Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add Wet Ingredients:
- Add the milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
Add Boiling Water:
- Gradually add the boiling water to the batter, mixing continuously. The batter will be thin, but that’s normal.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat:
- Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Cake
- Prepare the Pan:
- Lightly grease a 6-inch round cake pan that fits in your air fryer. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Pour Batter:
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan.
- Air Fry:
- Place the cake pan in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Remove the cake from the air fryer and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
- Cream Butter and Cocoa:
- In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and cocoa powder until well blended.
- Add Sugar and Milk:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the milk. Beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Add Vanilla and Salt:
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Continue to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Frost the Cake:
- Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
- Decorate (Optional):
- Decorate the cake with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries, if desired.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve:
- Slice the cake and serve with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Tips for Success:
- Check for Doneness: Cooking times can vary depending on the air fryer model. Check the cake for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time. If the toothpick comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is done.
- Pan Size: Ensure the cake pan fits in your air fryer. A 6-inch round pan works well for most air fryers, but you may need to adjust the size based on your specific model.
- Even Layer: For an even layer of frosting, use an offset spatula to spread the frosting over the cake. Chill the cake slightly before frosting to make it easier to handle.
- Flavor Variations: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the boiling water for a mocha flavor. Or, mix in chocolate chips to the batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
Enjoy your delicious air fryer chocolate cake! It’s a quick and satisfying way to indulge your chocolate cravings with minimal effort.