1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Grease and line two 6-inch round cake pans that can fit in your air fryer.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for getting a light sponge, so take your time.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Fold in Dry Ingredients:
- Sift the self-raising flour and baking powder together. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. If the batter is too thick, add 2-3 tablespoons of milk to achieve a smooth, dropping consistency.
5. Divide and Air Fry:
- Evenly divide the batter between the two prepared cake pans. Place one pan in the air fryer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Repeat with the second pan.
- If your air fryer can fit both pans at once without stacking, you can cook them together. Just check that they bake evenly.
6. Cool the Cakes:
- Once baked, remove the cakes from the air fryer and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread the strawberry jam evenly over one of the cakes. Top with a generous layer of whipped cream.
- Place the second cake on top of the filling. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a classic finish.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the cake and serve with a cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy the light, fluffy texture and the classic flavors of this Victoria Sponge!
Tips for Perfecting Your Air Fryer Victoria Sponge:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, are at room temperature before you start. This helps them mix together more smoothly, giving you a better rise.
- Don’t Overmix: When folding in the flour, be gentle. Overmixing can knock out the air, resulting in a denser sponge.
- Layering: If you prefer, you can add a layer of fresh strawberries or raspberries between the jam and cream for extra flavor and texture.
- Storage: This cake is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
- Variations: Try different fillings, such as lemon curd or raspberry jam, for a fun twist on the classic recipe.
This Air Fryer Victoria Sponge is a testament to the versatility of the air fryer, proving that you can create beautiful, classic bakes with modern convenience. Enjoy every slice of this fluffy, delicious cake!