Air fryer homemade sponge cake is a light, fluffy, and airy dessert that delivers the same soft texture as a traditional oven-baked sponge cake, but with faster cooking and less energy use. The air fryer circulates hot air evenly, helping the cake rise beautifully while forming a delicate golden top and a soft, springy crumb inside.
What makes sponge cake special is its simplicity—eggs, sugar, flour, and a bit of fat come together to create a batter that traps air when whipped properly. That trapped air is what gives the cake its signature “spongy” texture. In the air fryer, this structure sets quickly, so the cake stays tall, soft, and moist when done correctly.
This cake is highly versatile and can be served plain with tea, layered with whipped cream and fruit, or used as a base for more elaborate desserts. Because it’s mildly sweet and light, it pairs well with many toppings without feeling heavy or overly rich.
With the air fryer, sponge cake becomes a convenient option for small-batch baking. It’s ideal when you don’t want to turn on a full oven, yet still want a fresh homemade cake in under an hour.
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (65 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons milk (optional, for softness)
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 160°C (320°F) for 3–5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, beat eggs and sugar together for 5–8 minutes until pale, thick, and fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and melted butter, mixing gently.
- Sift in flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold gently to keep the air in the batter.
- Add milk if needed for a smoother consistency.
- Pour batter into a greased and parchment-lined air fryer-safe pan.
- Tap lightly to remove air bubbles.
- Air fry for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before removing from the pan.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per slice (based on 8 slices):
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Total Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Total Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Sugars: 12 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 60 mg
- Net Carbs: ~21 g
