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Baking a cake in an air fryer is not only fast but can yield a beautifully moist and fluffy dessert. In this recipe, we’re going to walk through making a classic vanilla cake in your air fryer. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re baking a treat for a birthday or just a cozy afternoon snack. The best part? Air fryer cakes often have a great texture, and the air fryer’s heat circulates evenly, so it ensures the cake bakes perfectly without drying out.
In this detailed guide, you’ll find all the necessary ingredients, steps, times, and temperatures to make a fluffy and delicious air fryer vanilla cake.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (56g)
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup whole milk (120ml)
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 tbsp vegetable oil (for greasing)
Optional: 1/2 tsp lemon zest for added flavor
Frosting (Optional)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (56g)
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (180g)
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp whole milk (or more, if needed)
Pinch of salt
Tools
Air fryer (at least 5-6 quart capacity is ideal for this recipe)
6-inch round cake pan (or any pan that fits your air fryer basket)
Hand or stand mixer
Mixing bowls
Whisk or spoon for stirring
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Air Fryer
Before diving into mixing the cake batter, the first thing you’ll want to do is preheat your air fryer. This step ensures that your air fryer is at the correct temperature for a consistent baking result.
Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
Step 2: Grease the Cake Pan
You’ll need to grease the cake pan to ensure the cake comes out easily after baking. Use vegetable oil or baking spray.
Brush the inside of the cake pan with a thin layer of oil, making sure to coat the bottom and sides. You can also lightly dust with flour, or use parchment paper at the bottom of the pan to help with easy release. Set the greased pan aside.
Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter
Now that your air fryer is preheated and your cake pan is greased, it’s time to mix the cake batter.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally.
Once the butter and sugar are creamy, add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add in the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
Gradually add in the flour mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
If you’re adding lemon zest for extra flavor, now is the time to stir it in.
Step 4: Pour the Batter into the Pan
Once the batter is well mixed and smooth, pour it into your prepared cake pan.
Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly, making sure it fills the pan in a uniform layer.
Step 5: Air Fry the Cake
With the cake batter ready and the pan in place, it’s time to air fry.
Place the cake pan carefully into the air fryer basket. Ensure that the pan is sitting level and won’t slide around while the air fryer is in motion.
Air fry the cake at 320°F (160°C) for 18-22 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or cake tester into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is ready. If there is batter on the toothpick, continue cooking for a few more minutes and check again.
Every air fryer model is slightly different, so the first time you make this cake, check the doneness after 18 minutes. If you notice any uneven baking or if the top is browning too quickly, you can cover the cake with a piece of aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while the cake continues to cook.
Step 6: Cool the Cake
Once your cake is baked through, carefully remove the pan from the air fryer basket. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 5-10 minutes.
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