Air Fryer Lemon Cake Recipe

Description

This Air Fryer Lemon Cake is a moist, fluffy, and zesty dessert that is quick and easy to make. With a burst of fresh lemon flavor, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Using an air fryer reduces cooking time and ensures an even bake with a golden brown crust. Whether served plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or topped with a tangy lemon glaze, this cake is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup milk

For the Lemon Glaze (Optional):

½ cup powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer and Cake Pan

Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 5 minutes.
Grease a 6-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk melted butter, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and milk until well combined.

Step 4: Combine and Mix

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
Place the pan in the air fryer basket and bake at 320°F (160°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Glaze

Let the cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer it to a wire rack.
If using the glaze, mix powdered sugar and lemon juice, then drizzle over the cooled cake.

Serving Suggestions

Serve plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with fresh berries.
Add whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Servings: 6–8 slices

Nutritional Info (Per Slice)

(Based on 8 servings, without glaze)

Calories: 220 kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Sugar: 16g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 110mg

Benefits of Air Fryer Lemon Cake

Quick & Easy – Faster than traditional oven baking.
Energy Efficient – Uses less electricity compared to an oven.
Healthier Option – Requires less oil, reducing overall fat content.
Fresh Lemon Flavor – Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants.
Soft & Moist Texture – Thanks to the air fryer’s even heat distribution.

Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Lemon Cake

Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
Don’t overmix the batter to avoid a dense cake.
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
Use a small cake pan that fits inside your air fryer basket (6-inch or 7-inch works best).
Adjust cooking time depending on your air fryer model; some may cook faster.

Q&A

Q1: Can I use a different flour?

Yes! You can use gluten-free flour or almond flour for a gluten-free version, but the texture may vary.

Q2: How do I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Q3: Can I make this cake without eggs?

Yes, substitute each egg with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water.

Q4: Can I double the recipe?

You can, but you’ll need to bake in batches or use a larger air fryer-friendly pan.

Q5: Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, replace butter with coconut oil and milk with almond or oat milk.

This Air Fryer Lemon Cake is light, tangy, and irresistibly delicious. Give it a try and enjoy a perfectly baked dessert with minimal effort! 🍋✨