What To Know
- This method offers a quicker cook time and uses less energy compared to traditional baking, making it a perfect choice for everyday baking.
- If the batter seems too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time, mixing until it reaches a smooth, dropping consistency.
- Remove the cake from the air fryer and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Are you craving a classic Victoria sponge cake but don’t have an oven? Fear not! This guide will walk you through the simple steps of baking a delicious Victoria sponge in your trusty air fryer. This method offers a quicker cook time and uses less energy compared to traditional baking, making it a perfect choice for everyday baking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start whipping up your air fryer Victoria sponge, gather the following ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 225g self-raising flour
- 225g unsalted butter, softened
- 225g caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Milk, for adjusting the batter consistency
- For the Filling:
- 250g strawberry jam
- 250g whipped double cream
Preparing Your Air Fryer
Ensure your air fryer is clean and ready for baking. You might need to use an air fryer-safe cake pan or a springform pan. For the best results, line your pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Mixing the Batter
1. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer for this step to save time and effort.
2. Add Eggs Gradually: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. If the mixture starts to curdle, add a tablespoon of milk to help it bind.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined.
4. Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract for a hint of fragrant sweetness.
5. Adjust Batter Consistency: If the batter seems too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time, mixing until it reaches a smooth, dropping consistency.
Baking in the Air Fryer
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 175°C (350°F).
2. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
3. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the air fryer and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Assembling the Victoria Sponge
1. Slice the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, slice it horizontally into two even layers.
2. Spread the Filling: Spread the strawberry jam evenly over one layer of the cake.
3. Add the Cream: Top the jam with whipped cream, spreading it smoothly.
4. Stack the Layers: Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the cream.
Decorating Your Victoria Sponge
While the classic Victoria sponge is beautiful in its simplicity, feel free to add your own personal touch. Here are some ideas:
- Dust with Icing Sugar: A light dusting of icing sugar adds a touch of elegance.
- Add Fresh Berries: Garnish with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a vibrant touch.
- Drizzle with Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a decadent finish.
Tips for Air Fryer Baking
- Don’t Overfill the Pan: Avoid overfilling the pan as it may affect the cake’s even cooking.
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining the pan with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Check for Doneness: Use a skewer to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before assembling to prevent the cream from melting.
The Final Touch: A Delicious Treat
Your air fryer Victoria sponge is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Variations
While the classic Victoria sponge is a delicious treat, you can experiment with different flavors and fillings. Here are some ideas:
- Lemon Victoria Sponge: Add zest of one lemon to the batter and use lemon curd instead of strawberry jam.
- Chocolate Victoria Sponge: Use cocoa powder in the batter and a chocolate ganache filling.
- Raspberry Victoria Sponge: Swap the strawberry jam for raspberry jam and add fresh raspberries to the cream.
A Final Word: Baking with Joy
Baking a Victoria sponge in your air fryer is a simple and rewarding experience. With a few easy steps, you can enjoy a delicious, homemade cake that will impress your loved ones. Experiment with different flavors and fillings to create your own unique variations. Happy baking!
Information You Need to Know
Q: Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
A: While self-raising flour is recommended for this recipe, you can use all-purpose flour with the addition of 2 teaspoons of baking powder.
Q: Can I bake the cake in a round air fryer basket?
A: Yes, you can bake the cake in a round air fryer basket. Just ensure the basket is large enough to accommodate the batter and the cake doesn’t touch the sides or the heating element.
Q: How long can I store the Victoria sponge?
A: The sponge cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I make the Victoria sponge ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time. Simply assemble it and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. However, it’s best to add the whipped cream just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.
