Craving something sweet but don’t want to go through the hassle of preheating an oven and waiting for a traditional cake to bake?
Enter the air fryer cake—a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying solution. In just five minutes, you can enjoy a fresh, warm slice of cake with
minimal effort. Perfect for small gatherings or last-minute treats, this air fryer cake recipe is sure to become your go-to dessert hack.
Ingredients
To get started, you’ll need a few basic ingredients:
- Four tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- Four tablespoons of sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- Three teaspoons of milk
- One tablespoon of vegetable oil
- Half a teaspoon of vanilla extract
- One small egg or half of a large egg
Optional add-ins for customization:
- One tablespoon of cocoa powder (for a chocolate cake)
- Chopped nuts or chocolate chips
Preparing the Cake Batter
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Start by combining the dry ingredients. In a small mixing bowl, add four tablespoons of all-purpose flour, four tablespoons of sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir these ingredients together until well mixed.
Combining Wet Ingredients
Next, incorporate the wet ingredients. Add one small egg (or half of a large egg), three teaspoons of milk, one tablespoon of vegetable oil, and half a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Mix until the batter is smooth and lump-free. If you’re in the mood for a chocolate cake, now’s the time to add that tablespoon of cocoa powder.
Adding Optional Ingredients
For a bit of variety, feel free to fold in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter. This step is optional but can add a delightful twist to your cake.
Preparing the Baking Container
Greasing the Pan
Select a ramekin or a small cake pan that fits inside your air fryer. Lightly grease the pan with vegetable oil or non-stick spray. This step ensures that your cake will easily release from the pan after baking.
Pouring the Batter
Pour the cake batter into the greased pan, filling it only halfway. This allows enough room for the cake to rise as it bakes.
Baking the Cake in the Air Fryer
Preheating the Air Fryer
Before placing the cake inside, preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for about two minutes. This step helps ensure even cooking.
Cooking Time and Temperature
Place the pan with the batter into the air fryer basket. Cook at 360°F (182°C) for five to seven minutes. Start checking the cake at the five-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is done.
Serving the Cake
Cooling the Cake
Once the cake is baked to perfection, let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. This makes it easier to handle and helps it set properly.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your air fryer cake warm. For an extra treat, add a scoop of ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top. The combination of a warm cake with cool toppings can be absolutely delightful.
Conclusion
This 5-minute air fryer cake recipe is a game-changer for anyone with a sweet tooth. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to satisfy a late-night craving or impress guests with a speedy dessert, this recipe has got you covered. Give it a try and enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of baking with an air fryer!
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of flour for this recipe?
- While all-purpose flour works best, you can experiment with other types of flour. However, the texture and taste might vary.
2. What can I use as an egg substitute?
- You can use applesauce, mashed banana, or a commercial egg replacer as a substitute. Adjust the quantity to match one small egg.
3. How do I store leftover cake?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
4. Can I make this cake without an air fryer?
- Yes, you can bake it in a conventional oven at 360°F (182°C) for about 10-12 minutes. However, the convenience of the air fryer is hard to beat!
5. What other flavors can I try with this recipe?
- Feel free to experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon. You can also add fruits, spices, or even a swirl of jam for unique variations.
