Can You Bake a Cake in an Air Fryer The Surprising Answer

Yes, you can bake a cake in an air fryer—and it’s a game-changer for quick, moist results with minimal effort. With the right pan and temperature adjustments, your air fryer delivers evenly baked cakes in half the time of a conventional oven.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can bake cakes in an air fryer with proper adjustments.
• Use oven-safe pans to fit the air fryer basket safely.
• Reduce temperature by 25°F to prevent over-browning or drying.
• Check doneness early as air fryers cook faster than ovens.
• Ideal for small batches—perfect for 1-2 servings or mini cakes.
• No preheating needed for most air fryer cake recipes—save time!
• Clean up is easy with non-stick or parchment-lined containers.

Can You Bake a Cake in an Air Fryer? The Surprising Answer

For years, air fryers have been celebrated for their ability to create crispy, golden-brown foods with little to no oil. From fries and chicken wings to roasted vegetables and even hard-boiled eggs, the air fryer has revolutionized how we approach quick, convenient cooking. But as these appliances gain popularity, home cooks are pushing the boundaries of what they can do. One question that frequently arises—especially among busy bakers and dessert enthusiasts—is: can you bake a cake in an air fryer? The answer might surprise you.

The short answer is a resounding yes. Not only can you bake a cake in an air fryer, but you can do so with impressive results—moist crumb, even rise, and a perfectly set structure—all in a fraction of the time it takes in a conventional oven. Whether you’re dealing with limited kitchen space, a broken oven, or simply want to experiment with a new method, air fryer baking opens up a world of dessert possibilities. From classic vanilla sponge cakes to rich chocolate mug cakes, the compact convection environment of an air fryer offers a unique twist on traditional baking. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the science behind air fryer baking, the types of cakes that work best, essential tips and tricks, and even some delicious recipes to get you started. By the end, you’ll not only know if you can bake a cake in an air fryer, but how to do it like a pro.

How Air Fryers Work: The Science Behind Baking Cakes

Convection Cooking at Its Core

To understand why air fryers can bake cakes, it’s essential to grasp how they function. Unlike traditional ovens that rely on radiant heat from heating elements, air fryers use rapid air circulation powered by a high-speed fan and a heating element. This process, known as convection cooking, circulates hot air around the food at high velocity, ensuring even and consistent heating from all angles. In the case of baking, this means your cake batter is exposed to a steady, uniform temperature, which helps prevent hot spots and undercooked centers.

The air fryer’s compact size also plays a key role. Because the cooking chamber is small, heat is more efficiently distributed, and temperature recovery after opening the basket is faster. This creates a stable environment that mimics a convection oven—ideal for delicate baked goods like cakes. However, unlike a full-sized oven, the air fryer heats up almost instantly, reducing preheating time to just 2–3 minutes in most models. This is a game-changer for last-minute dessert cravings.

Temperature and Airflow: Key Factors for Success

When baking a cake in an air fryer, temperature and airflow are critical. Most air fryers operate between 175°F and 400°F (80°C–200°C), with many allowing precise 5°F increments. For cake baking, the ideal range is typically between 320°F and 350°F (160°C–175°C). This lower temperature compared to traditional baking (which often starts at 350°F–375°F) is necessary because the air fryer’s intense airflow can cause the outside of the cake to brown too quickly if the heat is too high.

Airflow, while beneficial for crispiness, can be a double-edged sword for cakes. Too much direct air hitting the surface may cause cracking or uneven rising. That’s why many bakers recommend using a lightly greased cake pan and covering the top loosely with aluminum foil after the first 10–12 minutes of baking. This shields the top from excessive air exposure, allowing the center to catch up and preventing a dry, over-browned crust.

Size and Shape Matter

Air fryers come in various sizes, typically ranging from 3 to 6 quarts. For cake baking, a 5-quart or larger model is ideal. Smaller units may not accommodate standard cake pans, and overcrowding can restrict airflow, leading to uneven baking. Additionally, the shape of the cake pan is crucial. Round or oval pans work best because they allow air to flow evenly around the cake. Avoid square or rectangular pans unless your air fryer basket is specifically designed to accommodate them.

Pro tip: Always leave at least 1 inch of space between the top of the cake batter and the air fryer basket’s heating element. This prevents the cake from touching the heating coil and burning, which can happen in models with top-mounted elements.

Types of Cakes That Work Best in an Air Fryer

Classic Sponge and Vanilla Cakes

Light, fluffy sponge cakes and vanilla cakes are among the most successful candidates for air fryer baking. Their delicate structure benefits from the even heat distribution, and their simple flavor profile makes them ideal for testing your technique. A standard 6-inch vanilla cake can bake in just 20–25 minutes at 325°F (163°C), depending on the model. For best results, use a springform pan or a heat-resistant silicone mold that fits snugly in your air fryer basket.

Example recipe: Air Fryer Vanilla Mug Cake
– 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1/4 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
– 3 tbsp milk
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Mix in a microwave-safe mug, then transfer to a small silicone mold. Bake at 325°F for 12–15 minutes. Insert a toothpick—if it comes out clean, it’s done.

Chocolate Cakes and Brownie-Style Desserts

Rich, dense chocolate cakes and brownies thrive in the air fryer. The moist, fudgy texture is enhanced by the gentle convection heat, which prevents the edges from drying out. Chocolate mug cakes are particularly popular and can be ready in under 10 minutes. Use high-quality cocoa powder and avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.

Tip: For a gooey center, slightly underbake by 1–2 minutes. The residual heat will continue to cook the cake after removal from the air fryer.

Fruit-Based Cakes (Lemon, Blueberry, Banana)

Fruit-infused cakes like lemon drizzle, blueberry muffin cakes, or banana bread are excellent choices. The air fryer helps caramelize the fruit slightly while keeping the interior moist. For banana bread, use a loaf-shaped silicone mold or a small metal loaf pan. Bake at 320°F for 25–30 minutes. The natural sugars in the fruit help with browning without requiring extra sugar or oil.

Bonus: You can layer fresh berries on top before baking—just press them gently into the batter to prevent them from burning.

Mug Cakes and Individual Portions

One of the biggest advantages of air fryer baking is the ability to make single-serving desserts quickly. Mug cakes are perfect for this—mix ingredients in a heat-safe mug, transfer to a silicone cup, and bake. These are ideal for late-night cravings, office treats, or portion control. Try a strawberry shortcake mug cake or peanut butter chocolate mug cake for a fun twist.

Cakes to Avoid or Modify

Not all cakes are air fryer-friendly. Avoid very large cakes (8-inch or bigger) unless you have a large air fryer (7+ quarts). Also, avoid recipes with high sugar or fat content that may caramelize too quickly and burn. Angel food cakes and chiffon cakes, which rely on whipped egg whites for structure, may collapse due to the air fryer’s intense airflow. For these, stick to traditional ovens.

Essential Tips and Tricks for Air Fryer Cake Baking

Choosing the Right Pan or Mold

The pan you use is critical. Avoid non-stick metal pans if your air fryer has a non-stick coating on the basket—scraping can damage the surface. Instead, opt for:

• Heat-resistant silicone molds (best for easy release)
• Small springform pans (ideal for layered cakes)
• Metal loaf or cake pans (ensure they’re oven-safe and fit in the basket)
• Oven-safe glass or ceramic ramekins (for mug cakes)

Always pre-grease the pan with butter, oil, or non-stick spray, and consider lining the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Temperature Adjustments and Baking Times

As a general rule, reduce the temperature by 25°F from what a traditional oven recipe calls for. For example, if a cake normally bakes at 350°F, set your air fryer to 325°F. Baking time is typically 30–50% shorter. Start checking for doneness at 70% of the original time. Use the toothpick test: insert into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done.

Example: A 9-inch cake that takes 30 minutes in an oven may take only 18–22 minutes in an air fryer. But always monitor closely—air fryers vary by model.

Preheating and Positioning

Preheat your air fryer for 2–3 minutes before adding the cake. This ensures a consistent start temperature. Place the cake pan in the center of the basket, ensuring it’s level. If your air fryer has a rack, use the middle or lower position. Avoid stacking multiple cakes unless the manufacturer confirms it’s safe.

Covering the Cake to Prevent Over-Browning

As mentioned earlier, covering the cake with foil after the first 10–12 minutes is a game-changer. Loosely tent a small piece of aluminum foil over the top, securing it with a toothpick if needed. This allows the center to bake evenly without the top turning into a hard crust. Remove the foil for the final 2–3 minutes if you want a slightly golden top.

Cooling and Releasing the Cake

Never attempt to remove the cake immediately after baking. Let it cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes to set, then gently run a knife around the edges and transfer to a wire rack. Silicone molds make this step effortless—just pop the cake out like a cupcake.

Cleaning and Maintenance

After baking, allow the air fryer to cool completely before cleaning. Remove the basket and wash it with warm, soapy water. If batter spills onto the heating element (rare but possible), unplug the unit and wipe it with a damp cloth—never submerge the main unit in water. Regular cleaning prevents smoke and lingering odors.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overfilling the Pan

One of the most common mistakes is filling the cake pan too high. Cakes rise during baking, and in the confined space of an air fryer, overflow can lead to a mess and uneven cooking. Fill the pan no more than 2/3 full. For mug cakes, use a 12-ounce or larger mug to allow room for expansion.

Ignoring Model Differences

Not all air fryers are created equal. Some have top-mounted heating elements, others have side or bottom elements. Some circulate air more aggressively. Consult your user manual to understand your model’s airflow pattern. Test with a small cake first to gauge how your air fryer performs.

Baking at Too High a Temperature

Setting the temperature too high is a recipe for disaster—literally. The outside will burn while the inside remains raw. Always start low and increase only if needed. If your cake browns too quickly, reduce the temperature by 10–15°F next time or cover it sooner.

Skipping the Preheat

Skipping preheating leads to inconsistent baking. The cake may take longer to set, resulting in a dense texture. Always preheat for 2–3 minutes to mimic oven conditions.

Not Adjusting for Altitude

If you live at high altitude (above 3,000 feet), you may need to adjust your recipe. Air fryers don’t eliminate altitude-related challenges like lower air pressure and faster evaporation. Increase liquid slightly (by 1–2 tbsp), reduce sugar by 1–2 tbsp, and consider adding 1/2 tsp extra baking powder for better rise.

Using the Wrong Batter Consistency

Air fryer cakes require a slightly thicker batter than oven-baked ones to withstand the airflow. If your batter is too thin, it may collapse or cook unevenly. Aim for a consistency similar to pancake batter—pourable but not runny.

Delicious Air Fryer Cake Recipes to Try

Double Chocolate Air Fryer Cake (6-inch)

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 egg
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips

Instructions: Mix dry ingredients. Add wet ingredients and stir until smooth. Fold in chocolate chips. Pour into a greased 6-inch springform pan. Air fry at 325°F for 22–25 minutes. Cool 10 minutes before removing from pan.

Blueberry Lemon Mug Cake (Single Serving)

• 4 tbsp flour
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• Zest of 1/2 lemon
• 3 tbsp milk
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1/4 cup fresh blueberries

Instructions: Mix all ingredients in a mug. Transfer to a silicone mold. Air fry at 320°F for 10–12 minutes. Top with powdered sugar or lemon glaze.

Moist Banana Bread (Loaf-Style)

• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2–3)
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 cup flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions: Combine wet ingredients. Mix in dry ingredients. Pour into a small loaf pan. Air fry at 320°F for 25–30 minutes. Cool before slicing.

Comparison Table: Air Fryer vs. Oven Baking

Factor	Air Fryer	Conventional Oven
Preheat Time	2–3 minutes	10–15 minutes
Baking Time	15–25 minutes (small cakes)	25–40 minutes
Temperature	320°F–350°F (reduce by 25°F)	350°F–375°F
Energy Use	Lower (smaller cavity)	Higher (larger cavity)
Best For	Small to medium cakes, mug cakes, quick desserts	Large cakes, multi-layered, delicate chiffon
Cleanup	Easy (removable basket)	More involved (racks, spills)

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Bake a Cake in an Air Fryer

The idea of baking a cake in an air fryer might have once seemed unconventional—but it’s now a well-tested, reliable method embraced by home bakers worldwide. With the right pan, temperature, and technique, you can achieve moist, fluffy, delicious cakes in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re making a single-serving mug cake for a midnight snack or a small celebration cake for two, the air fryer offers speed, convenience, and surprising precision.

Beyond just cakes, this method opens the door to other baked goods: cupcakes, mini cheesecakes, cinnamon rolls, and even breads. The key is to start simple, experiment with confidence, and learn from each batch. As with any cooking method, practice makes perfect. And with the air fryer’s compact size, energy efficiency, and rapid cooking times, it’s a fantastic tool for anyone short on time, space, or oven access.

So, the next time someone asks, “Can you bake a cake in an air fryer?”—you can confidently say, “Yes, and here’s how.” From science to recipes, from tips to troubleshooting, you now have everything you need to turn your air fryer into a mini bakery. Happy baking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you bake a cake in an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake a cake in an air fryer! The compact, convection-based cooking environment circulates hot air evenly, making it possible to bake small cakes or cupcakes in under 30 minutes.

What type of cake works best in an air fryer?

Light and fluffy cakes like sponge, vanilla, or banana bread work best due to the air fryer’s rapid, even heat. Dense cakes may need adjusted cooking times to avoid over-baking the outside.

How do you adjust baking time when using an air fryer?

Reduce conventional oven time by 20–25% and start checking doneness 5–10 minutes early. Air fryers cook faster, so use a toothpick to test the center for moist crumbs.

Can you bake a cake in an air fryer without a special pan?

You can use any oven-safe container like a metal or silicone cake pan that fits. Just ensure there’s 1–2 inches of clearance from the heating element to avoid burning.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer for cake?

Yes, preheating for 3–5 minutes ensures even baking. Skipping this step may lead to uneven texture or undercooked centers, especially for delicate batters.

What temperature should I use to bake a cake in an air fryer?

Most cakes bake well at 320–350°F (160–175°C). Lower than a conventional oven to account for the air fryer’s intense heat circulation and prevent over-browning.