AIR FRYER FRUIT CAKE

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose  flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large  eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates, etc.)
• 1/2 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, etc.)
• 1/2 cup fresh berries (cranberries, blackberries, etc.)
• 1/4 cup orange juice or rum (optional, for soaking dried fruits)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare the Dried Fruits:If using, soak the dried fruits in orange juice or rum for a few hours or overnight to plump them up. Drain before using.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
   In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
   Fold in the mixed dried fruits, nuts, and fresh berries.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
4. Prepare the Cake Pan:Grease a small cake pan that fits into your air fryer basket. You can use a round or loaf pan, depending on your preference.
   Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
5. Air Fry the Cake:Place the cake pan in the air fryer basket.
   Air fry for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The time may vary depending on the thickness of the cake and the specific air fryer model.
   If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
6. Cool and Serve:Remove the cake from the air fryer and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
   Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.