Fluffy Air Fryer Sponge Cake Recipe in Under 20 Minutes
Craving a light, airy, and perfectly golden sponge cake that’s ready in half the time? This air fryer sponge cake recipe delivers all the fluffy goodness of traditional baking with incredible speed and convenience. Did you know that sponge cakes were first created in the Renaissance era as a way to showcase expensive sugar?
Today, we’re making this classic treat accessible to everyone with modern air fryer technology. This recipe is special because it eliminates the guesswork of oven baking while creating that coveted tender crumb we all love.
Just like our popular air fryer banana bread, this cake proves that air fryers aren’t just for savory dishes – they’re cake-baking champions too!
What is Air Fryer Sponge Cake recipe?
Ever wondered why we call it “sponge” cake when it’s clearly not meant for washing dishes? This delightfully named dessert gets its moniker from its incredibly light, airy texture that resembles a sponge’s ability to absorb moisture.
The magic happens when eggs are whipped to perfection, creating tiny air bubbles that give the cake its signature bounce. As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and nothing says love like a homemade sponge cake that’s impossibly soft and sweet. Ready to create some kitchen magic?
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Sponge Cake recipe:
Lightning-Fast Results
This air fryer method cuts your baking time in half while delivering consistent, evenly baked results every single time. The circulating hot air creates that perfect golden crust while keeping the interior incredibly moist and tender.
Budget-Friendly Baking
Skip expensive bakery visits and create this delicious treat using simple pantry staples. You’ll save money while controlling every ingredient, ensuring a healthier, preservative-free dessert that tastes infinitely better than store-bought alternatives.
Endless Flavor Possibilities
The neutral vanilla base welcomes countless variations – from zesty lemon and rich chocolate chips to fresh berries and aromatic spices. Like our beloved air fryer chocolate chip cookies, this recipe serves as a canvas for your creativity.
Transform your kitchen into a bakery today and discover why homemade always wins!
How to Make Air Fryer Sponge Cake recipe:
Quick Overview
This incredibly simple recipe requires just basic mixing techniques and your trusty air fryer. The key is properly whipping the eggs to create maximum volume and carefully folding in dry ingredients to maintain that airy texture.
Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cooling Time: 5 minutes
Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Sponge Cake Recipe:
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 75g (1/3 cup) caster sugar
- 75g (2/3 cup) self-raising flour
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (cooled)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for extra moisture)
- Butter or oil for greasing
Pro tip: Room temperature eggs whip better and create more volume than cold eggs.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment Preheat your air fryer to 160°C (320°F). Grease a 6-inch round cake pan that fits comfortably in your air fryer basket. Lightly dust with flour, tapping out excess.
Step 2: Create the Base In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add caster sugar. Using an electric whisk, beat for 4-5 minutes until the mixture becomes pale, thick, and tripled in volume. The mixture should leave a trail when lifted.
Step 3: Add Flavoring Gently fold in vanilla extract and melted butter using a large spoon or spatula. Be careful not to overmix as this can deflate your carefully created air bubbles.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients Sift the self-raising flour and salt directly over the egg mixture. Using a gentle folding motion, gradually incorporate the flour until just combined. Add milk if using, folding just once more.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection Pour batter into your prepared pan and place in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 3 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
What to Serve Air Fryer Sponge Cake recipe With:
Sweet Accompaniments:
- Fresh whipped cream and seasonal berries
- Homemade jam or lemon curd
- Dusting of powdered sugar
- Vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert
Beverage Pairings:
- Earl Grey or English Breakfast tea
- Fresh coffee or cappuccino
- Cold milk for the kids
- Sparkling water with lemon
Creative Serving Ideas:
- Layer with fresh fruit for a simple trifle
- Slice and toast for breakfast with butter
- Create individual portions with mini ramekins
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Sponge Cake recipe:
Temperature Control is Key
Always preheat your air fryer and maintain consistent temperature. Too high heat will create a tough exterior before the interior cooks properly.
Egg Whipping Technique
Achieve maximum volume by ensuring eggs are at room temperature and beating until they reach the “ribbon stage” – when lifted batter falls in thick ribbons.
Gentle Folding Method
Fold ingredients using a cutting and folding motion from bottom to top. This preserves air bubbles while ensuring even distribution.
Pan Preparation Matters
Properly grease and flour your pan to prevent sticking. Consider using parchment paper for foolproof release.
Don’t Overmix
Stop mixing as soon as ingredients are just combined. Overmixing develops gluten and creates a dense, tough cake.
Test for Doneness
Use a toothpick or cake tester inserted in the center. It should come out with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Room Temperature Storage: Store covered for up to 2 days at room temperature. Wrap in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain moisture.
Refrigerator Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days. Allow to come to room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.
Freezing Instructions: Wrap individual slices or whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Methods:
- Air fryer: 2-3 minutes at 150°C (300°F)
- Microwave: 15-20 seconds for individual slices
- Oven: 5 minutes at 160°C (320°F) wrapped in foil
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Slice (1/8 cake) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 125 |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Sugar | 12g |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
| Sodium | 95mg |
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use plain flour instead of self-raising flour?
Yes! Add 1 teaspoon of baking powder to 75g plain flour. Sift together twice to ensure even distribution.
Why did my sponge cake turn out dense?
Dense cakes usually result from overmixing or using cold eggs. Ensure eggs are room temperature and fold ingredients gently.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Replace butter with coconut oil and use plant-based milk. The texture remains wonderfully light.
How do I know when my cake is properly done?
The cake should spring back when lightly touched and pull slightly away from pan edges. A toothpick should come out with minimal crumbs.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook in batches or use a larger pan if your air fryer accommodates it. Cooking time may increase slightly.
What if I don’t have an electric whisk?
Hand whisking is possible but requires significant effort and time. Expect 8-10 minutes of vigorous whisking to achieve proper volume.
Can I add chocolate chips or fruit?
Certainly! Fold in 2-3 tablespoons of mini chocolate chips or small fruit pieces after adding flour.
Why is my cake sticking to the pan?
Ensure proper greasing and consider using parchment paper. Allow the cake to cool slightly before attempting to remove.
Recipe Variations to Try:
Lemon Sponge Cake: Add zest of 1 lemon and replace vanilla with lemon extract for a bright, citrusy twist.
Chocolate Sponge Cake: Replace 15g flour with unsweetened cocoa powder for rich chocolate flavor.
Berry Sponge Cake: Gently fold in 2 tablespoons of dried berries or mini fresh berries before baking.
Almond Sponge Cake: Replace vanilla with almond extract and add 1 tablespoon ground almonds to the flour.
This air fryer sponge cake recipe proves that delicious homemade desserts don’t require complicated techniques or lengthy baking times. With just a few simple ingredients and your air fryer, you’ll create bakery-quality results that will have everyone asking for the recipe. The beauty lies in its simplicity – perfect for beginners yet sophisticated enough to impress guests.
Remember, baking is both science and art. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Each air fryer behaves slightly differently, so adjust timing and temperature as needed. Soon, you’ll be creating consistently beautiful air fryer sponge cakes that rival any professional bakery.
Happy baking, and enjoy every fluffy, delicious bite!
