Air Fryer Baking: Delicious Dash Cakes

Air fryers are essentially small, mini convection ovens that use a coil heating element and a mini fan to blow hot air around the inside, cooking the food. They are a great alternative to a traditional oven, especially in small flats or motorhomes, and are faster and more energy-efficient. You can bake cakes in an air fryer, but it can be challenging to get the right balance between a crispy crust and an under-baked centre. The key is to keep it simple: use a basic recipe, a small pan, and a low temperature.

Choosing the right pan

If you are using a bucket-type fryer, a half-size Bundt pan (about 3-cup capacity) is ideal. This type of pan has a centre tube that allows hot air to flow through the centre of the cake, not just around the edges, resulting in more even baking. A 6" round pan is another good option, as it holds half the batter of an 8" square/round or 9" round cake, or a quarter of a sheet cake.

If you want to bake a full-size 8" or 9" round layer cake, you will need to take extra measures to prevent the top from burning while the centre cooks. You can use aluminium foil or a heat-safe frying pan lid to shield the top of the cake.

When preparing your pan, be sure to grease it with shortening and flour, and consider using parchment paper on the bottom to prevent sticking. Cake strips are also optional but helpful in ensuring even baking and preventing the cake from doming in the middle.

Preparing the pan

Firstly, select the right pan size. It is important to choose a cake pan that fits inside the air fryer basket. A pan that is too large will not work, so it is best to measure the inside of the air fryer basket and select a round pan that is smaller. A half-size Bundt pan is ideal, as it allows hot air to circulate through the centre and bake the cake evenly. If you have a smaller air fryer, a 6" round pan is a good option.

Next, prepare the cake pan by greasing it with shortening or another suitable fat. Ensure the shortening covers all the inside surfaces of the pan. Then, add some flour to the pan and tap it around so that the flour coats the shortening. This process is known as 'flouring' the pan. You can also place a round piece of parchment paper at the bottom of the pan for extra precaution to prevent the cake from sticking.

Now, fill the pan with your cake batter. Fill it a little over halfway full. If you have a cake strip, this is the time to use it. Soak the cake strip in water, wring it out, and then place it around your pan. Cake strips are optional but helpful as they promote even baking and prevent the cake from doming and cracking in the middle.

With the pan prepared, you are now ready to proceed to the next steps of baking your cake in the Dash air fryer!

Filling the pan

If you have any cake batter remaining, you have a few options. You can fill up the cake pan only halfway full and then, once it is cooked, fill up the pan again with the remaining batter. Alternatively, you can make cupcakes with the leftover batter.

Setting the air fryer

Choosing the Right Air Fryer Settings:

• Temperature: Set your air fryer to 350°F (176°C). This temperature is ideal for cakes and will ensure even baking.
• Timer: Depending on the size and type of cake you're baking, set the timer accordingly. For a small cake, start with 17 to 18 minutes. Larger cakes may take up to 25 minutes or more. You can always add more time if needed.
• Preheating: Allow your air fryer to preheat for 1 to 3 minutes before placing the cake pan inside. This ensures the air fryer reaches the desired temperature for optimal cooking.

Preparing the Air Fryer Basket:

• Basket Removal: After preheating, carefully remove the air fryer basket. Most air fryers have a removable basket for easy access.
• Cake Pan Placement: Place your cake pan inside the basket. Ensure the cake pan is small enough to fit comfortably inside the basket. A pan that is too large may not cook evenly.
• Basket Reinsertion: Gently slide the basket back into the air fryer, being careful not to spill or jostle the cake batter.

Monitoring and Adjusting During Baking:

• Check for Doneness: After the initial baking time, slide out the basket and check if your cake is done. Insert a toothpick into the centre of the cake; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. If not, return the basket to the air fryer and bake for an additional 5 to 8 minutes.
• Prevent Over-browning: If your cake is getting too brown on top but is not yet cooked through, cover it with aluminium foil before placing it back in the air fryer. This will prevent further browning while allowing the centre to cook.

Remember, every air fryer model is slightly different, so you may need to experiment with settings and timings to find what works best for your particular Dash air fryer model.

Checking the cake

Be very careful when handling the basket and cake pan as they will be extremely hot. If the cake is not done but is getting too brown on top, place a piece of aluminium foil over it and continue cooking. If your air fryer pan has a handle, do not grab it without wearing an oven mitt or silicone mitt.

Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool down in the pan for about 10 to 12 minutes. Then, remove the cake from the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.

Frequently asked questions