Go Back

Air Fryer Mini Dark Chocolate Cake with Brown Butter Frosting

This mini dark chocolate cake made in an air fryer is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without making a large cake. Topped with a rich brown butter frosting, it provides a deliciously decadent dessert in a fraction of the time.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 4 People
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 air fryer
  • 2 mixing bowls
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 small cake pan suitable for air fryer
  • 1 rubber spatula
  • 1 saucepan for frosting

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, for browning
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed.
  • In another bowl, mix the melted butter, egg, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until combined.
  • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until smooth and combined. Do not overmix.
  • Lightly grease the small cake pan with cooking spray or butter. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Once preheated, place the cake pan inside the air fryer basket.
  • Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, remove the cake from the air fryer and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • While the cake is cooling, prepare the brown butter frosting. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter turns a deep golden brown and develops a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
  • Once browned, remove the butter from the heat and let it cool slightly. In a bowl, combine the brown butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until you reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.
  • Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the brown butter frosting over the top of the cake using a spatula.

Notes

You can top the cake with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of sea salt for added flavor.
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
This mini cake is great for special occasions or as a simple treat to enjoy any day!