Air Fryer Rock Cakes

Indulge in the nostalgia of a classic British tea-time treat brought into the modern era with our Air Fryer Rock Cakes. These rustic, crumbly delights, traditionally enjoyed with a cup of tea, now receive a contemporary twist with the efficiency and convenience of air frying.

As your air fryer warms up to a perfect 350°F (180°C), the heart of these rock cakes comes to life. A blend of all-purpose flour, cold butter, granulated sugar, baking powder, and a medley of mixed dried fruit forms a dough that promises to deliver the familiar comfort of this time-honored treat.

Shaped into rough, rustic rounds, these rock cakes find their place in the parchment-lined air fryer basket, ready to undergo a transformation. In just 12-15 minutes, the air fryer works its magic, turning these doughy morsels into golden-brown gems with a firm exterior that gives way to a crumbly, flavorful interior.

While the butter and sugar contribute to the indulgent nature of these rock cakes, the dried fruits offer a natural sweetness and a burst of fruity flavors. Portion control becomes the key to savoring these treats as an occasional delight, perfect for those moments when you crave a touch of sweetness and timeless comfort.

Fresh from the air fryer, let the rock cakes cool slightly before serving. Whether you enjoy them with a hot cup of tea or as a sweet treat to brighten your day, these Air Fryer Rock Cakes embody the essence of cozy tea moments.

So, embrace the warmth and simplicity of a time-tested favorite made effortlessly modern. Share these delectable rock cakes with loved ones or savor them in solitude, celebrating the joy found in the simplicity of a perfect tea-time indulgence.

Air Fryer Rock Cakes

Ingredients:

1. All-Purpose Flour (2 cups):
   • Forms the base for the rock cakes.
2. Butter (1/2 cup, unsalted, cold and cubed):
   • Adds richness and a crumbly texture.
3. Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup):
   • Provides sweetness to the rock cakes.
4. Baking Powder (1 teaspoon):
   • Acts as a leavening agent for a light texture.
5. Mixed Dried Fruit (1 cup):
   • A combination of raisins, sultanas, and currants for a fruity flavor.
6. Egg (1 large):
   • Binds the ingredients together.
7. Milk (1/4 cup):
   • Adds moisture to the dough.
8. Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon):
   • Enhances the overall flavor.
9. Ground Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon, optional):
   • Adds a warm and aromatic touch.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C) for about 5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, mix the flour, cold cubed butter, sugar, baking powder, dried fruit, egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Optionally, add ground cinnamon for extra flavor.
3. Shape the Rock Cakes:
   • Scoop portions of the dough and shape them into rough, rustic rounds. Place them on a parchment-lined air fryer basket.
4. Air Fry the Rock Cakes:
   • Air fry the rock cakes at 350°F (180°C) for 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown and have a firm texture.
5. Cool and Enjoy:
   • Allow the rock cakes to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed fresh.

Nutritional Insight:

Air Fryer Rock Cakes, while a delightful treat, are typically a bit indulgent due to the presence of butter and sugar. The dried fruits contribute natural sweetness and additional nutrients. Portion control is key, as is the case with most baked goods.

The use of an air fryer offers a quicker and more energy-efficient method of baking, and it allows you to achieve a lovely golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside moist. While rock cakes may not be a low-calorie option, they can certainly be enjoyed as an occasional treat as part of a balanced diet.

Savor these Air Fryer Rock Cakes with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy and comforting tea-time experience.