Air Fryer Box Cake: Is It Possible?

Air fryers are a convenient alternative to traditional ovens when it comes to baking cakes. They are faster, more energy-efficient, and perfect for smaller portions. However, the process is not as simple as it may seem, and there are some important considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, the size of the cake tin matters; it should fit comfortably inside the air fryer basket without touching the heating element or the sides. Secondly, the batter should not fill the tin to the brim, as the cake needs space to rise. Thirdly, the temperature and timing may need adjustments, as air fryers circulate hot air more efficiently than conventional ovens. Finally, monitoring the cake during baking is crucial to prevent over-browning and ensure even cooking. While the results may not be perfect, air-fried cakes can be a delicious and unique treat.

Choosing a recipe

• Keep it simple: Opt for a basic recipe, especially if you're new to baking cakes in an air fryer. A single-layer chocolate cake or a vanilla sponge cake is a good starting point. Once you master the basics, you can experiment with more complex recipes.
• Consider the size: Air fryers have limited space, so choose a recipe that fits your air fryer's capacity. Smaller cakes or cupcakes are ideal, as they bake more quickly and evenly than larger ones. Half-size Bundt pans or 6" round pans are good choices.
• Choose the right ingredients: Opt for recipes that include binding agents like eggs and moisturisers like vegetable oil. These ingredients help create a well-structured and moist cake.
• Follow box mix instructions: If using a box cake mix, pay close attention to the instructions on the packaging, including the recommended oven temperature, baking time, and the amount of oil, water, and eggs needed. These instructions generally work well in an air fryer too.
• Be prepared to adapt: Not all air fryers are the same, so you may need to adjust temperatures and baking times accordingly. Be prepared for some trial and error, and don't be afraid to make adjustments as you get to know your air fryer.

Selecting the right pan

• Size and Fit: Choose a cake pan that fits comfortably inside your air fryer basket. Ensure that the pan doesn't touch the heating element or the sides of the air fryer to allow proper air circulation. The size of your air fryer basket will determine the size of the pan you can use.
• Material and Type: Silicone cake pans are a popular choice due to their flexibility, non-stick properties, and ease of removal. They come in various shapes and sizes, including round, square, and bundt pans. Aluminum cake pans are also a good option, especially if they are designed specifically for air fryers, as they conduct heat efficiently. Mini cake pans are perfect for individual-sized cakes or cupcakes, and springform cake pans are ideal for cheesecakes or delicate cakes.
• Pan Capacity: Consider the capacity of the pan in relation to the amount of batter you will be using. Avoid overfilling the pan, as this can lead to overflowing during baking. Leave some space at the top to allow the cake to rise.
• Oven-Safe: If your air fryer comes with an oven-safe pan or accessory, you can use it for baking cakes. These accessories are designed for high-temperature cooking and even browning.
• Precautionary Measures: Even if your pan is non-stick, it is advisable to grease it lightly with cooking spray, butter, or shortening to prevent sticking. You can also line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper for easier cake removal.

Determining time and temperature

Determining the time and temperature for baking a cake in an air fryer is a crucial step in ensuring your cake turns out perfectly. Here are some tips to help you get it right:

• Follow the cake mix instructions: Start by following the recommended oven temperature and baking time on the box of your cake mix. Air fryers circulate hot air more efficiently than traditional ovens, so you'll generally need to set a lower temperature and adjust the baking time accordingly. For instance, if your cake mix suggests baking at 170 degrees Celsius in a conventional oven, you might want to reduce the temperature to 160 degrees Celsius in your air fryer.
• Adjust based on your air fryer model: Keep in mind that all air fryers are different, and the temperature accuracy may vary across models. Therefore, you might need to make minor adjustments to the temperature and timing based on your specific air fryer. For example, if your air fryer doesn't have a preheat setting, you can still bake cakes in it since air fryers heat up quickly.
• Use a lower temperature and bake longer: The main challenge when baking a cake in an air fryer is ensuring that the centre is fully cooked without burning the crust. It's generally recommended to bake at a slightly lower temperature for a longer period to achieve this. For instance, if your cake mix suggests a baking time of 20 minutes in a conventional oven, you might need to increase the time to 25 or 30 minutes in the air fryer.
• Monitor the cake's progress: Since baking in an air fryer may require some experimentation, it's a good idea to check on your cake's progress a few times during the baking process. You can set a timer for the recommended baking time and then check on the cake every 10 minutes to see how it's doing. This way, you can make any necessary adjustments.
• Use a toothpick or skewer to check for doneness: As air fryer baking times can vary, it's best to rely on a toothpick or skewer test to determine when your cake is ready. Insert the toothpick or skewer into the centre of the cake, and if it comes out clean, your cake is done. If not, put the cake back in the air fryer and bake in short intervals, checking for doneness each time, until the toothpick comes out clean.
• Prevent over-browning: If you notice that the top of your cake is browning too quickly, you can cover it with a heatproof lid or aluminium foil to prevent further browning. For runnier batters, you might want to cover the cake from the start to prevent splattering and potential damage to the heating element. Just be sure to uncover the cake towards the end of the baking process to allow the top to brown.

Preventing the cake's top from burning

When baking a cake in an air fryer, it's important to take measures to prevent the top from burning while ensuring the centre is fully baked. Here are some tips to achieve that:

Choose the Right Pan

Select a pan that fits comfortably inside your air fryer basket. A half-size Bundt pan (about 3-cup working capacity) is a good option as it allows hot air to circulate through the centre and the sides of the cake, resulting in more even baking. If you're using a full-size cake pan, go for an 8" or 9" round pan.

Adjust Temperature and Time

Air fryers bake at a slightly lower temperature than conventional ovens. Set your air fryer to 325°F (162.8°C) and adjust the time accordingly. The baking time will likely be longer than what a traditional oven recipe calls for, especially if you're using a full-size pan. Remember, the goal is to get the centre of your cake fully baked without burning the crust.

Shield the Cake's Top

You can drape aluminium foil over the cake once it's almost as brown as you like. However, foil may not stay in place due to the convection fan. A better option is to use something heavier like a heat-safe frying pan lid or a heat diffuser that sits atop your pan.

Add an Edible Topping

Instead of shielding the cake with foil or a lid, you can add a topping midway through the baking process. This kills two birds with one stone as it prevents the top from burning and also means you don't have to frost the cake later. Lazy Daisy Cake, with its topping of caramelized butter, sugar, and coconut, is a perfect example.

Use Cake Strips

Cake strips are soaked fabric strips that you wrap around your cake pan before putting it in the oven. They help promote even baking, preventing the sides of the pan from getting too brown and done before the middle of the cake.

Storing the cake

Storing your freshly baked box cake is an important step to ensure it stays moist and delicious. Here are some tips for storing your cake:

Let the Cake Cool Down:

First, let the cake cool completely before storing it. Place the cake on a wire rack to cool, which helps distribute the weight evenly and prevents the cake from sinking or becoming misshapen.

Storing at Room Temperature:

If you plan to serve the cake within a day or two, you can store it at room temperature. Place the cake in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. This will keep the cake fresh and prevent it from drying out.

Refrigerating the Cake:

For longer-term storage, consider refrigerating the cake. Cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before putting it in the fridge. This will help maintain moisture and keep the cake fresh for up to a week.

Freezing the Cake:

If you want to store your cake for even longer, freezing is a great option. Cut the cake into slices and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the slices in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer. This way, you can enjoy a slice of cake whenever you crave it, and it can last for months!

When using an airtight container, choose one that is made of glass or plastic and ensure it has a secure lid. This will keep the cake fresh and protect it from absorbing any odours from the refrigerator or freezer.

Storing Frosted or Decorated Cakes:

If your cake has frosting or decorations, take extra care when storing it. Avoid stacking cakes with delicate toppings, and be mindful that certain toppings may not freeze well. Additionally, if your cake has a creamy frosting, it may need to be refrigerated to maintain its consistency and prevent spoilage.

Whether storing at room temperature or in the refrigerator, choose a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. This will help prevent the cake from drying out or becoming spoiled.

Consuming the Cake within the Recommended Time:

Lastly, be mindful of how long your cake will stay fresh. For the best taste and texture, consume the cake within the recommended time frames: 1-2 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. If frozen, your cake slices can last for several months.

Frequently asked questions