Every time I make this Air Fryer Fruit Cake, it reminds me of those cozy Sunday dinners with family and friends. You know the kind: laughter fills the air, the table is set with care, and the tantalizing aroma of warm cake wafts through the house. It’s these little moments that bring great joy, and once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why. The delightful blend of flavors—combined with the moist texture of the cake—makes it a true comfort food that holds a special place in my heart. Join me as we embark on this delicious journey together, and I’m sure it will become a cherished recipe in your home as well!
How to make Air Fryer Fruit Cake
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need to create this lovely cake. Each ingredient plays a vital role in bringing out the rich, heartwarming flavors.
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (e.g., raisins, sultanas, currants, chopped dates, and dried cherries) – These little gems add soul to the cake, making it sweet and chewy.
- 1/2 cup orange juice (or apple juice) – The juice brings a touch of brightness that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – This ingredient provides richness and moisture.
- 3/4 cup brown sugar – Not only does it sweeten the cake, but it gives it a delightful depth of flavor.
- 2 large eggs – Essential for binding the cake together and adding structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – This adds warmth and harmony to the cake’s flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the necessary structure and texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cake rise beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Works alongside the baking powder for a light and fluffy cake.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Ah, the aroma of cinnamon! It adds a familiar warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Just a hint of nutmeg creates a lovely spice balance.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves – A little goes a long way, and it adds an aromatic note.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional) – I love the crunch they offer, but feel free to skip them if you prefer!
- 1/4 cup chopped candied peel (optional) – Adds a touch of citrus sweetness.
Cooking Steps:
Let’s get started on our delicious Air Fryer Fruit Cake! Don’t worry; I’ll guide you through it step by step.
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Soaking the Dried Fruits: Begin by gathering your mixed dried fruits and a bowl. Combine the fruits with the orange juice and let them soak for at least 1 hour. If you have time, soaking them overnight is even better and will enhance their flavor.
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Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 5 minutes. Trust me, this is important for achieving that perfect cake texture!
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Prepare the Cake Pan: Take a 6-inch round cake pan, line it with parchment paper, and lightly grease it. This will help your cake come out easily once it’s baked.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar. Mix until it becomes light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into your mixture, creating a lovely texture!
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Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is well incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract; it smells heavenly!
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Sift the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This not only removes lumps but also helps combine the baking powder and baking soda evenly throughout.
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Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Don’t overmix; we want to keep it light and fluffy!
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Incorporate the Soaked Fruits: Stir in the soaked fruits along with any leftover juice. Also, toss in the chopped nuts and candied peel if you’re using them. This mix will create such a beautiful array of colors and flavors in your cake!
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Pour the Batter into the Cake Pan: Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. It’s such a lovely, thick batter!
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Air Fry the Cake: Carefully place the cake pan into the air fryer basket. Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aromas wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!
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Cool the Cake: Once done, remove the cake from the air fryer and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Your patience will be rewarded!
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Slice and Enjoy: Once cooled, slice the cake into generous pieces and prepare for a taste of nostalgia!
Why I Love Making This Dish:
This Air Fryer Fruit Cake is special to me because it brings back memories of my own family gatherings. I remember my grandmother making a similar cake, filling our home with love and warmth as the delightful scent drifted through the air. It has this magical way of creating connections—whether it’s sharing a slice with friends over coffee or serving it after a big family meal. You can feel the love with every bite!
What You’ll Need:
Apart from the ingredients, you’ll need a few things to make this recipe a success: an air fryer, a 6-inch round cake pan, and mixing bowls. Not to mention a reliable spatula and measuring cups! Simple tools that you probably already have in your kitchen.
Tips for Perfect Results:
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature. It makes creaming it with the sugar a breeze!
- Be careful not to overmix when you combine the wet and dry ingredients. This keeps your cake light and fluffy.
- Check your cake a few minutes before the timer goes off. Every air fryer is a little different, and you don’t want to overbake!
Serving Suggestions and Sides:
I love serving this Air Fryer Fruit Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It adds a creamy contrast that elevates the dish completely. You could also pair it with a cup of warm tea or spiced cider—perfect for those chilly evenings when you snuggle up on the couch!
Leftovers:
If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers—that is a big "if"!—you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, simply slice a piece and pop it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. It’s fantastic warm!
FAQ Section:
Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit? You can, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Dried fruit keeps its flavor concentrated and adds the right sweetness and texture. Fresh fruit may make the cake soggy.
What if I don’t have an air fryer? You can absolutely make this cake in a conventional oven. Preheat it to 325°F (163°C) and bake for about 45-50 minutes. Just keep an eye on it!
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Definitely! It keeps well, so it’s perfect for making ahead of time. You can bake it a day or two before your gathering. Just store it properly!
Conclusion:
I can’t tell you how excited I am for you to try this Air Fryer Fruit Cake! It has quickly become a favorite in my house, and I’m confident it will warm your heart just as it has mine. It’s not just about the delicious flavor—it’s about what we create around our tables. Each bite is filled with joy, nostalgia, and love. If your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time, you’ll know you’ve made something truly special. Enjoy your baking adventure, and don’t forget to let me know how it turns out!