Red Velvet Air Fryer Cupcakes

One-Bowl Wonder, No Oven Needed

If you're short on time, short on oven space—or simply want to skip the dishes—these Red Velvet Air Fryer Cupcakes are your new go-to. Rich, tender, and perfectly portioned, this recipe makes just two cupcakes (ideal for weeknight cravings or impromptu celebrations). They’re baked entirely in the air fryer and mixed in one bowl, so you can spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying the results.

Let’s get straight to it.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes (makes 2)

• 100g caster sugar

• 50g unsalted butter, softened

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste

• 40g neutral-flavoured oil (like canola or sunflower)

• 20g cocoa powder

• 60g plain flour

• 10g cornflour

• ½ tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp fine salt

• ½ tsp vinegar (white or apple cider)

• 70g kefir or buttermilk

For the Quick Cream Cheese Frosting

• 200g cream cheese, room temperature

• 2 tbsp butter, softened

• Icing sugar, to taste

Method

1. Cream the butter and sugar in a mixing bowl until pale and fluffy.

2. Beat in the egg and vanilla paste until well incorporated.

3. Add the oil and kefir, and stir to combine.

4. Sift in the dry ingredients (cocoa powder, flour, cornflour, baking powder, and salt). Mix until smooth, being careful not to overwork the batter.

5. Finally, stir in the vinegar to activate the baking powder and boost the rise.

6. Divide the batter evenly between two lined or greased ramekins or silicone cupcake moulds.

7. Place in the air fryer and cook at 150°C for 24 minutes. Check with a skewer—it should come out clean.

8. Allow cupcakes to cool fully before frosting.

Frosting

1. In a clean bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.

2. Add icing sugar to taste, beating until light and fluffy.

3. Use a spoon or piping bag to swirl on top of the cooled cupcakes.

Chef’s Top Tips

• One-bowl means fewer dishes—but be sure to fully cream your butter and sugar before adding the egg to avoid splitting.

• Room temperature ingredients are key for smooth mixing and even baking.

• If your air fryer runs hot, check the cupcakes a few minutes early. Every model varies slightly.

• Don’t skip the vinegar—it reacts with the baking powder and cocoa to create that classic red velvet texture and tang.

• For extra flair, top with crushed freeze-dried raspberries or a dusting of cocoa.

These red velvet cupcakes are proof that good baking doesn’t need to be complicated—or time-consuming. Whether it’s a last-minute treat or your new favourite dessert for two, they’ll hit the sweet spot every time.