- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Mix well to combine.
- Cut in Butter:
- Add the chilled and cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, egg, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine and Fold:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the flour mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the raisins or currants until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Shape the Rock Cakes:
- Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out portions of the dough and shape them into rough, rock-like balls. Place them on a plate or tray.
- Grease Air Fryer Basket:
- Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil.
- Air Fry the Rock Cakes:
- Arrange the shaped rock cakes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one for even cooking.
- Cooking Time:
- Air fry at 350°F (180°C) for 12-15 minutes, until the rock cakes are golden brown on the outside and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the rock cakes from the air fryer and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee!
Tips for Success
- Texture: Rock cakes should have a slightly rough and uneven texture—hence the name “rock” cakes. Avoid overhandling the dough to maintain this characteristic.
- Variations: Feel free to customize with your favorite dried fruits or add a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top before air frying for extra sweetness and texture.
- Storage: Store leftover rock cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Tea time: Enjoy as a traditional British tea-time treat with clotted cream and jam.
- Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert option.
Conclusion
Enjoy your Air Fryer Rock Cakes—a simple and comforting treat that’s perfect for any time of day. The air fryer method ensures a quick and even bake, resulting in deliciously crispy yet tender cakes. Visit our site for more exclusive recipes and culinary inspirations to elevate your cooking adventures.