Can Cake Tins Go in Air Fryer Find Out Here

Yes, cake tins can go in an air fryer—but only if they’re heat-safe and fit properly. Always choose metal, ceramic, or silicone pans that match your air fryer’s basket size and don’t exceed the recommended temperature. Never use non-stick pans with damaged coatings or materials like plastic and glass, which can melt or shatter.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, cake tins can go in air fryers if they’re heat-safe and fit properly.
• Use metal or silicone tins—avoid plastic or non-air-fryer-safe materials.
• Check size limits to ensure even cooking and proper air circulation.
• Grease tins well to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup post-baking.
• Monitor cooking times—air fryers often bake faster than ovens.
• Always preheat if required for consistent, reliable results every time.

Can Cake Tins Go in Air Fryer? Find Out Here

Let’s face it – the air fryer has taken over our kitchens. It’s no longer just for crispy fries and reheating leftovers. Now, we’re baking cookies, roasting veggies, and even making mini pizzas in it. So naturally, the question pops up: can cake tins go in air fryer? You’ve got that cute little round tin or maybe a silicone loaf pan, and you’re eyeing your air fryer like, “Could we make this work?” I’ve been there. I remember the first time I tried baking a mug cake in my air fryer using a small metal tin. The result? A slightly overcooked outside, a gooey center, and a moment of panic when I realized I didn’t know if the tin was even safe to use.

That’s why I’m writing this – to save you from the same trial-and-error chaos. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer pro or just starting out, understanding what you can (and can’t) put inside your machine is key. Not only does it affect the quality of your baked goods, but it also keeps your appliance safe and your kitchen free from smoke or worse – melted plastic. So, let’s dive into the real deal about cake tins and air fryers. We’ll cover materials, sizes, recipes, safety tips, and even some surprising hacks you might not have thought of. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to use your cake tin in your air fryer – and when it’s better to skip it.

Understanding Air Fryer Basics: Heat, Airflow, and Materials

Before we get into whether can cake tins go in air fryer, let’s get a grip on how air fryers actually work. Unlike traditional ovens that use radiant heat from the top and bottom, air fryers use rapid hot air circulation. A heating element warms the air, and a powerful fan pushes it around the food at high speed. This creates that crispy, golden exterior we love – but it also means airflow is everything.

How Air Fryer Heating Works

Air fryers heat food from all sides. That’s why you get even browning on fries or chicken wings. But when you place a cake tin inside, it disrupts that airflow. The tin acts like a shield, trapping heat in some areas and blocking airflow in others. This can lead to uneven baking – think burnt edges and a raw center. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it means you need to adjust your approach.

For example, I once tried baking a vanilla sponge cake in a standard 6-inch metal tin. I set it for 180°C (350°F), the same as my oven recipe. But because the air fryer heats faster and more intensely, the outside browned in 12 minutes, while the inside was still liquid. I had to pull it out, let it cool, and re-bake it in the oven. Not ideal.

Material Matters: What Can Handle the Heat?

Not all cake tins are created equal when it comes to air fryers. The material determines whether it’s safe, effective, and durable. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Metal (Aluminum, Steel, Cast Iron): Most air fryers are designed with metal baskets, so metal tins are generally safe. They conduct heat well and can withstand high temperatures. Just make sure it’s oven-safe (usually labeled 230°C/450°F or higher).
• Silicone: A favorite for air fryer bakers! Silicone is flexible, non-stick, and heat-resistant up to about 230°C (450°F). It also lets hot air circulate more freely since it’s lightweight and doesn’t block airflow as much as metal.
• Glass (Pyrex, Borosilicate): Technically oven-safe, but risky in air fryers. The rapid temperature changes can cause glass to crack or shatter. I’ve heard horror stories – and I’ve had a close call myself when I placed a cold glass dish into a preheated air fryer. The dish cracked, and I had to clean up tiny shards. Not fun.
• Non-stick Coated Metal: Okay, but check the coating. Some non-stick finishes degrade at high heat or can release fumes. Stick to high-quality, PFOA-free coatings.
• Disposable Aluminum Pans: Yes, these work! I’ve used them for mini quiches and cupcakes. They’re lightweight and cheap, but they can dent or warp. Also, make sure they’re not too tall – they can block the fan.

Bottom line: Stick to oven-safe metal or food-grade silicone for best results. And always preheat your air fryer – it helps avoid sudden temperature shocks.

Can Cake Tins Go in Air Fryer? The Verdict by Type

Now, let’s get specific. The answer to can cake tins go in air fryer isn’t a simple yes or no – it depends on the type of tin. Here’s the breakdown, with real-world examples from my own kitchen.

Round Metal Cake Pans (6-8 inch)

Yes, you can use them – but with caveats. I’ve baked a 7-inch vanilla sponge in a standard aluminum round pan. The key? Reduce the temperature by 15-20°C (25-30°F) and increase cooking time slightly. I set my air fryer to 160°C (325°F) instead of 180°C (350°F) and baked for 22 minutes. I also placed a piece of parchment paper at the bottom to prevent sticking and help with even heat distribution.

Pro tip: If your air fryer basket is small, the pan might block the fan. Try using a smaller 6-inch pan or a springform pan (which has a removable base and better airflow).

Loaf Pans (Metal or Silicone)

Absolutely! I’ve made banana bread and lemon loaf using a 9×5-inch metal loaf pan. The results were fantastic – moist inside, slightly crisp top. But again, I adjusted the recipe: reduced temp to 165°C (330°F), baked for 30 minutes, then checked with a toothpick. I also covered the top with foil halfway through to prevent over-browning.

For silicone loaf molds, even better. I use a 7-inch silicone loaf pan, and it fits perfectly in my 5.8-quart air fryer. No sticking, easy removal, and faster cooking – about 25 minutes at 160°C (325°F).

Springform Pans

Great for cheesecakes and layered cakes. I made a mini cheesecake in a 6-inch springform pan. The removable base helped with airflow, and the cake set evenly. Just make sure the pan is oven-safe and doesn’t have plastic parts (some have plastic clips).

Silicone Molds and Mini Pans

These are air fryer heroes. I’ve used silicone muffin cups, mini bundt molds, and even heart-shaped cake pans. They’re lightweight, flexible, and let hot air circulate freely. I once made chocolate lava cakes in silicone cups – 15 minutes at 170°C (340°F), and they came out perfectly gooey in the center.

One thing: Silicone doesn’t hold its shape well when empty. So, I place the filled mold on a metal baking sheet or trivet before putting it in the air fryer. This keeps it steady and prevents spills.

Non-Oven-Safe or Plastic Tins

Hard no. Plastic melts, warps, or releases harmful fumes. Even “heat-resistant” plastic can’t handle the intense heat and airflow of an air fryer. I tried using a plastic mini cake mold once – it started to bubble and smoke after 3 minutes. I pulled it out fast, but the smell lingered for days. Never again.

Best Practices for Baking with Cake Tins in Air Fryers

Using cake tins in air fryers isn’t just about tossing them in and hitting start. There are a few golden rules to follow for consistent, delicious results.

Adjust Temperature and Time

Air fryers are faster and hotter than ovens. A general rule: reduce the temperature by 15-20°C (25-30°F) and check for doneness 5-10 minutes earlier than the recipe suggests. For example, if your oven recipe says 180°C (350°F) for 25 minutes, try 160°C (325°F) and check at 18 minutes.

I keep a little notebook with adjusted times for my favorite recipes. It’s saved me from many overcooked cakes.

Use Parchment Paper or Liners

Even if your tin is non-stick, use parchment paper or silicone liners. It prevents sticking, makes cleanup easier, and helps with heat distribution. I cut a circle to fit the bottom of my metal pan, or use pre-cut liners for silicone molds.

Bonus: Parchment paper can also help protect the tin from direct contact with the heating element, especially in smaller air fryers.

Check for Airflow

Make sure your cake tin doesn’t block the air fryer’s fan. If the tin is too tall or wide, it can restrict airflow and cause uneven cooking. I measure my tin against the basket before filling it. If it’s close, I might rotate the tin halfway through or use a smaller pan.

For larger cakes, I sometimes bake them in batches or use mini pans to ensure even heat exposure.

Don’t Overfill the Tin

Air fryers work best when there’s space for air to circulate. Fill your cake tin only 2/3 full. This gives the batter room to rise and prevents overflow. I learned this the hard way when I filled a loaf pan to the top – the batter spilled over and stuck to the basket. Took me 30 minutes to clean.

Preheat and Monitor

Always preheat your air fryer for 3-5 minutes. This helps the cake start cooking evenly. Then, check on it every 5-7 minutes. Use a toothpick or cake tester to check for doneness. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done.

I also like to lightly press the top – if it springs back, it’s ready. If it leaves a dent, give it another minute or two.

Recipes and Ideas: What You Can Bake in Cake Tins

Now that you know the rules, let’s talk fun stuff – what you can actually bake! The air fryer isn’t just for small cakes. With the right tin and technique, you can make a variety of desserts and even savory treats.

Mini Vanilla Sponge Cake (6-inch metal pan)

• Preheat air fryer to 160°C (325°F).
• Grease pan, line bottom with parchment.
• Pour in batter (fill 2/3 full).
• Bake 20-22 minutes. Check with toothpick.
• Let cool 10 minutes before removing.

Pro tip: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a bright flavor.

Chocolate Mug Cake (silicone mug mold)

• Mix 2 tbsp flour, 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp cocoa, 1/4 tsp baking powder, 3 tbsp milk, 1 tbsp oil, 1 egg.
• Pour into silicone mug mold.
• Bake at 170°C (340°F) for 12-14 minutes.
• Top with whipped cream or chocolate chips.

Banana Bread (silicone loaf pan)

• Use a 7-inch silicone pan.
• Preheat to 165°C (330°F).
• Bake 25-30 minutes, cover with foil after 20 minutes.
• Let cool 15 minutes before slicing.

Cheesecake Bites (silicone cupcake molds)

• Press graham cracker crust into each mold.
• Fill with cheesecake batter (cream cheese, sugar, egg, vanilla).
• Bake at 150°C (300°F) for 15 minutes.
• Chill for 2 hours before serving.

You can even make mini quiches, cornbread, or savory muffins using the same principles. Just adjust the ingredients and seasonings.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. Here are the most common mistakes I’ve made (and seen others make) when using cake tins in air fryers – and how to fix them.

Overcooking Due to High Heat

Air fryers heat up fast. If you don’t lower the temperature, your cake will burn on the outside before the inside is done. Always reduce the temp by 15-20°C (25-30°F) and start checking early.

Using Non-Oven-Safe Tins

Plastic, melamine, or low-quality metal can warp, melt, or release toxins. Stick to oven-safe metal or food-grade silicone. When in doubt, check the manufacturer’s label.

Ignoring Airflow

If your tin blocks the fan, heat won’t circulate properly. Use smaller tins, rotate halfway, or bake in batches. I once tried a 9-inch pan in a 4-quart air fryer – it barely fit and blocked the fan. The cake cooked unevenly. Now I stick to 6-7 inch pans max.

Skipping Preheating

Preheating ensures even cooking from the start. Skip it, and your cake might be raw in the center. I preheat for 3-5 minutes, then add the tin.

Forgetting to Check Doneness

Don’t rely on the timer alone. Air fryers vary in power and heat distribution. Use a toothpick, cake tester, or the press test to confirm it’s done.

Cleaning the Tin Too Soon

Let the cake cool in the tin for 10-15 minutes before removing. This helps it set and prevents breakage. I once tried to pop a cake out right away – it crumbled into pieces. Learned my lesson.

Data Table: Recommended Cake Tins for Air Fryers

Type	Material	Max Temp	Best For	Air Fryer Safe?
6-inch Round Pan	Aluminum	230°C (450°F)	Vanilla, chocolate cakes	Yes
7-inch Silicone Loaf Pan	Food-Grade Silicone	230°C (450°F)	Banana bread, lemon loaf	Yes
6-inch Springform Pan	Metal (Oven-Safe)	230°C (450°F)	Cheesecakes, layered cakes	Yes
Silicone Muffin Cups	Silicone	230°C (450°F)	Muffins, cupcakes, lava cakes	Yes
Disposable Aluminum Pan	Aluminum	200°C (390°F)	Mini quiches, cupcakes	Yes (short-term)
Glass Pie Dish	Pyrex	230°C (450°F)	Quiches, tarts	Not recommended (risk of cracking)
Plastic Cake Mold	Plastic	120°C (250°F)	Decorative molds	No (melts)

Remember, the key to success is matching the right tin to your air fryer’s size and power. And always, always test one batch before making a big batch for guests.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can – With the Right Approach

So, can cake tins go in air fryer? Absolutely – if you choose the right tin and follow a few simple rules. Metal and silicone tins are your best friends. Avoid glass and plastic. Adjust your temperature, preheat, and check doneness early. And don’t be afraid to experiment with mini versions of your favorite desserts.

I’ve baked everything from chocolate chip cookies to savory cornbread using cake tins in my air fryer, and most of the time, it’s been a success. The results are moist, flavorful, and ready in half the time of a conventional oven. Plus, there’s something satisfying about pulling a perfectly baked mini cake out of that little basket.

Just remember: every air fryer is different. Your friend’s 6-quart model might handle a 7-inch pan better than your 4-quart one. So, start small, learn your machine’s quirks, and don’t get discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Baking is as much about the process as it is about the result.

Now, go grab that cake tin, preheat your air fryer, and make something delicious. And when someone asks, “Can cake tins go in air fryer?” – you’ll know exactly what to say.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cake tins go in an air fryer safely?

Yes, most metal, silicone, or oven-safe glass cake tins can go in an air fryer as long as they fit without touching the heating element. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for heat resistance and air fryer compatibility.

What type of cake tin is best for an air fryer?

Lightweight metal or silicone cake tins work best in an air fryer due to their even heat distribution and flexibility. Avoid heavy ceramic or non-heat-resistant plastics that may crack or melt.

Can I use a regular cake tin in an air fryer for baking?

Yes, you can use a regular cake tin in an air fryer if it’s labeled oven-safe and fits with at least 1-2 inches of clearance around the sides. The keyword here is “oven-safe”—this ensures it won’t warp or release harmful chemicals.

Do cake tins affect cooking time in an air fryer?

Yes, dense or dark metal tins may absorb heat faster, potentially reducing cooking time slightly. Monitor your cake closely and adjust time or temperature as needed for even baking.

Can cake tins with handles go in an air fryer?

Only if the handles are heat-safe (e.g., metal or silicone) and don’t obstruct airflow. Plastic or wooden handles may melt or catch fire, so it’s best to use tins without non-metal handles.

How do I prevent a cake tin from sticking in an air fryer?

Grease the cake tin with butter, oil, or non-stick spray, and line it with parchment paper if needed. Silicone tins are naturally non-stick and ideal for air fryer baking.