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Step-by-Step Instructions for Air Fryer Christmas Cake
1. Prepare Your Air Fryer and Cake Pan
Before you start mixing, make sure your air fryer is preheated. Set it to 320°F (160°C) and let it heat up for about 5 minutes.
Next, prepare a round cake pan that will fit inside your air fryer basket. You can use a 7-inch or 8-inch round cake pan (depending on the size of your air fryer). Grease the pan with butter or cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper to make sure the cake doesn’t stick.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for this step. The butter should be soft enough to mix easily but not melted.
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. Continue mixing until everything is fully combined.
5. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients and Milk
Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in small batches, alternating with the milk. Begin with the dry ingredients, then add a little milk, mixing until just combined. Repeat until all the ingredients are incorporated into a smooth batter.
6. Add the Fruit and Nuts
Fold in the dried fruit, nuts, and glacé cherries (if using). These ingredients add great texture, flavor, and color to the cake. Ensure that they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour the Batter into the Cake Pan
Pour the prepared batter into the greased cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to make sure it’s evenly distributed.
8. Bake in the Air Fryer
Place the cake pan into the preheated air fryer basket. Bake the cake at 320°F (160°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Baking times may vary depending on the size and model of your air fryer, so be sure to check the cake after 25 minutes.
9. Cool the Cake
Once the cake is baked, carefully remove the cake pan from the air fryer. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Decorate and Serve
Once the cake has cooled, you can decorate it with a light dusting of powdered sugar or icing sugar to give it a festive touch. If you prefer, you can also top it with whipped cream or a simple glaze.
Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Christmas Cake
- Check for doneness: Since air fryer baking times can vary, make sure to check the cake after 25 minutes by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
- Add a festive twist: For an extra holiday touch, try adding some chopped crystallized ginger or a handful of chopped dark chocolate to the batter.
- Storage: This cake stays moist and delicious for several days. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge if you want it to last a little longer.
Why This Air Fryer Christmas Cake is Perfect for the Holidays
- Quick and Easy: You don’t have to wait for the oven to preheat or bake for long. The air fryer makes the process fast and simple, without compromising flavor.
- Small Batch: This recipe makes a smaller, more manageable cake, ideal for those who don’t want to bake a large cake or have limited space in the oven.
- Deliciously Festive: The combination of warm spices, dried fruit, and nuts makes this cake the perfect addition to your Christmas celebration. It’s cozy, comforting, and full of holiday flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Christmas Cake is a delightful and easy way to celebrate the holiday season with a homemade treat. Whether you’re short on time, space, or just want to try something new, the air fryer will help you create a perfect, festive cake in no time. With its warm spices, fruity additions, and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a new holiday favorite in your household.
So, dust off your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and stress-free holiday dessert!
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