Can Cake Be Made in Air Fryer Discover the Perfect Recipe

Yes, you can make delicious, fluffy cake in an air fryer—it’s faster, more energy-efficient, and delivers perfectly moist results every time. With the right recipe and a few simple tips, your air fryer transforms into a compact oven ideal for single-serve desserts or small-batch baking without heating up your kitchen.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, cakes can be made in an air fryer—perfect for quick, moist results with minimal effort.
• Use oven-safe pans or silicone molds to ensure even baking and easy removal.
• Reduce temperature by 25°F compared to conventional ovens to prevent over-browning.
• Check doneness 5-10 mins early—air fryers cook faster than traditional methods.
• Grease pans thoroughly to avoid sticking, even with non-stick coatings.
• Rotate pans halfway for even baking in compact air fryer baskets.

The Air Fryer Cake Revolution: Is It Really Possible?

Imagine this: it’s a quiet Sunday morning, the smell of coffee fills the kitchen, and you’re craving something sweet—maybe a slice of warm, fluffy vanilla cake. But you don’t want to wait an hour for the oven to preheat and bake. What if I told you that your air fryer could deliver that same cake in under 30 minutes, with a golden crust and moist center? Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, it’s not. The idea of making cake in an air fryer has gone from a kitchen experiment to a full-blown trend, and for good reason.

When I first heard about baking a cake in an air fryer, I was skeptical. I mean, isn’t the air fryer just for crispy fries and chicken wings? But after trying it myself—and yes, burning a few batches—I realized this little appliance can do way more than reheat leftovers. With the right recipe, technique, and a dash of patience, you can bake a delicious cake that rivals anything from a conventional oven. So, can cake be made in air fryer? Absolutely. And in this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make it perfect.

How Does an Air Fryer Work for Baking Cake?

Understanding Air Fryer Mechanics

Before diving into recipes, it helps to understand how an air fryer actually works. Unlike a traditional oven, which relies on radiant heat from heating elements, an air fryer uses rapid air circulation. A powerful fan pushes hot air around the food at high speed, creating a convection effect. This means heat hits the cake from all sides, not just the bottom and top like in an oven.

This rapid circulation is great for browning and crispiness—ideal for fries or chicken—but can be tricky for delicate baked goods. Too much airflow, and your cake dries out. Too little, and it doesn’t cook evenly. The key is balance: controlling temperature, timing, and pan placement.

Why Cake Can (and Can’t) Work in an Air Fryer

Let’s get real: not every cake recipe will translate well to the air fryer. Dense, moist cakes like pound cake or banana bread do great. Light, fluffy sponge cakes? Not so much—unless you adjust the method. The air fryer’s compact size (typically 3.5 to 6 quarts) means you’re working with smaller pans, and the intense heat can lead to over-browning on the outside before the inside is done.

But here’s the upside: the air fryer preheats in 2-3 minutes (vs. 10-15 in an oven), cooks faster, and uses less energy. Plus, it’s perfect for single servings or small households. Think of it as a mini convection oven—not a full replacement, but a powerful tool when used right.

Common Air Fryer Cake Challenges (and How to Fix Them)

• Over-browning: Use aluminum foil to tent the cake after the first 10 minutes.
• Dry texture: Reduce cooking time by 20% compared to oven recipes and check doneness early.
• Uneven baking: Rotate the pan halfway through cooking if your air fryer has hot spots.
• Sticking: Grease the pan well and use parchment paper liners.

Pro tip: Invest in a small oven-safe pan (6-7 inches) or silicone molds designed for air fryers. They’re game-changers for even baking.

The Best Cakes to Make in an Air Fryer (With Examples)

1. Classic Vanilla Cake (Small Batch)

This is my go-to for testing new air fryers. It’s simple, forgiving, and delicious. Here’s how I make it:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Steps:
1. Preheat air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for 3 minutes.
2. Mix dry ingredients. In another bowl, whisk wet ingredients.
3. Combine until just mixed (don’t overmix!).
4. Pour into a greased 6-inch pan. Tap gently to remove air bubbles.
5. Air fry for 22-25 minutes. Insert a toothpick—if it comes out clean, it’s done.
6. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pan.

Result: A tender, golden cake with a slightly crisp top. Perfect with a dusting of powdered sugar or fresh berries.

2. Chocolate Mug Cake (5-Minute Wonder)

Need dessert in a flash? This one’s for you. I made this during a late-night craving, and it was ready before I found my favorite spoon.

• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 3 tbsp milk
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 egg yolk (optional, for richness)

Steps:
1. Mix all ingredients in a microwave-safe mug or small ramekin.
2. Place in air fryer basket.
3. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes.
4. Top with chocolate chips while warm.

Note: The center will be fudgy—like a brownie. For a lighter texture, add an extra tbsp of milk.

3. Lemon Blueberry Loaf (Fruity & Moist)

This is my favorite for breakfast or brunch. The air fryer gives it a lovely crust while keeping the inside juicy.

• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/3 cup oil
• 1 large egg
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup fresh blueberries

Steps:
1. Preheat to 325°F (165°C).
2. Mix dry ingredients. Whisk wet ingredients separately.
3. Fold in blueberries gently.
4. Bake in a 6-inch loaf pan for 28-32 minutes.
5. Cool before slicing.

Pro tip: Toss blueberries in 1 tsp flour before adding to prevent sinking.

4. Gluten-Free Banana Cake (Healthy Twist)

I made this for a friend with celiac disease, and it was a hit. The air fryer keeps it moist without gummy texture.

• 1 cup gluten-free flour blend
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup oil
• 2 ripe bananas (mashed)
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup almond milk

Steps:
1. Preheat to 330°F (165°C).
2. Mix all ingredients until smooth.
3. Bake in a greased pan for 25-28 minutes.
4. Let cool completely before slicing.

Essential Tips for Air Fryer Cake Success

Choose the Right Pan (It’s Crucial!)

Not all pans are created equal. Here’s what works best:

• Metal pans: Conduct heat evenly but can stick. Always grease + line with parchment.
• Silicone molds: Non-stick and flexible, but may need extra support in the basket.
• Oven-safe glass: Great for visibility but heats slower. Add 2-3 minutes to cook time.

My pick: A 6-inch aluminum cake pan with parchment. It fits most air fryers and browns beautifully.

Master Temperature and Time

Air fryers vary widely. My Philips preheats to 350°F in 2 minutes; my friend’s Cosori takes 4. Always:

• Preheat for 2-3 minutes (unless recipe says otherwise).
• Reduce oven temperature by 25°F when converting recipes.
• Check doneness 3-5 minutes before suggested time.

Example: A recipe calling for 350°F oven → 325°F air fryer. 30-minute bake → start checking at 22 minutes.

Don’t Skip the Foil Tent

This saved my last chocolate cake. After the first 10 minutes, I covered it with foil to prevent the top from burning while the center finished cooking. No more charcoal crusts!

Rotate for Even Baking

Most air fryers have hot spots near the heating element. If your cake is browning too fast on one side, pause and rotate the pan 180 degrees halfway through.

Cooling Matters

Air fryer cakes are delicate. Let them cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This prevents crumbling—especially with mug cakes.

Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Overmixing the Batter

I learned this the hard way. One time, I whisked my vanilla cake batter for 5 minutes, thinking it needed to be smooth. Result? A dense, chewy mess. Overmixing develops gluten, which makes cakes tough. Stop mixing as soon as ingredients are combined.

Ignoring Altitude

If you live above 3,000 feet, you’ll need adjustments. At high altitudes, air is thinner, so liquids evaporate faster. Try:

• Reducing baking powder by 1/4 tsp per tsp.
• Adding 2-4 tbsp extra liquid.
• Increasing temperature by 15-25°F.

Using the Wrong Oil

Not all oils handle high heat well. I once used olive oil in a chocolate cake—it was bitter! Stick to neutral oils like canola, vegetable, or sunflower. Coconut oil works too (adds a subtle flavor).

Not Testing Your Air Fryer

Every air fryer cooks differently. Do a test run with a simple cake to learn your appliance’s quirks. My Cosori runs 10°F hotter than the dial says. Yours might too.

Forgetting to Grease

Even non-stick pans need greasing. I use a pastry brush with melted butter, then dust with flour. For silicone molds, a quick spray works.

Data: Air Fryer vs. Oven Baking Comparison

Factor	Air Fryer	Conventional Oven
Preheat Time	2-3 minutes	10-15 minutes
Cook Time (6-inch cake)	20-30 minutes	35-45 minutes
Energy Use	Low (uses ~800-1500W)	High (uses ~2000-5000W)
Even Baking	Good (with rotation)	Excellent
Moisture Retention	Moderate (use foil)	High
Batch Size	Small (1-2 servings)	Large (8-12 servings)
Cleanup	Easy (dishwasher-safe basket)	Moderate (requires scrubbing)

Note: Air fryer results vary by model. Data based on average 5-quart basket-style air fryers and standard 30-inch ovens.

Conclusion: Should You Bake Cake in Your Air Fryer?

So, can cake be made in air fryer? 100% yes—but with a caveat. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. If you’re baking a towering wedding cake or a dozen cupcakes for a party, stick to the oven. But for quick, single-serving desserts, small batches, or when you’re short on time? The air fryer is a total game-changer.

I’ve used mine to make everything from birthday cakes (yes, really!) to last-minute date-night treats. The key is embracing its limitations: smaller size, faster cooking, and the need for careful monitoring. But once you master the technique, the rewards are huge. Less waiting, less energy, and—most importantly—delicious, moist cake in under 30 minutes.

My advice? Start simple. Try that vanilla cake or mug cake recipe. Experiment with foil tents and rotation. And don’t get discouraged by a few flops (we’ve all had them). With a little practice, you’ll discover that your air fryer isn’t just a crispy-food machine. It’s a baking tool—one that might just become your new kitchen MVP.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a chocolate mug cake calling my name. Happy baking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cake be made in an air fryer?

Yes, absolutely! Air fryers can bake cakes quickly and evenly, making them a great alternative to traditional ovens. Just adjust cooking time and temperature for best results.

What type of cake can you make in an air fryer?

You can make various cakes, including sponge, chocolate, banana, and even mug cakes, in an air fryer. Light, fluffy textures work best with this method.

How do you adjust cake recipes for an air fryer?

Reduce the temperature by 25°F (typically to 325°F) and check for doneness 5–10 minutes earlier than the recipe suggests. Use a smaller pan to fit the air fryer basket.

Can cake be made in air fryer without a baking pan?

Yes, you can use oven-safe silicone molds, ramekins, or even a greased heatproof bowl. Avoid materials that aren’t air fryer-safe, like plastic or thin aluminum.

How long does it take to bake a cake in an air fryer?

Most air fryer cakes take 15–25 minutes, depending on size and batter density. Always check with a toothpick to ensure it comes out clean.

Why make a cake in an air fryer instead of an oven?

Air fryers preheat faster, use less energy, and create a perfectly moist, evenly baked cake. They’re ideal for small batches or hot kitchens.