Citrus peel air fryer pound cake sounded simple when I first tried it, but my first version came out dense and slightly bitter. I was aiming for a soft, buttery crumb with a bright citrus lift. After testing this three ways, I discovered that finely chopping the peel and balancing it with sugar made all the difference. Then I cracked the code by lowering the temperature and extending the cook time slightly. I finally landed on a method that gives a moist, tender cake with a fresh citrus finish every time.
Citrus Peel Air Fryer Pound Cake – Moist & Zesty in 30 Minutes
A buttery pound cake infused with finely chopped citrus peel for a bright, zesty flavor, made easily in the air fryer.
Equipment
- Air Fryer (6-quart recommended)
- Small loaf pan (fits air fryer)
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or whisk
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped citrus peel orange, lemon, or mixed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Pour in milk and mix until smooth.
- Fold in finely chopped citrus peel evenly.
- Grease a small loaf pan and pour in batter.
- Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Preheat air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
- Place loaf pan into the basket.
- Air fry for 23–25 minutes until golden on top.
- Check doneness—insert a toothpick; it should come out clean.
- Remove and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Air fryer models vary—check at 20 minutes to prevent overbaking.
- Use finely chopped peel to avoid bitterness and uneven texture.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the crumb tender.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 3–4 minutes.
- Add a light citrus glaze for extra sweetness and shine.
Nutrition
Calories: 260kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 140mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 1gSugar: 16gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 6mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
CONCLUSION
This citrus peel air fryer pound cake is one of those simple bakes that feels bright and comforting at the same time. Once I balanced the citrus and texture, it turned out soft, flavorful, and perfectly golden every single time.