Craving something sweet, chocolatey, and quick to make? Try this delectable mini dark chocolate cake made right in your air fryer! Topped with a luscious brown butter frosting, it’s the perfect treat for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup dark cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Frosting:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add milk, egg, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Bake in Air Fryer: Pour batter into a greased 6-inch cake pan that fits your air fryer. Cook at 320°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool.
- Make the Frosting: Brown the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns a toasty brown and smells nutty. Let it cool slightly. Mix in powdered sugar, 1 tbsp milk, and vanilla extract. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.
- Assemble: Once the cake has cooled, spread the brown butter frosting over the top. Slice and serve!
The Magic of Brown Butter Frosting
The brown butter frosting brings a nutty, caramelized depth that complements the rich dark chocolate cake. Browning butter is a simple yet transformative process, where the butter is melted and cooked until the milk solids turn golden brown, releasing a wonderfully rich and nutty aroma. This frosting not only adds flavor but also a creamy, smooth texture that melts in your mouth.
Air Fryer Baking: Quick and Convenient
Using an air fryer to bake this cake offers a speedy and convenient method, perfect for those sudden dessert cravings or unexpected guests. The compact size of the air fryer ensures quick heating times and even cooking, making it ideal for small-batch baking. Plus, it’s a great way to bake without heating up your entire kitchen.
FAQs
- Can I make this cake in a regular oven?
- Yes, you can bake this cake in a regular oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- How do I know when the brown butter is ready?
- The butter will foam and then begin to brown, releasing a nutty aroma. Watch for golden brown specks to form, and remove from heat to prevent burning.
- Can I use a different type of frosting?
- Absolutely! While the brown butter frosting pairs wonderfully with this cake, you can use your favorite frosting, like chocolate ganache or cream cheese frosting.
- How long can I store this cake?
- This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
Conclusion
This air fryer mini dark chocolate cake with brown butter frosting is a testament to the simplicity and joy of baking. It’s a quick, delicious treat that proves you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to enjoy a slice of something wonderful. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the air fryer, this recipe is sure to delight.