Air Fryer Lemon Drizzle Cake

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Air Fryer Lemon Drizzle Cake 🍋

The Perfect Zesty Treat with a Modern Twist

Introduction

Lemon drizzle cake is one of the most beloved classics in British baking. It’s light, moist, and infused with the fresh zing of lemons—perfect for afternoon tea, family gatherings, or just a personal pick-me-up. Traditionally baked in ovens, the lemon drizzle cake has taken on a delightful modern upgrade by being adapted for the air fryer. This convenient countertop appliance is not just for frying—it can bake beautiful cakes with less hassle and more speed than your conventional oven.

With the air fryer’s compact cooking chamber and rapid hot air circulation, baking becomes more efficient and energy-conscious. This is especially true for small to medium-sized cakes. If you’re short on time, don’t want to heat up your whole kitchen, or just enjoy the simplicity of baking in a new way, this Air Fryer Lemon Drizzle Cake recipe is your ideal solution.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn not only how to make the perfect lemon drizzle cake in your air fryer but also everything you need to know about preparing your ingredients, choosing the right equipment, troubleshooting common problems, and even creative ways to customize your cake.

Whether you’re an air fryer novice or a seasoned user, this recipe will become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Let’s dive in and unlock the magic of zesty lemon delight with an air fryer twist.

The Magic Behind Lemon Drizzle Cake

What makes a lemon drizzle cake so appealing is its balance of flavors and textures. The sponge is fluffy and light, while the lemon syrup drizzled over the top adds moistness and that signature citrus zing. It’s both sweet and tangy, creating a mouth-watering harmony.

In this recipe, the air fryer ensures even cooking and a beautiful golden crust, without drying the cake out. The smaller baking environment allows for quicker cooking times and reduced energy use. Plus, it gives you a moist cake with a crisp, slightly caramelized edge—a unique feature of air fryer baking.

Equipment You’ll Need

Before getting started, make sure you have the right tools on hand:

  • Air fryer with baking function (basket-style or oven-style models work)

  • 6-inch or 7-inch cake pan that fits inside your air fryer

  • Mixing bowls

  • Electric mixer or whisk

  • Citrus zester

  • Juicer or fork for extracting lemon juice

  • Pastry brush (optional, for drizzling)

  • Toothpick or cake tester

Ingredients for Air Fryer Lemon Drizzle Cake

For the Cake:

  • 150g (3/4 cup) unsalted butter, softened

  • 150g (3/4 cup) caster sugar

  • 3 medium eggs

  • 150g (1 1/4 cup) self-raising flour, sifted

  • Zest of 2 lemons

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

For the Drizzle:

  • 100g (1/2 cup) icing sugar

  • Juice of 1 large lemon

Optional Glaze (for extra shine):

  • 50g (1/4 cup) icing sugar

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pan

  • Grease the cake pan with butter or line it with parchment paper.

  • Make sure it fits snugly inside your air fryer without touching the sides.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

  • In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).

  • This step is crucial for a light sponge.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

  • Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well between each addition.

  • If the mixture begins to curdle, add a spoonful of flour to bring it back together.

Step 4: Fold in the Flour and Flavorings

  • Sift the self-raising flour into the bowl.

  • Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.

  • Fold gently using a spatula or wooden spoon until well combined. Don’t overmix.

Step 5: Pour into the Pan

  • Spoon the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top.

Step 6: Bake in the Air Fryer

  • Preheat the air fryer to 160°C (320°F) for 3 minutes.

  • Place the cake pan into the basket or tray.

  • Bake for 25–30 minutes, checking at the 20-minute mark.

  • To test doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Note: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.

Step 7: Make the Drizzle

  • While the cake is baking, combine the icing sugar and lemon juice in a bowl to make the drizzle syrup.

Step 8: Add the Drizzle

  • As soon as the cake comes out of the air fryer, pierce it several times with a toothpick.

  • Pour the lemon drizzle slowly over the hot cake, allowing it to soak in.

Step 9: Cool and Optional Glaze

  • Let the cake cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes.

  • For extra shine and sweetness, mix the optional glaze and pour over the cooled cake.

Tips for Success

Choosing Lemons:

  • Always use fresh lemons. The zest and juice are the stars of this recipe.

  • Organic lemons are best if available, as the peel is free of wax and pesticides.

Preventing a Burnt Top:

  • If your air fryer tends to brown too quickly, cover the top of the cake loosely with foil halfway through baking.

Don’t Overmix:

  • Gentle folding after adding the flour is key to keeping the cake airy.

Storage:

  • Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • It freezes beautifully too—wrap in foil and store in a freezer bag for up to 1 month.

Variations and Customizations

Once you’ve mastered the classic air fryer lemon drizzle cake, try experimenting with these fun twists:

1. Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

  • Add 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds to the batter for added texture and a nutty flavor.

2. Lemon and Raspberry

  • Gently fold in a handful of fresh or frozen raspberries before baking.

3. Gluten-Free Lemon Cake

  • Substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free alternative and a pinch of xanthan gum.

4. Vegan Lemon Cake

  • Replace eggs with flax eggs or a plant-based yogurt and use dairy-free butter.

5. Lemon Coconut Cake

  • Add 1/4 cup of desiccated coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, approx. 10 slices)

  • Calories: 215

  • Fat: 9g

  • Carbohydrates: 31g

  • Sugar: 22g

  • Protein: 3g

  • Fiber: 0.5g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredients used.

Air Fryer Cake FAQs

Can I bake other types of cake in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Chocolate cake, carrot cake, banana bread—nearly any cake can be air fried with a few adjustments.

What if my air fryer doesn’t have a bake setting?

Use the regular air fry function at a slightly lower temperature (150–160°C) and monitor carefully.

Can I double the recipe?

Only if your air fryer is large enough. Otherwise, bake in two batches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: From start to finish in under 45 minutes.

  • Minimal Cleanup: Fewer pans, less mess.

  • Perfect Results: Moist center, crisp edges.

  • Customizable: Endless flavor variations.

  • Energy Efficient: Ideal for single servings or small households.

Conclusion

The Air Fryer Lemon Drizzle Cake is proof that traditional recipes can be effortlessly transformed for modern kitchens. This zesty, sweet, and beautifully moist cake is not only quick and easy to make in your air fryer but also just as delicious—if not more so—than the oven-baked version. Whether you’re baking for a gathering, a gift, or simply treating yourself, this cake delivers comfort, flavor, and that irresistible lemony tang in every bite.

With the growing popularity of air fryers, experimenting with baked goods like this opens up a world of culinary possibilities. So the next time you’re craving a comforting dessert with a citrus kick, skip the oven and let your air fryer do the magic.

Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share a slice (or keep it all to yourself—we won’t tell 😉).

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