Air Fryer Vanilla Cake

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.

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

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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.

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

1. After cooling slightly, run a knife around the edge of the cake to help loosen it from the sides of the pan.
2. Flip the cake out onto a wire rack to finish cooling completely. This step is crucial because if you frost the cake while it’s still warm, the frosting might melt and slide off.

Step 7: Optional – Make the Frosting

If you want to add a sweet touch, frosting the cake will enhance the flavor and texture.

1. Beat the softened butter with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, and continue mixing until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
3. If you prefer a thicker frosting, reduce the milk and continue to beat until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

Step 8: Frost the Cake

Once the cake has completely cooled, it’s time to frost it.

1. Spread a thin layer of frosting on the top and sides of the cake using a spatula.
2. If desired, decorate the cake with sprinkles, edible flowers, or any other decoration you like.

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Notes & Tips

• Air Fryer Variability: Different air fryers can cook at slightly different temperatures, so your cake may require more or less time. It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking and check for doneness with a toothpick.
• Cake Pan Size: If you don’t have a 6-inch round cake pan, you can use other pans that fit your air fryer basket. Make sure the pan is not too large or too small to allow the cake to cook evenly.
• Flavor Variations: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding different flavors. Try adding cocoa powder to make a chocolate version or almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique twist.
• Frosting Tips: If you’re looking for a lighter frosting, you can use whipped cream or cream cheese frosting instead of buttercream. A cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with this vanilla cake if you want a tangy-sweet contrast.
• Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container. The cake can stay fresh for 3-4 days at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Make It Dairy-Free: If you prefer a dairy-free version, swap the butter for non-dairy margarine and use plant-based milk (such as almond milk or oat milk). The cake will still be moist and delicious!

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Conclusion

This air fryer vanilla cake is a great option for anyone looking to bake a simple yet delightful dessert. It’s an easy recipe with common ingredients and can be customized to your liking. By following the instructions and temperature guidelines carefully, you’ll achieve a cake that’s moist, fluffy, and perfectly baked in your air fryer. Whether you choose to enjoy it plain or with frosting, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Happy baking!