Making a homemade Christmas cake in the air fryer is a wonderful way to enjoy this festive treat with a quicker cooking time and a deliciously moist result. Here’s a detailed recipe to guide you through making a traditional Christmas cake using your air fryer.
Air Fryer Christmas Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups mixed dried fruit (such as raisins, currants, and sultanas)
- 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (or your preferred nuts)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup brandy (or apple juice for a non-alcoholic option)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped glacé cherries (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped crystallized ginger (optional)
For Decoration (optional):
- Marzipan
- Royal icing or fondant
Equipment:
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Cake pan (that fits in your air fryer, usually 6 or 7 inches)
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer (or whisk)
- Spatula
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake Mixture:
1.1. Preheat Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 5 minutes.
1.2. Soak the Fruit:
- In a bowl, mix the dried fruit, dried apricots, and chopped nuts. Add 2 tablespoons of brandy or apple juice and let it soak while you prepare the other ingredients.
1.3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
1.4. Add Eggs:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
1.5. Mix in Wet Ingredients:
- Stir in the orange juice, remaining brandy (or apple juice), and vanilla extract.
1.6. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt.
1.7. Combine Mixtures:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
1.8. Fold in Fruits:
- Gently fold in the soaked fruit mixture, glacé cherries, and crystallized ginger if using.
2. Prepare the Cake Pan:
2.1. Line Pan:
- Line the cake pan with parchment paper. If you’re using a non-stick pan, you can lightly grease it instead.
2.2. Pour Batter:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
3. Air Fry the Cake:
3.1. Place in Air Fryer:
- Place the cake pan in the air fryer basket. Ensure there’s enough space around the pan for proper air circulation.
3.2. Cook:
- Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 25-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The exact time may vary depending on your air fryer and the size of your cake pan.
3.3. Cool:
- Once done, remove the cake from the air fryer and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Decorate the Cake (Optional):
4.1. Apply Marzipan:
- If using marzipan, roll it out and cover the cooled cake, smoothing it with your hands.
4.2. Add Icing:
- Decorate with royal icing or fondant as desired.
5. Serve:
5.1. Enjoy:
- Slice and enjoy your homemade air fryer Christmas cake. It’s perfect for the festive season or any special occasion.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Christmas Cake:
- Check for Doneness Early: Start checking the cake for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time to avoid overcooking.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure the cake pan fits comfortably in the air fryer to allow proper air circulation.
- Let It Cool Completely: Let the cake cool completely before decorating to prevent the icing from melting or slipping.
This air fryer Christmas cake is a delightful twist on a traditional favorite, offering a moist, flavorful treat with a crisp outer layer. Enjoy baking and celebrating with this festive and easy-to-make cake!