The Ultimate Guide to Making a Fluffy Air Fryer Sponge Cake

Air fryers have revolutionized the way we approach baking, offering a quick and convenient method to create delicious treats with minimal effort. One of the most delightful desserts you can whip up is a fluffy air fryer sponge cake. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to achieve a perfectly light and airy sponge cake using your air fryer.

Ingredients for a Perfect Sponge Cake

To create a soft and fluffy sponge cake, the quality and proportion of ingredients are crucial. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 large eggs (at room temperature)
100g caster sugar (superfine sugar for better texture)
100g plain flour (sifted to ensure a light batter)
1 tsp vanilla extract (for added flavor)
1 tsp baking powder (to help the cake rise)
A pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)
50g unsalted butter (melted and cooled)

Step-by-Step Process to Make Fluffy Air Fryer Sponge Cake

1. Preparing the Batter

Start by preheating your air fryer to 160°C (320°F). Grease a cake pan that fits comfortably in your air fryer, and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Beat the Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until the mixture becomes pale, thick, and creamy. This process usually takes about 8-10 minutes using an electric mixer on high speed. The mixture should double in volume and leave a ribbon-like trail when the whisk is lifted.
Fold in the Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the batter; the goal is to keep it light and airy.
Add the Vanilla and Butter: Mix in the vanilla extract and then slowly drizzle in the melted butter, folding it in gently. Ensure that the butter is evenly distributed without over-mixing the batter.

2. Air Frying the Sponge Cake

Once your batter is ready, pour it into the prepared cake pan. Give the pan a gentle tap on the counter to remove any air bubbles.

Cooking Time and Temperature: Place the cake pan into the preheated air fryer. Bake at 160°C (320°F) for 25-30 minutes. The exact time may vary depending on your air fryer model, so check the cake after 20 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.
Cooling the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the air fryer and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Enhancing Your Sponge Cake

For a simple yet elegant finish, dust the top of your sponge cake with powdered sugar. For a more indulgent treat, consider adding a layer of whipped cream and fresh berries between the layers or a drizzle of melted chocolate over the top.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Cake Not Rising Properly

Ensure that you’re using fresh baking powder and that the eggs are adequately beaten. Also, avoid over-mixing when folding in the flour.

Sponge Cake is Dense

This could be due to under-beaten eggs or over-mixing the batter. Always fold gently to maintain the batter’s airiness.

Uneven Cooking

If your cake is browning too quickly on top but is undercooked in the center, reduce the air fryer temperature slightly and extend the cooking time. You may also cover the top of the cake with aluminum foil halfway through the baking process to prevent over-browning.

Conclusion

Creating a fluffy air fryer sponge cake is a delightful experience that yields a light and airy dessert perfect for any occasion. By following these detailed steps and tips, you’ll be able to master the art of air fryer baking and enjoy a perfectly fluffy sponge cake every time.