There is nothing better in the morning than a great and easy slice of Air Fryer Chocolate Pound Cake. Rich, moist, and absolutely delicious, it makes for a great dessert or breakfast when paired with a hot cup of coffee.

Air Fryer Chocolate Pound Cake
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Chocolate is amazing at all times of the day, and I love reaching for an indulgent breakfast paired with a cup of fresh fruit. It makes for a great way to start the day.

Quick loaves of bread do so well in the air fryer, and this one is no different. With a few modifications of typical quick bread, you can have a delicious breakfast.

If you love a great and Easy Air Fryer Breakfast Recipe, this is one of my favorites. Still, there are so many other ones that you can choose to bake right in your air fryer, including AIR FRYER BARNYARD BUSTER WRAP, AIR FRYER APPLE CRANBERRY BREAD, AIR FRYER BREAKFAST COOKIES, and AIR FRYER CHOCOLATE CHIP PANCAKE MUFFINS.

Chocolate Pound Cake

If you have ever made a regular pound cake, you know that the old-fashioned Pound Cake Recipe derived its name from having a pound of butter, granulated sugar, and flour. This one is no different, although to get the chocolate flavor, we added some Dutch-process cocoa powder.

The Dutch Process Cocoa Powder adds many flavors and gives a great balance when mixed in with the other ingredients. The result is a smooth and delicious piece of chocolate pound cake.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!


Air Fryer Chocolate Pound Cake combines the rich, indulgent flavor of chocolate with the convenience and efficiency of air frying, creating a dessert that’s both delicious and easy to make. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

  • Rich Chocolate Flavor: This recipe uses cocoa powder (and optionally, chocolate chips) to deliver a deep, rich chocolate taste that satisfies any chocolate lover’s cravings.
  • Moist and Tender Texture: Baking in an air fryer ensures that the cake retains its moisture, resulting in a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
  • Quick and Convenient: The air fryer heats up quickly and bakes the cake faster than a conventional oven, saving you time and energy.
  • Perfect for Small Batches: If you don’t need a full-sized cake, the air fryer is ideal for making smaller portions without wasting ingredients.
  • Easy Cleanup: Air fryers are known for their ease of cleanup, making this chocolate pound cake as easy to clean up after as it is to enjoy.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Serve this cake as is, dust it with powdered sugar, or drizzle it with a simple chocolate or vanilla glaze to elevate it further.
  • No Overheating Your Kitchen: The air fryer keeps your kitchen cooler than using an oven, making it perfect for baking even on hot days.
  • Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe by adding nuts, orange zest, or espresso powder to customize the flavor to your liking.

This Air Fryer Chocolate Pound Cake recipe is perfect for when you need a chocolate fix without the hassle of traditional baking methods. It promises a satisfyingly rich dessert that’s foolproof and sure to become a go-to for any occasion.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Chocolate Pound Cake

Indulge in the decadence of Air Fryer Chocolate Pound Cake, a recipe that transforms the classic pound cake into a chocolate lover’s dream. Perfect for those seeking a quick yet luxurious dessert, this cake offers the rich, deep flavors of chocolate paired with the moist, tender texture that pound cake is known for. Crafted to perfection in the air fryer, this cake promises to deliver not only on taste but also on convenience, making it a must-try for any baking enthusiast or anyone looking to treat themselves to a slice of chocolate heaven.

Air Fryer Chocolate Pound Cake

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for your cake, ensuring a tender crumb characteristic of the finest pound cakes.
  • Cocoa Powder: The key to the rich chocolate flavor, cocoa powder adds depth and intensity to the cake, enveloping each bite in luscious chocolate.
  • Baking Powder: Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cake rise and achieve a light, fluffy texture, balancing out the density of the pound cake.
  • Unsalted Butter: Contributes to the cake’s rich, moist texture, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every slice.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness that complements the bitterness of the cocoa, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
  • Milk: Incorporates additional moisture into the batter, ensuring the cake remains moist and tender throughout baking.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a layer of flavor that enhances the chocolate, offering a subtle aromatic backdrop to the cake’s decadence.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together, providing moisture and richness, and contribute to the cake’s structure and tenderness.
  • Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the chocolate flavor, contrasting the sweetness and bringing out the complexity of the cocoa.
  • Chocolate Chips: For those who desire an even richer chocolate experience, folding in chocolate chips adds pockets of melted chocolate throughout the cake.

How To Make Air Fryer Chocolate Pound Cake

Making Chocolate Pound Cake in an air fryer is a delightful way to enjoy a classic dessert with a rich, chocolatey twist. Here’s a straightforward guide to creating a moist and tender chocolate pound cake using your air fryer.

How To Make Air Fryer Chocolate Pound Cake

In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter and granulated sugar. Mix until fluffy. This will ensure that you get fluffy bread. Then mix in the eggs, add in one at a time, mix after each egg, mix in the vanilla extract.

Air Fryer Chocolate Pound Cake

Mix the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in another large mixing bowl. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Add in the milk, and mix again. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Spray your loaf pan with cooking spray, then pour the batter into the prepared pan, filling 2/3 the way full. Set the pan into the air fryer and set the temperature to 320 degrees F for 20 minutes. (air fryer setting)

When the time is up, place a toothpick in the pound cake and check to see that the toothpick comes out clean. If not, add another 5 minutes.

Air Fryer Chocolate Pound Cake

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Pound Cake is a versatile dessert that can be customized in numerous ways to suit different tastes and occasions. Here are several delightful variations to inspire your next baking adventure:

  • Chocolate Orange Pound Cake: Add the zest of one orange to the batter to infuse the cake with a subtle citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate. Optionally, incorporate a tablespoon of orange liqueur for an extra flavor boost.
  • Chocolate Marble Pound Cake: Prepare a vanilla batter by setting aside a portion of the cake batter before adding cocoa. Layer the chocolate and vanilla batters in the pan, then use a knife to swirl them together for a marbled effect.
  • Mocha Chocolate Pound Cake: Mix in 1-2 tablespoons of instant espresso powder with the dry ingredients to add a deep coffee flavor that complements the chocolate, perfect for coffee enthusiasts.
  • Nutty Chocolate Pound Cake: Fold in ¾ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture and a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the rich chocolate.
  • Chocolate Chip Pound Cake: Stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips (semi-sweet, dark, or milk chocolate) into the batter to create gooey chocolate pockets throughout the cake, adding a double dose of chocolate indulgence.
  • Peppermint Chocolate Pound Cake: Add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter for a refreshing minty twist. You can also fold in crushed peppermint candies for added texture and flavor.
  • Chocolate Lava Pound Cake: Before baking, spoon dollops of chocolate ganache into the center of the batter. As the cake bakes, the ganache will create a molten lava effect in the slices.
  • Boozy Chocolate Pound Cake: Incorporate ¼ cup of your favorite liqueur, such as rum, bourbon, or Baileys Irish Cream, into the batter for a boozy kick that enhances the chocolate flavor.
  • Chocolate Peanut Butter Pound Cake: Swirl in ½ cup of creamy peanut butter into the batter before baking for a delicious chocolate-peanut butter combination that’s always a hit.
  • Double Chocolate Pound Cake: Increase the chocolate intensity by adding ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the batter and a chocolate glaze topping after the cake has cooled.

Each of these variations on Chocolate Pound Cake allows you to experiment with flavors and add-ins, creating a custom cake that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re in the mood for something fruity, nutty, or even boozy, there’s a variation here to satisfy every chocolate lover’s craving.

Air Fryer Chocolate Pound Cake

Pro Tips

Creating the perfect Chocolate Pound Cake in an air fryer requires a blend of classic baking techniques and air frying know-how. Here are some pro tips to ensure your cake turns out moist, rich, and delicious every time:

  • Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips for the best flavor. The richness of the cake heavily depends on the cocoa’s quality.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature to achieve a smooth, evenly mixed batter. This helps the cake to rise properly and bake evenly.
  • Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder removes any lumps and aerates the mixture, leading to a lighter cake texture.
  • Do Not Overmix: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can develop the gluten too much and lead to a dense, tough cake.
  • Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like with an oven, preheating your air fryer ensures that the cake starts baking at the right temperature, which is crucial for a consistent texture and even rise.
  • Use the Correct Pan: Make sure the cake pan fits comfortably in your air fryer basket to allow for proper air circulation. A pan that’s too large or too small can affect the baking time and cake texture.
  • Bake at the Right Temperature: Air fryers can run hotter than traditional ovens. If your air fryer tends to cook quickly, consider reducing the temperature by 25°F (about 4°C) from the recipe’s suggested temperature to prevent the outside from burning before the inside is cooked.
  • Check for Doneness Early: Start checking the cake for doneness a few minutes before the suggested cooking time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
  • Let the Cake Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This makes it easier to remove from the pan and helps prevent it from falling apart.
  • Glaze or Dust with Powdered Sugar: Enhance the chocolate flavor with a simple chocolate glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and makes for a beautiful presentation.
  • Storage: To keep the cake moist, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can also be wrapped tightly and frozen for longer storage.

By following these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a delicious Air Fryer Chocolate Pound Cake that’s sure to impress with its rich flavor and perfect texture.

Air Fryer Chocolate Pound Cake

Faq’s

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed cocoa powder? Yes, you can use regular (natural) cocoa powder in place of Dutch-processed cocoa powder. However, be aware that it might slightly alter the cake’s flavor and color due to differences in acidity and alkalinity between the two types of cocoa.

How do I prevent my cake from being too dry? To avoid a dry cake, ensure you measure your ingredients accurately, especially the flour and cocoa powder. Overbaking can also cause dryness, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time. Adding a bit more fat, like oil or butter, can also help maintain moisture.

Can I add chocolate chips to the batter? Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can introduce delightful pockets of melted chocolate throughout the cake, enhancing the chocolatey experience. Toss them lightly in flour before adding to the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.

How long will the chocolate pound cake keep? When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, the chocolate pound cake can last for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.

Can I make this cake without an air fryer? Yes, this cake can also be baked in a conventional oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Why did my cake not rise properly? Improper rising can be due to expired baking powder, undermixing or overmixing the batter, or opening the air fryer too early during the baking process, which can cause temperature fluctuations. Ensure your baking powder is fresh and follow the mixing instructions carefully.

Can I use a bundt pan for this recipe? If your air fryer is large enough to accommodate a bundt pan with adequate air circulation, you can certainly use it. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as the shape of the pan may affect how the cake bakes.

How can I tell if my cake is fully baked? Insert a toothpick or a cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, the cake is done. The surface should spring back when lightly pressed.

Can I freeze chocolate pound cake? Yes, chocolate pound cake freezes well. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.

How do I get a moist crumb texture? A moist crumb texture in chocolate pound cake is achieved by not overbaking the cake, accurately measuring ingredients (especially liquids), and incorporating ingredients like sour cream, yogurt, or extra butter into the batter for added moisture.

chocolate pound cake in air fryer

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Air Fryer Chocolate Pound Cake

Air Fryer Chocolate Pound Cake

4.41 from 5 votes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings

Description

There is nothing better in the morning than a great and easy slice of Air Fryer Chocolate Pound Cake. Rich, moist, and absolutely delicious, it makes for a great dessert or breakfast when paired with a hot cup of coffee.

Ingredients 

  • 1 cup butter, room temperature, unsalted
  • 1 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1 2/3  cup flour
  • 1/3 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter and granulated sugar. Mix until fluffy. This will ensure that you get fluffy bread. Then mix in the eggs, add in one at a time, mix after each egg, mix in the vanilla extract.
  • In another large mixing bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Add in the milk, and mix again. Fold in the chocolate chips.
  • Spray your loaf pan with cooking spray, and then pour the batter into the prepared pan, filling 2/3 the way full. Set the pan into the air fryer, and set the temperature to 320 degrees F for 20 minutes. (air fryer setting)
  • When the time is up, place a toothpick in the pound cake, and check to see that the toothpick comes out clean. If not, add another 5 minutes.
  • Plate, serve, and enjoy!

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Cooking Spray
  • Mini Loaf Pans, Oven Safe

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 564kcalCarbohydrates: 74gProtein: 7gFat: 29gSaturated Fat: 17gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 133mgSodium: 393mgPotassium: 128mgFiber: 2gSugar: 51gVitamin A: 848IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 64mgIron: 2mg

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