How to Make a Vanilla Cake in the Air Fryer

Hi, I'm Samantha from RecipeThis.com, and the voice behind the popular kitchen gadgets podcast, Magic with Gadgets. As one of the co-creators of the bestselling air fryer cookbook, I'm excited to share how you can make a delicious sponge cake, also known as a pound cake, in your air fryer.

Why is it Called a Pound Cake?

A pound cake gets its name from the equal pound portions of its ingredients: a pound of sugar, a pound of butter, and a pound of flour. For those using metric measurements, this translates to approximately 200 grams of each ingredient. Add three large eggs, a bit of vanilla, and some milk, and you're ready to bake a cake in your air fryer.

Ingredients:

• 200g sugar
• 200g butter (room temperature)
• 200g flour
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• A splash of milk

Steps to Make the Cake:

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by ensuring your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. Combine the butter and sugar in a bowl and mix until smooth.

2. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly after each addition.

3. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour, mixing gently to avoid lumps. Add a splash of milk to achieve a smooth batter.

4. Use a Silicone Cake Pan: We recommend using a silicone cake pan for the air fryer. It’s non-stick, easy to clean, and doesn't require greasing.

5. Air Fry the Cake: Preheat your air fryer to 160°C (320°F). Pour the batter into the cake pan and place it in the air fryer. Cook for 25 minutes, then increase the temperature to 180°C (360°F), cover with foil, and cook for an additional 20 minutes.

6. Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done. It should come out clean when inserted into the center.

Decorating Your Cake:

Once your cake has cooled, it’s time to get creative. Here’s a simple icing recipe:

• Icing Ingredients: Powdered sugar, milk, and food coloring.
• Method: Mix the powdered sugar with a little milk until it reaches a thick consistency. Add food coloring gradually until you achieve your desired shade. Pour the icing over the cake and add sprinkles for a fun finish.

Tips for Air Fryer Baking:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Whole Milk: Use whole milk for a richer cake texture.
• Silicone Bakeware: This is ideal for air fryer baking as it’s easy to handle and clean.