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Keto Air Fryer Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe

4.7 from 73 reviews

These Keto Air Fryer Chocolate Cupcakes are a delicious low-carb treat perfect for anyone following a keto lifestyle. Made with almond flour and sweetened with a brown sugar replacement, these cupcakes are rich, moist, and chocolatey. The unique air frying method ensures a quick bake with a tender crumb. Topped with a creamy keto chocolate frosting, they make a perfect guilt-free dessert or snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Cupcake Batter

  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar replacement
  • 3 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 2 tbsp chocolate whey protein powder (see notes)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp espresso powder (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 tbsp avocado oil
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp water (more as needed)

Frosting

  • 1/2 recipe keto chocolate frosting

Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, brown sugar replacement, cocoa powder, chocolate whey protein powder, baking powder, espresso powder (if using), and salt until evenly mixed.
  2. Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in sour cream, egg, avocado oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated. Add water a little at a time to achieve a thick but scoopable batter consistency.
  3. Prepare Muffin Cups: Place 6 silicone muffin cups into an 8-inch round cake pan. Evenly distribute the batter into each muffin cup. Cover the pan with foil, shiny side up, to keep the cupcakes moist during baking.
  4. Preheat Air Fryer: Insert the crisper basket into the air fryer and preheat to 300ºF (149ºC) using the bake function to create an even cooking environment.
  5. Bake with Foil: Once preheated, place the cake pan on the crisper basket inside the air fryer. Bake at 300ºF for 15 minutes.
  6. Continue Baking Without Foil: Remove the foil carefully and return the pan to the air fryer. Bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cupcakes have risen and the tops feel just firm to the touch.
  7. Cool and Frost: Let the cupcakes cool completely before applying the keto chocolate frosting to prevent melting and ensure a clean finish.

Notes

  • The chocolate whey protein powder adds extra protein and enhances the chocolate flavor; choose a keto-friendly brand.
  • Espresso powder is optional but intensifies the chocolate flavor without adding bitterness.
  • If the batter is too thick, add more water a teaspoon at a time until the proper consistency is achieved.
  • Use silicone muffin cups to ensure easy removal and even cooking in the air fryer.
  • Covering with foil during the initial bake phase helps the cupcakes cook evenly and retain moisture.
  • Ensure cupcakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent frosting from melting.

Keywords: Keto chocolate cupcakes, low carb cupcakes, air fryer dessert, keto dessert, chocolate whey protein cupcakes, almond flour cupcakes