Can You Make a Cake in the Air Fryer Discover the Surprising Answer

Yes, you can absolutely make a cake in the air fryer—it’s a game-changer for quick, moist, and evenly baked desserts without heating up your oven. With the right pan and timing, your air fryer delivers perfectly risen cakes in under 30 minutes, ideal for small batches or last-minute treats.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can bake cakes in most air fryers with the right settings.
• Use oven-safe pans that fit your air fryer basket for even baking.
• Lower temperature by 25°F compared to conventional ovens to prevent over-browning.
• Check doneness early—air fryers cook faster than traditional methods.
• Ideal for small cakes like mug or single-layer cakes, not large tiered ones.
• Preheat the air fryer for consistent, reliable results every time.

Why I Decided to Bake a Cake in My Air Fryer (And You Should Too)

I’ll never forget the first time I considered baking a cake in my air fryer. I was scrolling through social media, sipping my morning coffee, when a photo of a golden, perfectly risen chocolate cake appeared—tagged #AirFryerCake. My first thought? “No way.” I’ve always associated air fryers with crispy fries and juicy chicken wings, not delicate desserts. But curiosity got the better of me. Could you really make a cake in the air fryer?

After weeks of testing—some triumphs, a few flops, and one very sad pancake-like disaster—I discovered something surprising: yes, you can make a cake in the air fryer, and it’s not just a gimmick. In fact, for certain types of cakes, it’s a game-changer. Whether you’re short on time, space, or oven capacity, the air fryer might just become your new favorite baking tool. So, can you make a cake in the air fryer? The short answer is yes. The long answer? Let’s dive in.

How Air Frying Works (And Why It Matters for Baking)

The Science Behind the Crisp

Air fryers work by circulating hot air around food using a powerful fan and heating element. This rapid airflow creates a convection effect, which is similar to how convection ovens work. The result? Food cooks faster and develops a crispy exterior without needing much oil. But here’s the catch: while this works wonders for fries and chicken tenders, cakes need a different environment—one that’s moist, evenly heated, and free from aggressive air blasts.

When you bake a cake, you’re relying on gentle, consistent heat to allow the leavening agents (like baking powder or baking soda) to work their magic. Too much heat or airflow can cause the outside to set too quickly, leaving a gooey center or a collapsed structure. So, how do you reconcile the air fryer’s “crisp everything” nature with the soft, fluffy texture of cake? The key is adjusting temperature, time, and technique.

Temperature and Airflow: The Cake-Friendly Balance

Most air fryers run hotter than standard ovens because of the concentrated heat. For baking, you’ll want to reduce the temperature by 25°F (about 15°C) compared to a regular oven recipe. For example, if a cake calls for 350°F in the oven, set your air fryer to 325°F. This helps prevent over-browning and gives the center time to catch up.

Another tip? Use a light coating of oil or non-stick spray on your cake pan. The air fryer’s fan can dry out the batter, especially around the edges. A little oil creates a moisture barrier. I also recommend placing a small bowl of water in the basket (not touching the cake) to add humidity—this mimics a steamy oven environment and keeps the cake tender.

Finally, avoid overfilling the pan. Air fryers need space for air to circulate. Fill your cake pan only halfway to two-thirds full. This prevents overflow and ensures even baking. I learned this the hard way when my first attempt turned into a volcanic eruption of batter—less cake, more mess.

Which Cakes Work Best in the Air Fryer (And Which Don’t)

Winners: Small, Dense, and Single-Layer Cakes

Not all cakes are created equal when it comes to air frying. The best candidates are:

• Single-layer cakes: Think classic vanilla, chocolate, or lemon. These bake quickly and evenly in the compact air fryer space.
• Dense cakes: Pound cake, banana bread, or carrot cake hold up well to the air fryer’s heat. Their thick batter resists drying out.
• Cupcakes and muffins: These are perfect for air frying. They’re small, bake fast, and you can make just a few at a time without heating up a whole oven.
• Individual desserts: Think lava cakes, mini cheesecakes, or mug cakes. The air fryer’s precision makes it ideal for portion-controlled treats.

I’ve had great success with a single-layer chocolate cake in a 6-inch pan. It baked in just 22 minutes (compared to 30 in my oven) and had a beautifully moist center with a slightly crisp top—almost like a brownie-cake hybrid. Similarly, my banana bread came out perfectly moist, with no dry edges. The air fryer’s even heat distribution really shines here.

Losers: Delicate, Multi-Layer, or Large Cakes

On the flip side, some cakes just don’t translate well to air frying:

• Angel food or sponge cakes: These rely on gentle, slow baking to rise properly. The air fryer’s intense heat can deflate them.
• Layer cakes with frosting: The air fryer’s size limits you to one layer. Plus, frosting a warm cake in a cramped space is a nightmare.
• Very large cakes (9-inch or bigger): Most air fryers max out at 6–7 inches. Even if it fits, the cake may bake unevenly.
• Cakes with delicate toppings: Fresh fruit, whipped cream, or meringue can wilt or melt under the direct heat.

I once tried a three-layer strawberry shortcake in the air fryer. The first layer baked fine, but by the time I got to the third, the basket was too hot, and the cake stuck to the pan. Lesson learned: save the multi-layer masterpieces for the oven.

Step-by-Step Guide to Air Fryer Cake Success

Step 1: Choose the Right Pan

Your pan choice is crucial. Here’s what to look for:

• Size: Measure your air fryer basket. Most fit a 6-inch round pan or a 7-inch square pan. Silicone molds work too.
• Material: Dark metal pans absorb heat faster, which can over-brown your cake. Light-colored or silicone pans are safer. I use a lightweight aluminum pan with a parchment paper liner—best of both worlds.
• Shape: Round or square pans with low sides (1.5–2 inches) work best. Tall pans block airflow.

Step 2: Prep the Batter (And the Air Fryer)

Follow your favorite cake recipe, but make these adjustments:

• Reduce oven temperature by 25°F (e.g., 325°F instead of 350°F).
• Fill the pan only halfway to two-thirds full. Air fryers need space to circulate air.
• Preheat the air fryer for 5 minutes. This ensures even baking from the start.
• Place a small bowl of water in the basket (if your model allows it). This adds humidity and prevents drying.

Pro tip: Line the pan with parchment paper. It makes removal a breeze and prevents sticking. I also lightly oil the parchment for extra insurance.

Step 3: Bake, Check, and Adjust

Baking times vary by air fryer model and cake density. Here’s a general guide:

• Cupcakes/muffins: 12–18 minutes
• 6-inch single-layer cake: 20–25 minutes
• Dense cakes (pound cake, banana bread): 25–35 minutes

Check for doneness early. Insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the top is browning too fast, cover it with foil to shield it from direct heat.

I once baked a lemon cake and forgot to check early. The top was perfectly golden, but the center was still raw. A quick foil cover saved it—just 5 more minutes, and it was perfect.

Common Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)

Mistake 1: Overcrowding the Basket

Air fryers need space for air to circulate. If you cram too much batter in, the cake will bake unevenly. The edges may overcook while the center stays raw. Solution: Use a smaller pan or bake in batches. I once tried making two 6-inch cakes at once—disaster. Now, I stick to one at a time.

Mistake 2: Skipping the Parchment Paper

Even with non-stick spray, cakes can stick to metal pans. I learned this when my first chocolate cake fused to the pan like a science experiment. Solution: Always line the pan with parchment paper. It’s a small step that saves big headaches.

Mistake 3: Not Adjusting Temperature

Air fryers run hotter than ovens. Baking at the same temperature as a recipe calls for can lead to burnt tops and undercooked centers. Solution: Reduce the temperature by 25°F. This small tweak makes a huge difference.

Mistake 4: Opening the Basket Too Often

Every time you open the air fryer, heat escapes, and the cake can collapse. I’m guilty of this—I peeked at my vanilla cake every 5 minutes. The result? A sunken, sad-looking dessert. Solution: Resist the urge! Only open the basket to check doneness with a toothpick or after 75% of the baking time has passed.

Mistake 5: Ignoring the Water Trick

The air fryer’s fan can dry out cakes, especially around the edges. My first attempt at a carrot cake had a crisp crust but a dry interior. Solution: Place a small bowl of water in the basket (if possible) or spritz the cake with water before baking. This adds moisture and keeps the cake tender.

Data Table: Air Fryer Cake Baking Times & Tips

Cake Type	Pan Size	Temp (°F)	Time (Minutes)	Special Tips
Vanilla cupcakes	6-cup silicone mold	325	12–15	Fill cups 2/3 full; check at 12 mins
Chocolate cake (single layer)	6-inch round	325	20–25	Use parchment paper; cover with foil if browning too fast
Banana bread	7-inch square	325	25–30	Add water bowl for moisture; toothpick test
Carrot cake	6-inch round	325	22–25	Light oil spray on parchment; spritz with water
Mug cake	12-oz mug	325	8–10	Stir batter well; don’t overfill
Mini cheesecakes	6-cup silicone mold	300	20–25	Use a water bath (place mold in larger pan with hot water)

Final Thoughts: Is Air Fryer Cake Baking Worth It?

So, can you make a cake in the air fryer? Absolutely. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. For small, dense, or single-layer cakes, the air fryer is a fast, energy-efficient, and surprisingly effective tool. It’s perfect for:

• Weeknight desserts: Bake a cake in under 30 minutes.
• Small households: No need to heat a whole oven for one cake.
• Hot days: Keep your kitchen cool while baking.
• Beginners: Fewer variables than a traditional oven.

That said, it’s not magic. You’ll still need to adjust recipes, monitor baking times, and accept that some cakes just won’t work. The air fryer won’t replace your oven for large or delicate desserts, but it’s a fantastic addition to your baking toolkit.

My biggest takeaway? Experiment with confidence. Start with simple recipes—cupcakes, mug cakes, or banana bread—and work your way up. Keep notes on what works and what doesn’t. And most importantly, don’t be afraid of a few flops. My first air fryer cake was a pancake, but my fifth? A moist, fluffy chocolate dream that my family devoured in minutes.

The air fryer isn’t just for savory dishes. With a little patience and the right approach, it can become your secret weapon for quick, delicious cakes. So go ahead—dust off that air fryer, grab a mixing bowl, and discover the surprising answer for yourself. Happy baking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make a cake in the air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely make a cake in the air fryer! It bakes evenly and quickly, producing moist, fluffy results with a slightly crisp top—perfect for small batches or quick desserts.

What types of cakes work best in an air fryer?

Light and fluffy cakes like sponge, vanilla, chocolate, or banana bread work best in an air fryer. Dense or overly moist cakes (like cheesecake) may require adjustments to time and temperature.

Do I need special pans to make a cake in the air fryer?

You don’t need special pans, but a lightweight, oven-safe dish or silicone mold that fits your air fryer basket is ideal. Make sure it’s at least 1 inch smaller than the basket to allow air circulation.

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

Most air fryer cakes take 15–25 minutes at 320°F (160°C), depending on size and recipe. Always check for doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center—if it comes out clean, it’s done.

Can you make a cake in the air fryer without a cake pan?

Yes, you can use oven-safe ramekins, silicone molds, or even a greased heatproof bowl. Just ensure the container is air fryer-safe and allows for even heat distribution to avoid undercooking.

Is an air fryer cake as good as one baked in a traditional oven?

An air fryer cake is just as delicious—often moister due to faster, concentrated heat. While the texture may be slightly denser, it’s a fantastic alternative for small servings or when you’re short on time.