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Air Fryer Lemon Drizzle Cake – Bright, Zesty, and Effortless

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • For the cake:
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) whole-milk yogurt or sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest (from 1–2 lemons)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • For the lemon drizzle:
  • 3/4 cup (90 g) powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (to desired consistency)
  • Extra lemon zest for garnish (optional)
  • To prep the pan:
  • Butter or nonstick spray
  • Parchement paper (optional, but helpful)

Instructions

  • Prep the air fryer and pan: Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for 3–5 minutes. Grease a 6–7 inch round cake pan (or a small loaf pan) and line the bottom with parchment for easy release.
  • Cream the butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the sugar until pale and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. This helps create a light crumb.
  • Add eggs and flavor: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla.
  • Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Finish the batter: Add half the dry ingredients to the wet and mix gently. Stir in the yogurt, then the remaining dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—don’t overwork it.
  • Fill the pan: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles.
  • Bake: Place the pan in the air fryer basket. Cook at 320°F (160°C) for 22–28 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with just a few moist crumbs. If the top is browning too fast, tent loosely with foil during the last 5 minutes.
  • Cool slightly: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edge and lift it out. Place on a rack.
  • Make the drizzle: In a small bowl, whisk the powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Add more juice, a few drops at a time, until it’s pourable but still opaque.
  • Drizzle and set: While the cake is still warm (not hot), poke a few holes on top with a skewer. Spoon the drizzle over the surface so it sinks in and creates a glossy layer. Sprinkle extra zest if you like. Let it set for 15–20 minutes before slicing.