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Air Fryer Rock Cakes Recipe

Air Fryer Rock Cakes Recipe

Air Fryer Rock Cakes Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups self-raising flour (or plain flour + 1 1/2 tsp baking powder)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/3 cup sugar (you can reduce this for a less sweet version)
  • 1/2 cup mixed dried fruit (raisins, sultanas, currants, etc.)
  • 1/4 cup milk (or a bit more if needed)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
  • Optional: coarse sugar for sprinkling

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour (or plain flour and baking powder), sugar, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Stir them together until evenly mixed.
  2. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. It’s okay if there are still some larger chunks of butter; this will help give the cakes their crumbly texture.
  3. Add the Wet Ingredients: Stir in the dried fruit and then make a well in the center of the mixture. Crack in the egg and add the milk and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will help the cakes stay light and crumbly. The dough should be quite stiff but not dry. If it’s too dry, add a little more milk.
  4. Shape the Rock Cakes: Scoop out spoonfuls of the dough and roughly shape them into mounds on a piece of parchment paper or a tray. These don’t need to be perfect shapes, as rock cakes are meant to be irregular. You can also gently flatten them to create a more biscuit-like shape. If desired, sprinkle a little coarse sugar on top for a nice crunch.
  5. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 330°F (165°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
  6. Air Fry the Rock Cakes: Place the shaped rock cakes in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each cake. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches. Air fry at 330°F (165°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the rock cakes are golden brown on top and firm to the touch.
  7. Cool and Serve: Once cooked, remove the rock cakes from the air fryer and let them cool on a wire rack. They are best enjoyed while still slightly warm, but they also store well for several days in an airtight container.

Approximate Nutrition (Per Rock Cake)

This recipe makes about 8-10 rock cakes, depending on the size. The following nutritional information is based on a typical recipe using self-raising flour, butter, and dried fruit.

Nutrition per Rock Cake:

  • Calories: 170–200 kcal
  • Protein: 2–3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25–30 g
    • Fiber: 1–2 g
    • Sugars: 12–15 g (mainly from the dried fruit and sugar)
  • Fat: 7–9 g
    • Saturated Fat: 4–5 g
  • Cholesterol: 35–45 mg
  • Sodium: 90–120 mg
  • Potassium: 100–150 mg
  • Vitamin A: 4–6% DV
  • Calcium: 2–4% DV
  • Iron: 5–6% DV

Key Nutritional Benefits:

  • Good Source of Energy: With carbohydrates from flour and dried fruit, these rock cakes provide a quick energy boost, making them great for breakfast or a mid-afternoon snack.
  • Fiber from Dried Fruit: The dried fruit adds a bit of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer. It also adds natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugar.
  • Butter for Flavor: While the butter adds some fat, it also gives the rock cakes a rich, buttery flavor and a satisfying texture. You can reduce the amount of butter or use a plant-based alternative to make them lighter, if desired.
  • Customizable: You can add extra ingredients, such as nuts, seeds, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, to further boost the flavor and nutritional value.

Air Fryer Benefits:

Using the air fryer to make rock cakes is a great way to speed up the cooking process while still achieving the perfect texture. The air fryer provides even heat distribution and a crispy exterior without the need for excessive amounts of oil. The result is a golden-brown crust and a soft, fluffy interior. The air fryer also uses less energy and heats up more quickly than a traditional oven, which makes it ideal for small batches or when you don’t want to heat up the entire kitchen. Plus, with the air fryer’s efficiency, these rock cakes cook much faster—typically in around 12-15 minutes—compared to the 20-30 minutes it might take in a conventional oven.

Air fryer rock cakes are a quick, easy, and healthier alternative to traditional baked goods. With their simple ingredients, minimal prep time, and delightful rustic appearance, these rock cakes are sure to become a favorite treat in your home. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea or as a grab-and-go breakfast, they offer a delicious way to indulge without the guilt.