms won’t cook evenly.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 300°F for 2 to 3 minutes to restore the crisp texture.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Maple Bacon and Pumpkin Scones are a game-changer for your autumn baking routine. They prove that you don’t need a traditional oven to create high-quality, flaky pastries with complex flavors. The combination of salty bacon, sweet maple, and earthy pumpkin creates a comforting experience in every bite. Give this recipe a try the next time you want a fast, impressive treat that celebrates the best flavors of the season!

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