This easy Air Fryer Apple and Raisin Cake is a delicious homemade dessert made with tender apple slices, sweet raisins, and a soft vanilla cake batter.
The apples are arranged beautifully on the bottom of the pan before the cake batter is poured over them, creating a lovely fruit-topped finish when the cake is turned out.
Made with simple pantry ingredients and ready in around 30 minutes, this cozy apple cake is perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, dessert, or a quick homemade treat.
Recipe Overview
| Category | Details |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25–30 minutes |
| Total Time | About 40 minutes |
| Servings | 6–8 |
| Cuisine | Homemade / European-inspired |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cooking Method | Air Fryer |
| Air Fryer Temperature | 320°F (160°C) |
Ingredients
For the Apple and Raisin Layer
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Medium apples | 2 |
| Raisins | 50 g |
For the Cake Batter
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Granulated sugar | 60 g |
| Milk | 100 ml |
| Melted butter | 50 g |
| All-purpose flour | 150 g |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Vanilla extract or ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
You can use vegetable oil instead of melted butter if preferred.
For Finishing
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Powdered sugar | As needed |
| Ground cinnamon | As needed |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Air Fryer Pan
Preheat your Air Fryer to 320°F (160°C), if your model requires preheating.
Line the bottom of a suitable Air Fryer-safe cake pan with a circle of parchment paper, or lightly grease the pan with butter or cooking spray.
Make sure the pan fits comfortably inside your Air Fryer basket or cooking chamber.
2. Prepare the Apples
Core the apples and cut them into thin, even slices.
Arrange the apple slices neatly in a circular pattern across the bottom of the prepared pan.
Sprinkle the raisins evenly over the apples.
3. Prepare the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until the mixture becomes lighter and slightly fluffy.
Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
Gradually add the flour and baking powder.
Mix gently until you have a smooth, fluid batter without large lumps.
If you prefer a warm cinnamon flavor, you can use cinnamon instead of vanilla or add a small pinch of cinnamon to the batter.
4. Pour the Batter Over the Fruit
Carefully pour the cake batter over the arranged apples and raisins.
Spread the batter gently with a spatula if necessary so that it covers the fruit evenly.
Avoid disturbing the apple arrangement too much.
5. Air Fry the Cake
Place the cake pan inside the Air Fryer.
Cook at 320°F (160°C) for approximately 25–30 minutes.
Cooking time can vary depending on the size and depth of your pan and the specific Air Fryer model.
Insert a toothpick or thin knife into the center of the cake. It should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached.
If the top begins to brown too quickly before the center is fully cooked, loosely cover the cake with foil and continue cooking.
6. Cool and Remove the Cake
Once the cake is fully cooked, carefully remove the pan from the Air Fryer.
Allow the cake to cool for several minutes.
Run a thin knife around the edges if necessary, then carefully turn the cake onto a serving plate so that the caramelized-looking apple layer is on top.
7. Finish and Serve
Dust the warm or cooled cake lightly with powdered sugar and ground cinnamon.
Slice and serve on its own or with your favorite accompaniment.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Air Fryer Apple and Raisin Cake is incredibly simple to prepare and requires only a handful of everyday ingredients.
The combination of tender apples, sweet raisins, and soft vanilla cake creates a comforting flavor that is perfect for any time of day.
Using an Air Fryer also makes this recipe convenient when you want a homemade cake without heating up the entire kitchen with a traditional oven.
The beautiful apple arrangement on top makes this simple cake look elegant enough for guests while remaining easy enough for a casual family dessert.
Best Tips
Choose apples that hold their shape well during cooking. Slightly firm apples work particularly well because they become tender without completely falling apart.
Slice the apples evenly so they cook at approximately the same rate.
Do not make the batter excessively thick. The batter should be smooth and fluid enough to spread naturally over the fruit.
Allow the melted butter to cool slightly before adding it to the eggs so it does not accidentally warm the mixture too much.
Check the cake a few minutes before the suggested cooking time because Air Fryer temperatures and cooking performance can vary between models.
Allow the cake to rest for several minutes before turning it out. This makes it easier to remove and helps the cake set.
Best Ingredient Options
For the apples, varieties such as Gala, Golden Delicious, Pink Lady, or Granny Smith can work well. A combination of sweet and slightly tart apples can create an especially balanced flavor.
Butter gives the cake a rich, classic flavor, while vegetable oil creates a slightly softer texture.
Vanilla adds a delicate sweetness, while cinnamon gives the cake a warmer, more autumn-inspired flavor.
Golden raisins can be used instead of regular raisins for a slightly different appearance and flavor.
Recipe Variations
For a cinnamon apple cake, add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon directly to the batter.
For a lemon version, add a little finely grated lemon zest to the batter for a fresh citrus flavor.
For a nutty variation, sprinkle chopped walnuts or almonds over the apples before adding the batter.
For extra warmth and sweetness, add a small pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon.
For a caramel apple version, drizzle a little caramel sauce over individual slices just before serving.
What to Serve With
This apple and raisin cake is delicious with a cup of coffee, tea, cappuccino, or hot chocolate.
For dessert, serve a warm slice with a spoonful of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
A light drizzle of caramel sauce can also complement the apples and cinnamon beautifully.
Make-Ahead Instructions
The cake can be prepared several hours ahead of serving.
For the best texture, allow it to cool completely and store it covered at room temperature if you plan to eat it the same day.
You can also prepare the batter shortly before cooking, but for the best results, avoid leaving the batter sitting for an extended period because the baking powder begins working once it becomes wet.
Storage
Once completely cooled, store leftover cake in an airtight container.
It can be kept at room temperature for about 1 day, provided your kitchen is cool.
For longer storage, refrigerate the cake and consume it within approximately 3–4 days.
Because the cake contains fresh fruit, refrigeration is preferable for longer storage.
Reheating
To enjoy a warm slice, place it in the Air Fryer at approximately 300°F (150°C) for 2–4 minutes.
You can also microwave an individual slice for around 10–20 seconds.
Avoid overheating the cake because this can make the texture dry.
Freezing
The cake can be frozen once completely cooled.
Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe airtight container.
Freeze for up to approximately 2 months for the best quality.
Thaw the cake in the refrigerator or at room temperature, then gently warm individual slices before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid cutting the apples too thickly because they may remain firm while the cake finishes cooking.
Do not overcrowd the bottom of the pan with too many apples, as excessive moisture can affect the cake texture.
Avoid pouring very hot melted butter directly into the egg mixture.
Do not rely only on the cooking time. Always check the center of the cake with a toothpick or thin knife because Air Fryer models vary.
Do not turn the cake out immediately after cooking. Allowing it to rest for several minutes makes the cake easier to handle.
Nutrition Estimate
Nutrition will vary depending on the type of apples, milk, butter, sugar, and serving size.
| Nutrient | Estimated Amount Per Serving |
| Calories | 220–280 kcal |
| Protein | 4–5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35–42 g |
| Fat | 8–11 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4–6 g |
| Sugar | 20–25 g |
| Fiber | 2–3 g |
| Sodium | 100–160 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any type of apple?
Yes. Most firm apples work well. Sweet varieties create a naturally sweeter cake, while tart apples provide more contrast.
Do I need to preheat my Air Fryer?
Preheating is recommended if your Air Fryer model requires or benefits from it. However, some models cook effectively without preheating, so follow your appliance’s instructions.
What size pan should I use?
Use a small cake pan that fits comfortably inside your Air Fryer basket or cooking chamber. Avoid filling the pan too deeply because the center needs enough space and heat to cook properly.
Can I replace butter with oil?
Yes. Vegetable oil can be used instead of melted butter. The finished cake may have a slightly softer texture and a less buttery flavor.
Can I leave out the raisins?
Absolutely. If you prefer, simply omit the raisins or replace them with chopped nuts or dried cranberries.
Why is my cake browning too quickly?
Air Fryers circulate hot air directly around the food, so the surface can brown faster than in a conventional oven. If the top becomes too dark before the center is cooked, loosely cover the cake with aluminum foil and continue cooking.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick or thin knife into the center. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Apple and Raisin Cake is an easy and comforting homemade dessert that turns simple ingredients into something special.
The tender apples, juicy raisins, soft vanilla cake, and light dusting of powdered sugar and cinnamon create a delicious combination that is perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or dessert.
With its beautiful fruit-topped presentation and quick Air Fryer cooking time, this recipe is a wonderful option whenever you want a simple homemade cake without complicated preparation.