If you’re craving a warm, comforting breakfast that combines the richness of coffee cake with the convenience of an air fryer, this recipe is perfect for you. It produces a moist, crumb-topped coffee cake with a tender crumb and just the right amount of sweetness, all cooked quickly in your air fryer. It’s ideal for busy mornings or when you want a homemade treat without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons (25g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the crumb topping:
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 330°F (165°C). Lightly grease a small round cake pan or line it with parchment paper that fits inside your air fryer basket.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, oil or melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
- In a small bowl, prepare the crumb topping by combining the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the batter in the pan.
- Place the pan into the air fryer basket. Cook at 330°F (165°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Carefully remove the pan from the air fryer and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and a more uniform crumb.
- If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute; you can also use buttermilk.
- For a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, increase the cinnamon in the crumb topping or batter.
- Ensure your pan fits comfortably in your air fryer to allow proper air circulation for even baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of warm coffee cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of icing for extra indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a cup of fresh coffee, tea, or milk. For a breakfast-on-the-go, pack slices in an airtight container for a quick, satisfying snack later in the day.
Variations
- Nutty Coffee Cake: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the crumb topping for added crunch and flavor.
- Blueberry Coffee Cake: Gently fold 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter before baking.
- Chocolate Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of chocolate spread or melted chocolate into the batter and swirl with a toothpick before adding the crumb topping.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum if needed.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. The cake will regain its moistness and warmth, making it almost as good as fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this coffee cake without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake it in a conventional oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Use a similar cake pan, and check for doneness to prevent overbaking.
Can I freeze leftover coffee cake?
Absolutely. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
What if my batter is too thick or too runny?
If the batter is too thick, add a small amount of milk or additional sour cream a teaspoon at a time until it reaches a pourable consistency. If it’s too runny, add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it thickens. Proper consistency ensures even baking and good rise.
Can I add fruit or other mix-ins to the batter?
Yes, fold in chopped fruit like blueberries or raspberries, or even chocolate chips, into the batter before pouring it into the pan. Be gentle to avoid overmixing, which can affect the cake’s texture.
What size pan should I use?
A 6-inch or 7-inch round cake pan works well in most air fryers. Make sure the pan fits comfortably inside with some space around for air circulation. If your air fryer is smaller, consider dividing the batter into two pans and baking separately.
Is the crumb topping necessary?
While it adds a delightful crunch and flavor, you can omit the crumb topping if you prefer a simpler cake or want to reduce sugar and fat. The cake will still be tasty, just slightly less textured.
Enjoy baking this easy air fryer coffee cake, which combines convenience with homemade goodness. It’s a versatile treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack anytime!
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