Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pan
- Grease the Pan: Lightly grease your cake pan with butter or cooking spray to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or whisk to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Air Fry the Cake
- Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Air Fry: Place the cake pan in the preheated air fryer. Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 25-30 minutes. Check the cake’s doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready.
- Cool: Carefully remove the cake pan 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: Make the Frosting (Optional)
- Cream Butter: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until incorporated.
- Add Vanilla and Milk: Mix in the vanilla extract. Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired frosting consistency.
Step 5: Frost and Serve
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top and sides.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy your air fryer cake!
Tips and Tricks
- Pan Size: Ensure your cake pan fits comfortably in your air fryer basket, allowing some space around the edges for air circulation.
- Even Cooking: If the top of your cake starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Flavor Variations: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolate cake, or fold in some fresh berries for a fruity twist.
Conclusion
Baking a cake in an air fryer is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. With this simple recipe, you can create a fluffy, moist cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Experiment with different flavors and frostings to make it your own, and enjoy the delicious results of your air fryer baking adventure!