Zucchini “Invisible” Cake in the Air Fryer (Gluten-Free)

Posted on November 3, 2025

Zucchini “Invisible” Cake

Light, tender, and packed with vegetables, this “invisible” zucchini cake became a viral sensation for a reason. Made in the air fryer, it’s simple, quick, and turns a few humble ingredients into a deliciously rustic savory dish.

A touch of Parmigiano Reggiano adds depth, while a small sautéed onion gives the mixture that home-baked aroma and flavor. You can customize it endlessly — think of it as a smart way to use up leftover vegetables in your fridge.

Try it: Speck and Provola Potato Crumble Pie, Baked the Air Fryer Way

Zucchini “Invisible” Cake in the Air Fryer

A light, gluten-free zucchini cake made in the air fryer — tender inside, golden outside, and perfect for a quick savory meal.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 230

Ingredients
  

What you need to make the zucchini “invisible” cake
For the batter
  • 2 medium zucchinis
  • 1 small onion, sautéed in olive oil
  • 70 g potato starch (about 3/4 cup)
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 tbsp baking powder for savory pies (about 1 packet)
  • 30 g Parmigiano Reggiano, grated (about 1/4 cup)
  • 60 g Greek yogurt (about 1/4 cup)
  • olive oil, for greasing and brushing
  • salt, to taste
  • black pepper, to taste

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Mandoline slicer
  • Non-stick frying pan
  • Air fryer-safe baking pan
  • Spatula or whisk

Method
 

How to make zucchini “invisible” cake in the air fryer
    Prepare the onion
    1. Slice the onion finely and sauté in a small pan with olive oil and a pinch of salt until soft and golden. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
      Zucchini “Invisible” Cake
    Slice the zucchini
    1. Wash the zucchinis, trim the ends, and slice thinly using a mandoline.
    Prepare the batter
    1. Add eggs, Greek yogurt, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the onion. Whisk to combine, then add potato starch, baking powder, and Parmigiano. Mix until smooth.
    Combine ingredients
    1. Fold in the zucchini slices, ensuring they are evenly coated.
    Pour and smooth
    1. Pour the mixture into a greased baking pan suitable for the air fryer. Smooth the surface and brush lightly with olive oil.
    Air fry
    1. Air fry at 340°F (170°C) for about 40 minutes, checking after 20–25 minutes. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil and continue cooking until set.
    Serve
    1. Let cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
    Storage
    1. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) before serving.
    Zucchini “Invisible” Cake
    Zucchini “Invisible” Cake

    Extra Tips

    If you prefer a non-gluten-free version, you can replace potato starch with all-purpose flour. The texture will be slightly denser but still soft.

    Keep an eye on the cooking time: the outer crust tends to brown faster in the air fryer, while the inside may remain softer. If needed, cover the cake halfway through cooking to ensure an even result.

    For a richer twist, add small cubes of speck or pancetta to the batter. It balances beautifully with the sweetness of zucchini and onion.

    — Some images featured in our recipes serve illustrative purposes only. Each preparation is carefully tested, yet the final outcome may vary depending on the ingredients you use and the equipment available in your own kitchen.

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