1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Flavoring: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated. Mix in the vanilla extract and dissolved coffee.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in Walnuts: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set Temperature: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 5 minutes.
3. Prepare the Cake Pan:
- Grease and Line: Grease a 7-inch round cake pan with butter or non-stick spray and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
4. Bake the Cake:
- Fill Pan: Pour the cake batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
- Air Fry: Place the cake pan in the air fryer basket. Cook at 320°F (160°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Prepare the Coffee Buttercream:
- Cream Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Add Sugar and Coffee: Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Add the dissolved coffee and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until smooth and fluffy.
- Adjust Consistency: Add the heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
6. Assemble the Cake:
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the coffee buttercream evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
- Garnish: Decorate the top of the cake with walnut halves for a beautiful finishing touch.
7. Serve:
- Slice and Enjoy: Slice the cake and serve with a cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy the rich, nutty flavors and moist texture of your homemade air fryer coffee and walnut cake.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Coffee and Walnut Cake:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter and even baking.
- Do Not Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Check for Doneness: Start checking the cake at the 25-minute mark. Air fryers vary, so your cake might need a little more or less time.
- Cool Completely: Make sure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting.
Why This Recipe Will Keep You Engaged:
Creating an air fryer coffee and walnut cake is a delightful journey from start to finish. The process of making the batter, the anticipation as it bakes, and the joy of decorating and garnishing the cake will keep you engaged and excited. The detailed instructions ensure success, while the tips provide valuable insights for achieving the best results. Savoring each bite of the rich, flavorful cake you’ve created will make the experience even more rewarding.
Enjoy this delicious, moist, and flavorful air fryer coffee and walnut cake. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to impress family and friends with its rich taste and beautiful presentation.