Air-Fried Banana Cake: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Air fryers are a great alternative to ovens when it comes to baking banana cake. Not only do they circulate hot air around the food, allowing it to bake evenly and quickly, but they also deliver a moist and fluffy texture, thanks to the hot air that circulates around the cake. The best part? You can make a small batch of this delicious treat in just 30 minutes!

Choosing the right pan for your air fryer

When it comes to choosing the right pan for your air fryer, there are several factors to consider. Here are some guidelines to help you select the best option:

Pan Material

• Metal pans, such as muffin pans, cake pans, or sheet pans, are excellent conductors of heat and promote even cooking.
• Non-stick dark pans are ideal for achieving a crispy texture without sticking. They absorb heat well and cook food quickly.
• Cast iron pans are perfect for high-heat recipes and searing meats, retaining heat exceptionally well.
• Silicone molds are pliable, heat-resistant, and dishwasher-safe. They are ideal for delicate items like muffins and cakes, but cooking times may need adjustment due to their lower heat conductivity.
• Aluminum pans are lightweight, heat up quickly, and cook food evenly. Disposable options are also available for convenience.
• Ceramic pans are non-reactive and maintain a consistent temperature, making them suitable for cooking acidic foods.
• Tempered glass pans are excellent for casseroles and dishes that require a longer cooking time at a steady heat, although they are heavier.

Pan Shape and Size

• Opt for pans with perforated surfaces or lower sides to encourage airflow. Air fryer trays, such as those designed specifically for air fryers, improve airflow and result in quicker, crispier food.
• Ensure your pan fits comfortably inside the air fryer basket with room on all sides for proper air circulation. Avoid pans that are too large or have high sides, as they can block airflow and trap heat, leading to uneven cooking.
• Measure the interior of your air fryer to choose a pan that is the correct shape and size. The pan should be tall enough to contain the food without blocking the heating element and allow enough room for air circulation.
• Mini loaf pans are a great option, and most air fryers can accommodate two of them.

Other Considerations

• Darker pans are preferable as they heat up faster and give a beautiful browning effect. Shiny baking sheets, on the other hand, reflect heat and can cause uneven cooking.
• Parchment paper is useful for lining pans to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. However, always secure it to the pan and avoid using it during preheating to prevent fire hazards.
• Avoid Teflon and non-stick coatings, as they can release harmful toxins when heated past their maximum temperature range of 300°F.
• Do not use paper products or plastic in the air fryer, as they can catch fire or melt, respectively.
• Preheating the air fryer is essential for consistent cooking and activating baking powder/soda in batters.
• Always use oven-safe dishware in your air fryer, just as you would in a standard oven, to prevent warping or melting.

Preparing the batter

Firstly, gather your ingredients. For a basic banana cake, you will need ripe bananas, flour, sugar, a leavening agent (baking powder or baking soda), a pinch of salt, eggs, butter or oil, and milk. You can also add extras like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for a customised touch.

Next, prepare your dry ingredients by whisking together the flour, leavening agent, and salt in a separate bowl. Set this aside.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer if you have one. If you are using oil instead of butter, simply add it to the wet ingredients. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the mashed bananas. You can use a fork or a potato masher to thoroughly mash the bananas. If your batter includes extras like chocolate chips or nuts, fold them into the mixture now.

Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until everything is combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.

Your batter is now ready to be transferred to a greased baking pan. Spread it out evenly and adjust the pan size according to your air fryer model. Most recipes recommend a small, 6-inch cake pan or a loaf pan that fits comfortably inside the air fryer basket.

Finally, insert the pan into the air fryer and set the temperature and timer. The cooking time will vary depending on the brand and size of your air fryer, but on average, it should take around 25-35 minutes for the cake to bake. To check if your cake is done, insert a toothpick or skewer into the centre. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready!

Preheating the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the banana cake-making process. It ensures that the cooking time remains consistent from start to finish, helping to create a soft and fluffy cake texture. Here is a detailed guide on preheating your air fryer:

Firstly, it is crucial to ensure your cake pan fits comfortably within the air fryer basket, allowing some room on all sides for proper air circulation. This step is essential for even cooking. If your pan is too large, the cake may end up with undercooked sections. If you are unsure, it is better to use a smaller pan to be safe.

Once you have the right-sized pan, the next step is to preheat your air fryer. Set the temperature to 320°F (160°C) and let it preheat for 3-6 minutes. During this time, you can prepare the cake batter. The preheating process is similar to that of a conventional oven, ensuring the air fryer is hot enough to kickstart the baking process as soon as the cake is placed inside.

After preheating, you can proceed to grease your cake pan and prepare the batter. Once the batter is ready, transfer it to the greased pan, spreading it out evenly to ensure an even bake.

Remember, air fryer temperatures can vary between brands, so it is advisable to keep a close eye on your cake, especially if it is your first time making it. Additionally, if you notice that the top of your cake is browning too quickly, you can cover it with aluminium foil to prevent direct exposure to the heat.

Baking the cake

Now that you've prepared your batter, it's time to bake your banana cake in the air fryer! Here's a step-by-step guide:

First, preheat your air fryer to 320°F or 340°F (depending on your recipe) for 3-6 minutes. This step is crucial as it ensures consistent cooking from the start. While the air fryer is preheating, you can prepare your batter by mixing the dry and wet ingredients separately, as described earlier.

Next, grease a round cake pan or a small loaf pan that fits comfortably inside your air fryer basket. You can use butter or non-stick cooking spray for greasing. Alternatively, you can line the pan with parchment paper. If you're using a loaf pan, it's a good idea to line it with baking paper and trim the edges before greasing it.

Once your air fryer is preheated, it's time to pour the batter into the prepared pan. Spread the batter evenly to ensure uniform cooking. If you're adding any extras like walnuts or chocolate chips, now is the time to sprinkle them on top.

Place the pan into the air fryer basket and set the temperature to 320°F or 330°F (again, depending on your recipe). Set the cook time for 25-45 minutes. The exact baking time may vary depending on your air fryer brand and size, as well as the type of pan you're using.

Keep an eye on your cake, especially if this is your first time making it in an air fryer. Air fryer temperatures can vary, so it's important to monitor the cake to prevent overcooking. After about 20 minutes, check if the cake is browning too quickly. If so, you can cover it with aluminium foil to prevent direct exposure to heat.

To check if your cake is done, insert a toothpick or a skewer into the centre. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready! If not, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again.

Once the cake is baked, carefully remove the pan from the air fryer and let it cool. You can place it on a wire rack to cool for 10-15 minutes before removing the cake from the pan. Then, let it cool completely to room temperature.

Your delicious air fryer banana cake is now ready to be served! You can dust it with powdered sugar, add a dollop of whipped cream, or even spread on some cream cheese frosting if you like. Enjoy your homemade treat!

Cooling the cake

Step 1: Initial Cooling in the Pan

After your banana cake is baked to perfection in the air fryer, carefully remove the cake pan from the air fryer basket and place it on a wire rack. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 to 15 minutes. This initial cooling period is crucial as it helps the cake to firm up slightly, making it easier to handle and reducing the risk of it falling apart when removed from the pan.

Step 2: Remove from Pan and Cool Completely

After the initial cooling period, it's time to take the cake out of the pan. Gently turn the pan upside down and tap the bottom to release the cake onto the wire rack. If you have greased and floured the pan properly, the cake should come out cleanly. Leave the cake on the wire rack to cool completely to room temperature. This process can take about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of your cake and the room temperature.

Tips for Optimal Cooling:

• Use a Wire Rack: It is recommended to use a wire rack for cooling your cake as it allows air to circulate around the cake, promoting even cooling.
• Avoid Drafts or Direct Sunlight: Place the wire rack in an area away from drafts or direct sunlight. This ensures that the cake cools gradually and evenly.
• Don't Rush the Cooling Process: While it might be tempting to speed up the cooling process, especially if you're eager to taste your creation, resist the urge to put the cake in the refrigerator or freezer. Allowing the cake to cool gradually at room temperature is essential for the best texture and taste.
• Covering the Cake: If you need to leave the cake unattended during cooling, consider covering it loosely with a clean kitchen towel to protect it from dust or other contaminants.
• Timing is Key: The ideal time to remove the cake from the pan is when it is cool enough to handle but still slightly warm. This ensures that the cake doesn't stick to the pan and also prevents excess moisture buildup, keeping the crust crisp.

By following these steps and tips, you'll ensure that your banana cake cools properly, resulting in a moist and delicious treat that can be enjoyed by all!

Frequently asked questions