Air-Fryer Cheesecake: A Quick, Easy, And Delicious Treat

Making a cheesecake in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make a delicious dessert. It is also a simple process, requiring few ingredients and not much preparation time. The air fryer's small size means that your cheesecake will be ready in a fraction of the time it would take to bake one in a conventional oven. Plus, there's no need for a water bath, so you can say goodbye to soggy bottoms!

Choosing the right springform pan size for your air fryer

• Air Fryer Basket Size: The size of your air fryer basket will be the primary determinant of the springform pan size you can use. Most recipes for air fryer cheesecakes use a 6-,7, or 8-inch springform pan. If you have a smaller air fryer, opt for a 6-inch pan to ensure it fits comfortably in the basket. For larger air fryers, an 8-inch pan can provide a larger cheesecake without crowding the basket.
• Cheesecake Height: The depth of your springform pan will determine the height of your cheesecake. A shorter pan will result in a shorter cheesecake, while a taller pan will give you a taller, more dramatic presentation. Consider the height of your air fryer basket and choose a springform pan that allows for sufficient space between the top of the cheesecake and the heating element.
• Serving Size: Think about the number of servings you want from your cheesecake. A 6-inch springform pan will yield a smaller cheesecake, suitable for a more intimate gathering. On the other hand, an 8-inch pan will give you a larger cheesecake, perfect for serving a bigger crowd.
• Cooking Time: The size of the springform pan will impact the cooking time. A larger pan, such as an 8-inch, will typically result in a thinner cheesecake and a shorter cooking time. Conversely, a smaller pan, like a 6-inch, will produce a thicker cheesecake that may require a slightly longer cooking time.
• Availability of Pans: Ensure that you have the right springform pan size for your air fryer. It's worth investing in a good-quality springform pan specifically for your air fryer, as it will ensure even cooking and easy removal of your cheesecake.
• Trial and Error: If you're unsure about the best springform pan size for your air fryer, don't be afraid to experiment. Start with a smaller pan and see how it fits in your air fryer basket. You can always adjust the recipe and use a larger pan if needed. Remember that the cooking time may vary depending on the size of the pan you choose.

Making the crust

Firstly, you will need to gather your ingredients. The exact quantities may vary slightly depending on the specific recipe you are following, but the essential ingredients for the crust are graham crackers or biscuits, and butter. Some recipes also include additional ingredients such as sugar, salt, or even crushed Oreos for a chocolatey twist!

Once you have your ingredients ready, it's time to start making the crust. Begin by crushing your graham crackers or biscuits. You can do this by placing them in a food processor and pulsing until they are finely crushed, or you can put them in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin. If you are feeling adventurous, you can even crush them by hand, but be sure to crush them finely and evenly.

Next, you will need to mix your crushed biscuits or crackers with melted butter. The general ratio is about 6-7 crushed biscuits to 3 tablespoons of melted butter. You can adjust this slightly depending on your desired consistency. Mix the two together until the mixture resembles wet sand. You can use a fork or a spoon to combine them thoroughly.

Now it's time to prepare your pan. You will need a springform pan or a regular cake pan that fits your air fryer. Grease your chosen pan with butter or cooking spray. If using a springform pan, you may also want to line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Transfer your graham cracker mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spoon to press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan. If you are using a springform pan, you can also press the mixture slightly up the sides. You can use a spoon, your fingers, or the back of a spoon to press the crust firmly and evenly.

At this point, you may want to chill your crust in the freezer for about 20 minutes. This step is not mandatory but can help to set the crust and prevent it from becoming too soft when you add the filling.

And there you have it! Your air fryer cheesecake crust is now ready for the filling. Remember to refer to your chosen cheesecake recipe for specific instructions and baking times. Enjoy creating your delicious air fryer cheesecake!

Melting butter in the air fryer

Melting butter in an air fryer is a straightforward process, but it requires caution to avoid burning the butter. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Place the desired amount of butter in an oven-safe or air fryer-safe container, such as a small bowl or ramekin.
• Cut the butter into smaller pieces to ensure faster and more even melting.
• Preheat your air fryer to a temperature below the smoking point of butter, which is 350°F (177°C). Set the temperature to 325°F (163°C) or lower to prevent the butter from browning or burning.
• Place the container with butter into the preheated air fryer.
• Check the butter at short intervals to prevent overheating. Butter can melt quickly, so keep a close eye on it.
• Once the butter has melted, remove the container from the air fryer.

It is important to note that while you can melt butter directly in the air fryer basket, it is not recommended. Doing so can create a mess and be inefficient. Always use a suitable container to melt butter in your air fryer.

Combining the crust ingredients

To make the crust for your air fryer cheesecake, you will need graham crackers, butter, and sugar. Some recipes suggest using Oreos for the base, while others recommend whole-grain cookies. You will also need a springform or regular cake pan, cooking spray, and parchment paper.

Firstly, cut a piece of parchment paper to fit the cake pan. Spray the pan with cooking spray, then place the parchment paper inside.

Next, crush the crackers or cookies. You can do this by placing them in a food processor and blending until they are finely crushed, or by putting them in a ziplock bag and crushing them with a rolling pin.

Now, add the melted butter to the crushed crackers or cookies. Combine the mixture until it resembles wet sand. Then, spread the mixture evenly across the bottom of the pan and up the sides. If you are using a springform pan, you do not need to press the mixture up the sides. Place the pan in the freezer for 20 minutes.

Once the crust is firm, remove the pan from the freezer and preheat your air fryer to 300°F. If your air fryer requires preheating, you can do this while the crust is chilling.

Preparing the filling

To prepare the filling, you will need cream cheese, eggs, condensed milk, vanilla, and sugar. If you want to add a tangy twist to your cheesecake, you can also add some sour cream.

Firstly, use a hand mixer or a stand mixer to beat the cream cheese in a medium-sized bowl until it is smooth and creamy. Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to ensure a smooth mixture.

Next, add the sugar and continue to beat the mixture until it is well combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl as you go.

After this, add the condensed milk and vanilla extract, and beat the mixture until it is completely smooth and creamy. You can also add a pinch of salt at this stage if desired.

Your filling is now ready to be poured over the crust and baked in the air fryer!

Frequently asked questions