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Air Fryer Chocolate Cake with Crispy Edges

A rich, fudgy chocolate cake made in the air fryer with a velvety center and delightfully crunchy edges, ready in under 25 minutes.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Course air fryer cake recipes, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 380 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
  • 1/4 cup 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup milk any kind

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your air fryer to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 6-inch round cake pan or a large ramekin with butter or nonstick spray.
  • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chopped chocolate and butter together in 20-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth. Let cool slightly.
  • Whisk in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined and glossy.
  • Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and salt into the chocolate mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined — do not overmix.
  • Pour in the milk and fold it in until the batter is smooth and thick.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  • Place the pan in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. A toothpick inserted near the edge should come out with moist crumbs.
  • Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Run a knife around the edge, then invert onto a plate or serve directly from the pan. Enjoy warm for best texture.

Notes

1. For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil instead of butter and oat milk instead of regular milk.
2. Ensure your chocolate is dairy-free.
3. Store leftovers tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to 2 days.
4. Reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for 3 minutes to restore crispy edges.
5. This cake can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
6. If your air fryer runs hot, reduce the temperature to 300°F and check at 8 minutes.
7. Serve with ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries for a complete dessert.