Chocolate Lovers’ Dream Cake (Air Fryer Version)
Introduction
Calling all chocoholics! This Chocolate Lovers’ Dream Cake is the ultimate dessert fantasy — soft, rich, and deeply chocolatey. The best part? It’s made in the air fryer, cutting down on bake time and keeping your kitchen cool. It’s perfect for celebrations, romantic dinners, or when you’re just craving something luxurious. Don’t be surprised if it disappears in a flash!
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 20 mins
Air Fry Time: 30–35 mins
Total Time: ~1 hour (includes cooling & ganache)
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar (for extra moisture)
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
½ cup whole milk (or buttermilk for tang)
¼ cup vegetable oil
½ cup hot water or hot brewed coffee (boosts the chocolate flavor)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Ganache Topping:
½ cup heavy cream
¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
1 tablespoon butter (for extra shine)
Instructions
Prepare the Air Fryer Cake Pan:
Use a 6-inch round cake pan (or whatever fits your air fryer basket). Grease it well with butter or line the bottom with parchment paper.
Mix the Cake Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugars, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix just until combined.
Slowly pour in the hot water or coffee, stirring as you go. The batter will be thin — that’s normal!
Air Fry the Cake:
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan.
Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for 3 minutes.
Place the cake pan in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Note: Check around the 28-minute mark to avoid overbaking. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
Make the Ganache:
Heat the cream in a small saucepan or microwave until just simmering.
Pour over the chocolate chips and butter in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
Let the ganache cool slightly until thickened but still pourable.
Assemble the Dream Cake:
Once the cake has cooled, pour the ganache over the top. Let it drip down the sides for that dreamy, glossy finish.
Optional: Top with shaved chocolate, mini chocolate chips, or chocolate curls for extra flair.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Add fresh berries for a tart contrast.
Drizzle with a bit of salted caramel if you’re feeling extra.
Storage:
Room temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Fridge: Up to 5 days. Bring to room temp before serving for best texture.
Freezer: Freeze slices (wrapped well) for up to 2 months.