Can I Bake a Cake in Air Fryer Discover the Surprising Answer

Yes, you can bake a cake in an air fryer—and it’s easier than you think, with faster cooking times and deliciously moist results. Perfect for small batches or quick desserts, air fryer cakes require minimal preheating and deliver evenly baked treats in under 30 minutes.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can bake cakes in most air fryers with proper settings.
• Use oven-safe pans to fit and protect your air fryer basket.
• Preheat the air fryer for consistent, even cake baking results.
• Adjust baking time—air fryers cook 20-30% faster than ovens.
• Check doneness early to avoid over-baking due to rapid heat circulation.
• Ideal for small cakes—perfect for 1-2 servings or mug cakes.

Can I Bake a Cake in Air Fryer? Discover the Surprising Answer

Have you ever found yourself craving a warm, gooey slice of chocolate cake but realized your oven is full of dinner prep—or worse, you don’t even have an oven at all? I’ve been there. It’s 8 p.m., you’re tired, and that sweet tooth won’t quit. Then it hits you: Can I bake a cake in an air fryer? Sounds wild, right? Like using a toaster to make soup. But before you roll your eyes, let me tell you—this question isn’t just a random kitchen experiment. It’s a game-changer for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or anyone who wants a quick dessert without heating up the whole house.

The idea of using an air fryer for baking might seem like a stretch. After all, we’ve spent years associating cakes with ovens—deep, spacious, evenly heated environments where batter rises into golden perfection. But air fryers are no longer just for crisping chicken wings or reheating fries. With convection-style heat and compact design, they’re quietly revolutionizing how we think about cooking—and yes, even baking cakes in an air fryer. So, can you really do it? And more importantly, does it actually work? Spoiler: The answer might surprise you.

How Air Fryers Work and Why They Can Bake Cakes

If you’re skeptical about baking a cake in an air fryer, I totally get it. I was too—until I tried it. To understand why it works, let’s break down how an air fryer actually functions. Unlike traditional ovens that rely on radiant heat from top and bottom heating elements, air fryers use rapid air circulation powered by a fan and a high-wattage heating element. This creates a convection effect, similar to a convection oven, where hot air moves around the food, cooking it faster and more evenly than standard ovens in many cases.

The Science Behind Convection Heating

Convection cooking isn’t new. Professional bakers have used convection ovens for decades because they reduce cooking time and improve browning. Air fryers bring this same principle into a smaller, more efficient space. When you place a cake pan inside, the circulating hot air surrounds the batter from all sides—top, bottom, and sides—which helps it cook uniformly. This is especially helpful for moist, dense cakes like brownies or pound cakes that need gentle, consistent heat.

Think of it like this: In a regular oven, the outside of your cake starts cooking before the center catches up. With an air fryer, the heat hits the edges and center almost simultaneously. That means less risk of burnt edges and a gooey center. It also means shorter cooking times—usually 20–40% faster than a standard oven. For example, a cake that takes 30 minutes in an oven might only need 18–22 minutes in an air fryer.

Temperature Control and Heat Distribution

One concern people have is whether air fryers distribute heat evenly enough for baking. While early models had hot spots, modern air fryers (especially basket-style and oven-style models) have improved significantly. Most come with adjustable temperature settings ranging from 175°F to 400°F (80°C to 200°C), which covers the ideal range for baking most cakes (typically 325°F to 350°F).

That said, not all air fryers are created equal. Smaller basket-style models (4–6 quarts) work best for single-layer cakes or mug cakes. Larger oven-style air fryers (8+ quarts) can handle 7-inch or even 8-inch pans, making them more versatile for full-sized desserts. The key is choosing the right size and understanding your model’s quirks—like whether the heating element is top-mounted (common in basket models) or dual-mounted (better for even baking).

Pro Tip: Always preheat your air fryer for 3–5 minutes before adding the cake. Just like an oven, starting with a warm cavity ensures consistent results. And don’t overcrowd the basket—air needs to flow freely around the pan to cook the cake properly.

Types of Cakes You Can Bake in an Air Fryer

Now that we know how it works, let’s talk about what you can bake. The good news? You’re not limited to just mug cakes or tiny cupcakes. Depending on your air fryer’s size and shape, you can make a surprising variety of desserts. Here are the most common types of cakes that thrive in an air fryer:

1. Mug Cakes (Single-Serve Desserts)

The most popular and easiest option. Mug cakes are perfect for late-night cravings or when you don’t want to make a whole cake. They cook in 2–4 minutes and require no special tools—just a microwave-safe mug and a few pantry staples. Try a chocolate mug cake with a gooey center, or a banana oat mug cake for a healthier twist.

Example Recipe: Mix 3 tbsp flour, 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp cocoa powder, 1/4 tsp baking powder, 3 tbsp milk, 1 tbsp oil, and a pinch of salt. Pour into a greased mug, place in the air fryer basket, and cook at 350°F for 3–4 minutes. The result? A warm, fudgy cake in under five minutes.

2. Mini Layer Cakes (6–7 Inch Pans)

If you have a larger air fryer (6 quarts or more), you can bake mini layer cakes in standard round cake pans. These are great for birthdays, date nights, or when you want something fancier than a mug cake. A 6-inch vanilla sponge, chocolate fudge, or lemon drizzle cake all turn out beautifully.

Tip: Use a dark non-stick pan for best browning, but avoid glass or ceramic—they don’t conduct heat as well and can lead to uneven cooking. Also, line the pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

3. Loaf Cakes and Pound Cakes

Loaf pans fit perfectly in most air fryers. Think banana bread, lemon poppy seed loaf, or classic pound cake. These denser cakes benefit from the air fryer’s gentle convection heat, which prevents cracking on top while ensuring the center is fully cooked.

Personal Anecdote: I once made a blueberry lemon loaf in my 5.8-quart basket air fryer. It cooked in 25 minutes (vs. 40 in my oven) and had a golden crust with a moist interior. The only adjustment? I rotated the pan halfway through because the back was browning faster than the front—a common issue in smaller models.

4. Bundt Cakes and Specialty Shapes

Yes, you can even bake a mini bundt cake! Use a silicone or non-stick mini bundt pan (typically 6–8 inches wide). The ridges help with air circulation, giving you that classic ring shape with a tender crumb. Just be careful when removing it—hot metal handles can be tricky.

5. Brownies and Blondies

These are some of the easiest and most rewarding air fryer desserts. A 7-inch square pan fits in most models, and you can make fudgy brownies, salted caramel blondies, or even cookie bars. They cook faster and often have a better crust-to-center ratio than oven-baked versions.

Bonus Idea: Make a “brookie” (brownie + cookie) by layering brownie batter with chocolate chip cookie dough. It’s decadent, delicious, and ready in under 20 minutes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking a Cake in an Air Fryer

Ready to try it yourself? Baking a cake in an air fryer is easier than you think—but there are a few key steps to follow for success. Here’s a foolproof method that works for most cake types, whether you’re making a mug cake or a mini layer.

Step 1: Choose the Right Pan

Not all pans fit in every air fryer. Measure your basket or oven cavity before buying. For basket models, look for pans 6 inches or smaller. For oven-style air fryers, 7–8 inch pans work well. Avoid tall or wide pans that block airflow.

Recommended Pans:

• 6-inch round cake pan (non-stick)
• 7-inch square pan (for brownies)
• Silicone bundt or loaf mold
• Microwave-safe mug (for single servings)

Step 2: Prep the Pan and Batter

Grease the pan with butter, oil, or cooking spray. For extra insurance, line the bottom with parchment paper. This is especially important for delicate cakes like sponge or chiffon.

Make your batter as usual. Most standard cake recipes (from scratch or boxed) work fine—just don’t overmix. For air fryer baking, slightly thicker batters (like pound cake or brownie) do better than very light, airy ones (like angel food cake).

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to the recipe’s recommended temperature (usually 325°F–350°F) and let it run for 3–5 minutes. This mimics preheating an oven and ensures consistent cooking.

Step 4: Add the Pan and Adjust Cooking Time

Place the pan in the center of the basket or tray. Close the air fryer and set the timer. Here’s where most people go wrong: air fryer cakes cook faster. Reduce the oven time by 20–30%. For example:

• Oven: 30 minutes → Air fryer: 20–24 minutes
• Oven: 40 minutes → Air fryer: 28–32 minutes

Use a toothpick or skewer to check for doneness. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it’s still wet, add 2–3 minutes at a time.

Step 5: Rotate for Even Baking (If Needed)

Smaller air fryers often have hot spots. If you notice one side browning faster, pause the cook and rotate the pan 180 degrees. This isn’t always necessary but can help in older or compact models.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes before removing. This helps it set and prevents crumbling. For layer cakes, transfer to a wire rack. For mug cakes, just grab a spoon and dig in!

Quick Tip: If your cake sticks, don’t panic. Let it cool completely—the contraction often releases it naturally. Or gently run a butter knife around the edges.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the best intentions, things can go sideways. I’ve had my share of air fryer cake disasters—overcooked edges, collapsed centers, pans that didn’t fit. Here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Mistake 1: Using the Wrong Pan Size

Too big? The pan blocks airflow and cooks unevenly. Too small? The batter overflows. Always measure your air fryer’s interior and choose a pan that leaves at least 1 inch of space around the sides.

Solution: Stick to 6–7 inch pans for basket models. For oven-style air fryers, 8 inch is usually safe.

Mistake 2: Not Adjusting Cooking Time

Assuming your air fryer cake needs the same time as an oven cake is a recipe for disaster. Air fryers are faster, so you’ll end up with a dry, crumbly mess.

Solution: Start checking for doneness 10 minutes earlier than the oven time. Use the toothpick test—it’s your best friend.

Mistake 3: Overfilling the Pan

Cake batter expands as it bakes. Fill your pan only halfway to two-thirds full. Overfilling leads to overflow, which creates smoke and mess.

Personal Fail: I once filled a 6-inch pan to the brim with brownie batter. It bubbled over, dripped onto the heating element, and set off the smoke alarm. Not my finest moment.

Mistake 4: Skipping the Parchment Paper

Some cakes (especially chocolate or fruit-based ones) stick easily. Skipping the liner is a gamble.

Solution: Always line the bottom of the pan with parchment. For round pans, trace the pan on parchment paper, cut it out, and press it in. No more stuck cakes!

Mistake 5: Not Preheating

Adding batter to a cold air fryer leads to uneven cooking. The edges may cook faster while the center stays raw.

Solution: Preheat for 3–5 minutes. It makes a bigger difference than you’d think.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Cakes Every Time

Now that you know what not to do, let’s focus on what does work. These tips come from trial, error, and a lot of cake tasting. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, they’ll help you nail your air fryer cakes.

Use Room-Temperature Ingredients

Just like in traditional baking, room-temperature eggs, butter, and milk blend better. They create a smoother batter and help the cake rise evenly. Cold ingredients can make the batter dense.

Don’t Open the Air Fryer Too Often

Every time you open the basket, heat escapes. This lowers the internal temperature and can cause your cake to sink. Only check once—after about 70% of the cooking time.

Experiment with Recipes

Not all cakes behave the same. Dense cakes (pound, loaf) do better than light, fluffy ones (angel food, sponge). But don’t be afraid to try! I once adapted a red velvet recipe for the air fryer by reducing the sugar slightly and adding a touch more liquid. It worked beautifully.

Try Different Add-Ins

Mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or berries work great. Just don’t overload the batter—stick to 1/2 to 1 cup total per 6-inch cake. Too many add-ins can weigh it down.

Clean the Air Fryer After Use

Baked-on batter or oil residue can smoke in future uses. Wipe the basket and pan with warm, soapy water after each bake. For stubborn bits, soak the pan for 10 minutes.

Store Leftovers Properly

Air fryer cakes tend to dry out faster than oven-baked ones because of the intense heat. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes to restore moisture.

Cake Type	Pan Size	Temp (°F)	Cook Time (min)	Notes
Mug Cake	Microwave-safe mug	350	3–4	Best for single servings
6-inch Layer Cake	6-inch round	325	20–25	Rotate pan halfway
Loaf Cake	6-inch loaf pan	330	25–30	Check with toothpick
Brownies	7-inch square	350	18–22	Don’t overbake
Mini Bundt	Silicone bundt (6-in)	330	22–26	Cool 10 min before unmolding

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

So, can you bake a cake in an air fryer? The answer is a resounding yes—and it’s not just a gimmick. Whether you’re making a quick mug cake after dinner, a mini birthday cake for two, or even a full-sized loaf, the air fryer delivers surprisingly good results. It’s faster, more energy-efficient, and perfect for small spaces.

Of course, it’s not a complete replacement for a traditional oven. Delicate sponge cakes or large wedding cakes still need the spacious, gentle heat of an oven. But for everyday baking? The air fryer holds its own. I’ve used mine to make everything from chocolate chip cookie bars to a spiced pumpkin loaf, and each time, I’m reminded how versatile this little appliance is.

The key is starting simple. Try a mug cake first. If that works, move on to a 6-inch layer or a brownie batch. Pay attention to pan size, preheating, and timing adjustments. And don’t be discouraged by early failures—every baker has had a sunken cake or a burnt edge. With a few tries, you’ll find your rhythm.

At the end of the day, baking in an air fryer is about convenience, creativity, and fun. It’s about satisfying that sweet craving without waiting an hour for the oven to heat up. It’s about making dessert possible, even when your kitchen is small or your time is short. So go ahead—grab that air fryer, preheat it, and bake your first cake. I promise, you’ll be surprised by how delicious it tastes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake a cake in an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake a cake in an air fryer! It’s a quick and energy-efficient alternative to traditional ovens, yielding moist, evenly baked results with the right settings.

What size cake can I make in an air fryer?

Most air fryers accommodate 6- to 8-inch round or square pans. Always check your air fryer’s basket dimensions and avoid overfilling the batter to ensure proper air circulation.

Do I need special pans to bake a cake in an air fryer?

Use oven-safe, lightweight pans like silicone, ceramic, or metal that fit your air fryer basket. Avoid glass or heavy cast iron, as they may cause uneven baking or damage the basket.

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

Air fryer cakes typically take 20–30 minutes at 320°F–350°F (160°C–175°C), depending on the recipe and size. Always check for doneness with a toothpick to avoid overbaking.

Can I use my regular cake recipes in an air fryer?

Yes, but reduce the temperature by 25°F and shorten the baking time. Air fryers circulate heat more intensely, so adjustments prevent dry or burnt cakes.

Why is baking a cake in an air fryer surprising?

Many assume air fryers only cook savory foods, but their rapid hot air circulation works beautifully for desserts too. The result is a perfectly golden, fluffy cake with minimal preheating!