How to Make Cake in the Instant Pot – Easy Moist Recipe Guide

How to make cake in the Instant Pot might sound like a modern trick, but trust me it’s quickly become my go-to method for baking soft, moist cakes without switching on the oven. The first time I tried it, I was in my Toronto kitchen craving something cozy and sweet. I remembered my nan’s simple sponge cakes from my childhood in Bath, but it was too warm to bake the traditional way. So, I pulled out my Instant Pot, poured in the batter, and hoped for the best. The result? A surprisingly tender, evenly cooked cake that tasted like home.

Since then, I’ve learned all the tricks behind how to make cake in the Instant Pot from choosing the right pan to sealing it just right. This guide walks you through every step so you can enjoy bakery-style cakes with minimal fuss. If you’ve ever wondered whether your pressure cooker could double as a dessert machine, you’re in for a lovely surprise.

Table of Contents

Why You Should Bake Cake in the Instant Pot

Instant Pot cake benefits

Making cake in the Instant Pot turns out better than you’d expect. The steam-and-pressure method locks in moisture, which is a dream for anyone who’s ever pulled a dry or overbaked cake from the oven. It’s especially helpful for smaller households or anyone short on oven space or patience. Because the cake steams as it cooks, you get a beautifully even crumb, soft all the way through.

If you’re learning how to make cake in the Instant Pot for the first time, the results are surprisingly rewarding. It’s ideal for delicate batters and single-layer cakes like my instant pot chocolate cake. I’ve found that even when using whole grain flour or adding fruit pieces, the result stays fluffy. With a bit of foil and a trusty sling, cleanup is just as simple.

How the Instant Pot compares to an oven

While it won’t fully replace your oven, knowing how to make cake in the Instant Pot gives you a reliable option that’s quick, consistent, and cool literally. There’s no preheating, no guessing when it’s done, and no dry edges. It’s a perfect option for baking in warm months or small kitchens.

The final texture is a little different think steamed pudding meets sponge cake but it’s so good topped with whipped cream or a light glaze. If you’re still figuring out how to make cake in the Instant Pot, don’t worry it’s simpler than you’d expect. And if you’re curious about expanding your Instant Pot skills, explore more instant pot dessert recipes for delicious ideas.

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Essential Equipment & Setup Tips

Choosing the right cake pan

When you’re figuring out how to make cake in the Instant Pot, using the right cake pan makes all the difference. A 7-inch round or springform pan fits most 6-quart Instant Pots perfectly. Look for one with a tight seal and removable sides to make unmolding easier. If your pan doesn’t fit flat on the trivet, opt for a silicone sling or make a foil sling so you can lift it out safely after cooking.

Avoid glass pans, which don’t conduct heat evenly under pressure. Stick with aluminum or stainless steel for the best results.

Proper moisture and sealing technique

Steam is essential when learning how to make cake in the Instant Pot. Start by adding 1 to 1½ cups of water to the Instant Pot insert before arranging the trivet and cake pan on top. This creates the moist environment that gives Instant Pot cakes their signature texture. Wrap the top of the pan snugly with aluminum foil to stop steam from dripping onto the cake batter.

A double layer of foil keeps the cake safe from steam without blocking its rise. And if your pot often carries savory smells, use a separate sealing ring just for baking.

Once you’ve prepped your Instant Pot and sealed the pan, you’re ready for the fun part: pressure baking. Keep your tools simple, and you’ll see how learning how to make cake in the Instant Pot becomes second nature. Up next, I’ll walk you through the full recipe.

Step-by-Step Instant Pot Cake Recipe

Mixing and preparing the batter

Now that you’re set up with the right tools and tips, let’s walk through how to make cake in the Instant Pot from scratch. For this method, use a simple vanilla batter or try my lemon cake recipe for a bright twist. You’ll need all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, a pinch of salt, eggs, milk, melted butter or oil, and a splash of vanilla.

Start by whisking together your dry ingredients in one bowl. In another, combine the wet ingredients until smooth. Then gently fold them together don’t overmix. Pour the batter into your prepared 7-inch cake pan, greased and lined with parchment for easy release.

Before sealing the pan, tap it gently on the counter to level the batter and release any bubbles. Cover the pan with foil, then use your sling to place it on the trivet inside the Instant Pot. Make sure there’s about 1¼ cups of water in the bottom to build steam.

Pressure-cooking and finishing

If you’re still learning how to make cake in the Instant Pot, the cooking settings are simpler than they sound. Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and pressure cook on high for 40 minutes. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 10–15 minutes before removing the lid.

Carefully lift out the pan using the sling. Allow the cake to rest in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. The top may look pale or soft that’s normal. If you like a firmer texture or golden finish, give it a quick 2-minute broil in your oven or an air fryer.

This method works beautifully with most batters, including my instant pot chocolate cake, which turns out moist and rich every time. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll understand why learning how to make cake in the Instant Pot is such a rewarding shortcut.

Tips, Variations & Troubleshooting

Creative flavor variations

Once you know how to make cake in the Instant Pot, it opens the door to all kinds of fun variations. A simple vanilla or chocolate base can become something special with just a few tweaks. For example, try adding lemon zest and blueberries for a summery twist, or swirl in a bit of jam or Nutella for extra richness.

You can also switch up the base recipe entirely. My readers love using applesauce or mashed banana in place of some oil for a softer texture and natural sweetness. And don’t forget frostings cream cheese, chocolate ganache, or just a dusting of powdered sugar all work wonderfully.

Fixes for common Instant Pot cake issues

As you’re learning how to make cake in the Instant Pot, you might hit a few snags but they’re easy to fix. If your cake turns out too wet, it may need extra cook time or better foil sealing. Try adding 5 minutes to the pressure cycle and double-check that the foil is tight enough to block dripping condensation.

If the cake feels dense, whisk your wet ingredients more thoroughly next time and avoid overmixing the batter. And if the cake collapses slightly in the center, don’t worry—it’s often just trapped steam. Letting the cake cool completely on a rack helps it firm up evenly.

The more you practice how to make cake in the Instant Pot, the more confident you’ll feel adapting recipes, switching flavors, and creating sweet comfort food that’s surprisingly simple to make.

Conclusion

Learning how to make cake in the Instant Pot is one of those little kitchen secrets that changes everything. Whether you’re short on time, oven space, or just looking for a fun new way to bake, this method delivers rich, fluffy results every time. With a few pantry staples and a bit of foil, you’ll be baking cozy treats for any occasion rainy afternoons, birthdays, or just because. So go ahead, pour yourself a cuppa, and give it a try. And don’t forget to explore more of my easy cake recipes for inspiration!

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FAQs About Instant Pot Cake Baking