If you’re craving a moist, flavorful cake but want to skip the oven, this air fryer sheet cake recipe is your perfect solution. It’s simple to make, requires minimal cleanup, and yields a delicious dessert that’s ideal for sharing. The air fryer’s even heat circulation ensures your cake bakes perfectly with a tender crumb and a lightly crisp top.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup whole milk
- Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 330°F (165°C) for about 3 minutes. Lightly grease a 7-inch or 8-inch round cake pan or a similarly sized oven-safe dish that fits into your air fryer basket.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix. If using, fold in chocolate chips or nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Place the cake 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. Check around the 20-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
- Carefully remove the cake pan from the air fryer and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting or serving.
Tips
- Substitutions: You can substitute almond milk or other dairy alternatives for regular milk. For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil instead of butter.
- Pan selection: Make sure your chosen pan fits comfortably in your air fryer basket with some space around the edges for hot air circulation. Silicone molds also work well.
- Prevent sticking: Grease your pan thoroughly or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cake after 20 minutes. Every air fryer is different, so start checking early to avoid dry cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this sheet cake warm or at room temperature. Top with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence. Fresh berries or sliced fruit also complement the moist crumb nicely.
Variations
For a fruity twist, fold in fresh blueberries or chopped strawberries into the batter before baking. To make a chocolate version, add cocoa powder (about ¼ cup) and chocolate chips. For a lemon-flavored cake, swap out vanilla extract for lemon zest and juice. You can also mix in cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth and spice.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover 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 15-20 seconds or until warm. Reheating in the air fryer at 330°F for 3-5 minutes also works well to restore freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Start checking around the 20-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
Can I use a different pan size?
Yes, but adjust the baking time accordingly. Smaller or thicker pans may require a few extra minutes, while larger, shallower pans will bake faster. Always monitor the cake’s progress to prevent burning or undercooking.
Is it possible to make this cake vegan?
Absolutely. Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), use plant-based butter or oil, and non-dairy milk. Adjust the baking time as needed and check for doneness.
Can I add frosting or glaze?
Yes, once the cake is completely cooled, you can frost it with buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. For best results, wait until the cake is fully cooled to prevent melting the frosting.
What if my cake sticks to the pan?
Ensure you thoroughly grease or line the pan with parchment paper before pouring in the batter. Let the cake cool slightly before attempting to remove it, and run a knife around the edges if needed.
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