Easy Lemon Drizzle Cake in Air Fryer

Picture this: a golden, moist cake bursting with bright lemon flavor, topped with a glossy drizzle that seeps into every tender crumb. This lemon drizzle cake in air fryer is about to become your new favorite dessert obsession!

Here’s a fun fact: the original lemon drizzle cake was invented in the 1960s by a creative baker who wanted to infuse maximum lemon flavor into every bite. The secret? That magical drizzle that soaks right through the cake!

What makes this recipe truly special is how the air fryer creates the perfect texture – crispy top with an incredibly moist interior. It’s ridiculously simple to make, takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, and uses basic pantry ingredients. Your whole family will be amazed by this bakery-quality dessert.

If you loved our popular air fryer chocolate chip cookies, you’ll absolutely adore this zesty twist! The air fryer method delivers consistent results every single time, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the most incredible lemony aroma!

What is Lemon Drizzle Cake?

Ever wondered why this delightful dessert has such a mysterious name? Well, it’s not rocket science – it’s all about that gorgeous lemon drizzle! This British classic gets its name from the sweet, tangy syrup that’s poured over the warm cake, creating those irresistible sticky patches.

The “drizzle” literally drizzles down through the cake, creating pockets of intense lemon flavor. Some say it’s called “drizzle” because it resembles a gentle rain shower of sweetness! As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this cake has been winning hearts for decades. Ready to create your own lemony masterpiece?

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Drizzle Cake in Air Fryer:

Perfect Texture Every Time

The air fryer creates an incredible contrast – a beautifully golden, slightly crispy top that gives way to the most tender, moist crumb imaginable. The circulating hot air ensures even cooking throughout, eliminating those dreaded dry spots that can plague traditional oven-baked cakes.

Budget-Friendly Home Baking

Making this lemon drizzle cake in air fryer at home costs a fraction of what you’d pay at a fancy bakery. With simple ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and fresh lemons, you can create a dessert that tastes like it came from an expensive patisserie. Plus, you control the quality of every ingredient!

Flavor Explosion in Every Bite

The combination of fresh lemon zest in the batter and that glossy drizzle creates layers of citrus flavor that dance on your taste buds. Each forkful delivers the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with that signature sticky texture that makes lemon drizzle cake so addictive.

This recipe pairs beautifully with our air fryer strawberry shortcake – both showcase how this amazing appliance can create bakery-quality desserts at home. Why not treat yourself to homemade perfection today?

How to Make Lemon Drizzle Cake in Air Fryer:

Quick Overview

This lemon drizzle cake combines simplicity with spectacular results. The air fryer method creates a perfectly moist cake with a delicate crumb and intense lemon flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 8-10 slices

The standout feature is the two-stage lemon experience – fresh zest in the batter and a glossy drizzle that soaks through the warm cake. The air fryer’s consistent temperature ensures even baking without any hot spots.

Key Ingredients for Lemon Drizzle Cake in Air Fryer:

For the Cake:

200g (1⅔ cups) self-raising flour
200g (1 cup) caster sugar
200g (¾ cup + 2 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
4 tablespoons whole milk
Zest of 2 large lemons
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt

For the Drizzle:

Juice of 2 large lemons (about 6 tablespoons)
100g (½ cup) granulated sugar
2 tablespoons water

Equipment:

7-inch round cake tin that fits your air fryer
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or wooden spoon
Small saucepan for drizzle

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare Your Air Fryer Setup Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Grease a 7-inch round cake tin thoroughly with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer). Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract and lemon zest.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together the self-raising flour and salt. Gradually fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined – don’t overmix!

Step 4: Air Fry the Cake Pour the batter into your prepared tin and smooth the top. Place in the air fryer basket and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown.

Step 5: Make the Drizzle While the cake cooks, combine lemon juice, granulated sugar, and water in a small saucepan. Heat gently, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Don’t let it boil – you want a thin syrup consistency.

Step 6: Apply the Magic Drizzle As soon as the cake comes out of the air fryer, poke holes all over the surface with a skewer. Slowly pour the warm drizzle over the cake, allowing it to soak in completely. Let it cool in the tin for 10 minutes before removing.

What to Serve Lemon Drizzle Cake With:

This versatile cake pairs beautifully with several accompaniments. A dollop of freshly whipped cream balances the intense lemon flavor with its rich smoothness. Vanilla ice cream creates a delightful temperature contrast against the warm cake.

For afternoon tea, serve thin slices alongside Earl Grey or English Breakfast tea. The citrus notes complement the tea’s tannins perfectly. Fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries add color and a burst of natural sweetness.

Consider serving with a light dusting of powdered sugar for extra elegance, or pair with lemon curd for those who can’t get enough citrus flavor!

Top Tips for Perfecting Lemon Drizzle Cake in Air Fryer:

Temperature Control is Key

Always preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking. If your cake is browning too quickly on top, cover loosely with foil during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking time.

Fresh Lemon Makes All the Difference

Use fresh lemons rather than bottled juice for the best flavor. Roll lemons on the counter before zesting to release more oils. The zest should be bright yellow with no white pith.

Don’t Skip the Holes

Poking holes in the warm cake isn’t optional – it’s essential! This allows the drizzle to penetrate deep into the cake, creating those signature pockets of intense flavor.

Room Temperature Ingredients

Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and more even texture in the finished cake.

Test for Doneness

Air fryer cooking times can vary, so start checking at 20 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

Store your lemon drizzle cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. The cake actually improves after the first day as the drizzle continues to penetrate the crumb, making it even more moist and flavorful.

For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

To refresh day-old cake, warm individual slices in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes at 300°F (150°C). This restores that just-baked texture while intensifying the lemon aroma.

The cake keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Per Slice (1/8 of cake)
Calories	285
Total Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	7g
Cholesterol	65mg
Sodium	180mg
Total Carbs	45g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	35g
Protein	4g
Vitamin C	8mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different size cake tin?

Yes, but adjust cooking time accordingly. A 6-inch tin will need 25-30 minutes, while an 8-inch tin may only need 18-22 minutes. Always check with a toothpick for doneness.

What if I don’t have self-raising flour?

Make your own by combining 200g plain flour with 2 teaspoons baking powder and ½ teaspoon salt. Whisk together before using.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with vegan butter and use plant-based milk. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Why is my cake dry?

This usually happens from overcooking or overmixing the batter. Check your cake earlier next time, and fold ingredients together gently until just combined.

Can I double this recipe?

It’s better to make two separate cakes rather than doubling the batter in one tin. The air fryer works best with properly sized portions for even cooking.

How do I know when the drizzle has soaked in properly?

The surface should look glossy and slightly sticky, with no pools of liquid sitting on top. This usually takes 10-15 minutes after application.

Creative Variations to Try

Transform this basic recipe into exciting new flavors! Try adding poppy seeds for a classic lemon-poppy combination, or fold in fresh blueberries for a fruity twist.

Create a lime drizzle version using lime zest and juice instead of lemon. For chocolate lovers, add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate-lemon combination.

Make mini cakes using silicone muffin cups – they’ll cook in just 12-15 minutes and make perfect individual servings for parties or gifts.

Air Fryer Success Secrets

Your air fryer is more than just a healthier way to fry – it’s a baking powerhouse! The key to perfect results is understanding how the circulating air affects different recipes.

For cakes, the air fryer creates more even heat distribution than traditional ovens, resulting in consistently moist textures. The compact cooking chamber also means faster cooking times and better energy efficiency.

Always use the correct temperature settings and don’t overcrowd the basket. Your air fryer should have enough space around the cake tin for proper air circulation.

Remember, every air fryer is slightly different, so keep notes about timing and temperature adjustments that work best for your specific model. This will help you achieve perfect results every time!

This lemon drizzle cake in air fryer proves that spectacular desserts don’t require complicated techniques or expensive equipment. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you can create bakery-quality treats that will impress family and friends. The combination of convenience, flavor, and texture makes this recipe an absolute winner for any occasion!