Easy Air Fryer Carrot Cake Moist, Fluffy, and Delicious!

Carrot cake has always been one of those desserts that feels like a warm hug sweet, spiced, and somehow just a little bit magical. Growing up, my mom used to make it for every special occasion, her kitchen filling up with the cozy scent of cinnamon and vanilla. When I first discovered the magic of the Air Fryer Carrot Cake, it felt like a love letter to those memories but way faster and with even less cleanup (bless you, air fryer!).

If you’re a busy mom juggling soccer practice and work emails, or just someone who wants a homemade treat without turning on the big oven, this Easy Air Fryer Carrot Cake Moist, Fluffy, and Delicious! is your new best friend.

Love healthy desserts? Check out our 3-Ingredient Healthy Air Fryer Desserts!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Carrot Cake

First off, it’s super easy. No need to preheat a giant oven, no need to worry about uneven baking. The air fryer does its thing like a little kitchen wizard. Plus, this cake comes out ridiculously moist and fluffy just the way a good carrot cake should be. And trust me, it tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen when it really took, like, 10 minutes of active prep.

Bonus? It’s the perfect size for a small gathering or just treating yourself (and maybe hiding the last slice… no judgment!).

For another quick and nutritious snack, don’t miss our Healthy Air Fryer Apple Chips.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
• 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

How to Make Easy Air Fryer Carrot Cake

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugars, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs, oil, and vanilla extract together.
3. Make the Magic Happen: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots, pineapple, and nuts if you’re using them.
4. Prepare Your Pan: Grease a 6-inch round cake pan (one that fits comfortably in your air fryer basket) and line the bottom with parchment paper.
5. Cook It Up: Pour the batter into the pan. Air fry at 320°F for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Frost: Let the cake cool completely before frosting. I love a simple cream cheese frosting it’s the cherry on top of this delightful dessert.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Carrot Cake

• Don’t overmix the batter! Stir until just combined to keep the cake tender.
• If your air fryer tends to run hot, check the cake at the 28-minute mark.
• Want a shortcut? You can use pre-shredded carrots, but fresh really does give the best flavor.
• ✨ For a fun twist, add a handful of raisins or swap walnuts for pecans.

A Little Story From My Kitchen

I first made this cake on a whim late Sunday afternoon, craving something sweet but absolutely not wanting to wash a million dishes. I remember sitting by the counter, watching it rise in the air fryer, feeling like I’d just uncovered a secret. When my kids tried it, they immediately declared it “better than Grandma’s!” (Sorry, Mom I know you’d understand.)

Ever since, this Air Fryer Carrot Cake has been our go-to for birthdays, holidays, and “just because it’s Tuesday” celebrations.

Explore more delicious ideas in our full Air Fryer Desserts Guide!

FAQs About Air Fryer Carrot Cake

Can I substitute crushed pineapple?

Yes! You can use applesauce if you don’t have pineapple on hand. It keeps the cake moist and adds a hint of sweetness.

How should I store leftovers?

Cover the cake and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It actually gets even more flavorful after a day or two!

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely just swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

There you have it a cozy, homemade Air Fryer Carrot Cake that’s moist, fluffy, and oh-so-delicious. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you need a little extra sweetness in your day, I hope it brings as much joy to your kitchen as it does to mine. 🍲

P.S. If you’re looking for more easy air fryer goodies, hop over to my Air Fryer Recipes section and find your next obsession!