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

Making cheesecake in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth. This cooking method results in a creamy texture and prevents cracking, plus it's a foolproof way to avoid the hassle of preparing a water bath.

You'll need a springform pan or cake barrel that fits your air fryer, plus simple ingredients like cream cheese, eggs, sugar, and butter. The process is simple: make a cookie or graham cracker crust, prepare the cream cheese filling, and then bake and chill.

Get creative with your toppings, and enjoy your delicious, homemade air-fried cheesecake!

Preparing the crust

To make the crust for your air fryer cheesecake, you will need graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or cookies. You will also need butter, sugar, and salt.

First, blitz the crackers, biscuits, or cookies in a food processor until they become crumbs. You can also place them in a Ziploc bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Then, transfer the crumbs to a mixing bowl and combine them with melted butter, sugar, and salt. Stir the mixture until the crumbs are evenly moistened and starting to stick together.

Next, prepare your air fryer-safe cake pan or springform pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper. You can also grease the sides with butter or non-stick spray. Then, press the crust mixture into the bottom of the pan using a spoon or the base of a flat-bottomed cup. Some recipes suggest pre-baking the crust in the air fryer for about 10 minutes before filling it.

Making the filling

The filling is the star of the cheesecake, so it's important to get it just right. Here's a step-by-step guide to making the perfect cheesecake filling for your air fryer cheesecake:

Ingredients

Firstly, gather your ingredients. For the filling, you will need:

• Cream cheese
• Eggs
• Sugar (granulated and/or brown)
• Vanilla extract
• Sour cream or heavy cream
• Lemon juice (optional)

Mixing the Filling

• In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy. Make sure to use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture. You can use either brick-style cream cheese (let it come to room temperature first) or spreadable cream cheese straight from the refrigerator.
• Add the sugar(s) and beat until combined.
• Then, add the vanilla extract and sour cream or heavy cream, and stir until combined. If you're using lemon juice, add it at this stage.
• Finally, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix the filling, as this can make your cheesecake dense.

Pouring the Filling

• Once your filling is ready, carefully pour it into your prepared crust (see the previous section for instructions on making the crust).
• If you're making individual cheesecakes, divide the filling evenly between your pans.

Baking the Cheesecake

• Place your cheesecake(s) in the air fryer and bake at a low temperature, around 300-350°F. The exact temperature and time will depend on your air fryer and the size of your cheesecake, but a good starting point is 300°F for 20-30 minutes.
• To check if your cheesecake is done, gently tap it. If it has no wobble, it's ready. You can also use a toothpick to test the doneness; insert it into the centre of the cheesecake, and if it comes out clean, it's done.
• Once the cheesecake is baked, turn off the air fryer and let the cheesecake sit inside for about 30 minutes.
• Then, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool to room temperature.

Chilling the Cheesecake

After your cheesecake has cooled, cover it with plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This step is important as it allows the cheesecake to firm up and the flavours to develop.

And that's it! You've now made a delicious cheesecake filling that will impress your family and friends. Feel free to experiment with different flavours and toppings to make it your own. Enjoy!

Baking the cheesecake

Now that you have your air fryer ready to go, your pan prepared, and your filling mixed, it's time to bake your cheesecake! Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the perfect air fryer cheesecake:

Step 1: Preheat your air fryer

Before you begin baking, make sure to preheat your air fryer. Depending on the model, you may need to preheat it for a few minutes. Check your air fryer's instructions for the optimal preheating time and temperature.

Step 2: Pour the filling into the crust

Carefully pour your prepared cheesecake filling into the crust. It's important to fill it almost to the rim of the pan to ensure a thick and satisfying cheesecake.

Step 3: Place the pan in the air fryer

Gently place the springform pan into the basket of your air fryer. Be careful not to spill the filling. If your air fryer is not large enough, you may need to bake the cheesecakes one at a time.

Step 4: Set the temperature and time

For a 7-inch cheesecake, set your air fryer to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. The baking time will vary depending on your air fryer model, but on average, it should take around 20-22 minutes. However, it's important to keep an eye on your cheesecake to avoid overcooking.

Step 5: Check for doneness

The ideal cheesecake should have a slight jiggle in the centre but should not be wet. If the centre still appears wet and jiggly after the recommended baking time, continue baking in 2-minute increments until it's just right.

Step 6: Remove from the air fryer and chill

Once your cheesecake is baked to perfection, carefully remove the springform pan from the air fryer. Allow it to cool slightly before transferring it to the refrigerator. It's important to chill your cheesecake for at least 6-8 hours, or preferably overnight, to ensure it sets completely.

Tips for Success:

• Every air fryer is unique, so adjust the baking time as needed.
• To test if your cheesecake is done, gently tap it. If there is no wobble, it's a good indication that it's ready.
• For an extra indulgent touch, top your cheesecake with your favourite toppings, such as cherry pie filling, chocolate syrup, or fresh fruits like strawberries and blueberries.

Now you know the secrets to baking the perfect air fryer cheesecake! Enjoy your delicious, creamy, and indulgent treat!

Removing the cheesecake from the air fryer

• Turn off the Air Fryer: Once your cheesecake is done, turn off your air fryer. Do not attempt to remove the cheesecake while the air fryer is still on or hot. Allow the air fryer to cool down for a few minutes before proceeding to the next step.
• Open the Air Fryer Basket: After it has cooled down, carefully open the air fryer basket. Be cautious as there might still be some residual heat.
• Let the Cheesecake Cool: Keeping the cheesecake in the air fryer basket or tray, allow it to cool down for a few minutes. This will help prevent the cheesecake from cracking or falling apart when you handle it.
• Remove the Cheesecake from the Air Fryer: Using oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves, carefully lift the cheesecake out of the air fryer. If you used a springform pan, you can simply lift it out. If you used a regular cake pan, you might need to slide a spatula or knife around the edges to loosen the cheesecake before lifting it out.
• Place on a Wire Rack: Transfer the cheesecake to a wire rack to cool completely. This will allow air to circulate under the cheesecake, promoting even cooling.
• Refrigerate: Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, and then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or, preferably, overnight. This step is crucial for the cheesecake to set properly.
• Release from the Pan: If you used a springform pan, release the cheesecake by unclipping or unlocking the sides of the pan and lifting them away. If you used parchment paper, simply slide a knife or offset spatula between the cheesecake and the paper to separate them. If you greased the pan, run a knife or offset spatula around the edges to loosen the cheesecake before turning it out.
• Serve: Place the cheesecake on a serving platter or cake stand. If desired, top it with your choice of toppings, such as cherry pie filling, chocolate syrup, or fresh fruit. Finally, slice and serve your delicious air fryer cheesecake!

Serving and storing the cheesecake

Once your cheesecake is ready, it's important to let it cool down to room temperature for about 2-3 hours. Then, it should be placed in the fridge to chill for at least 3 hours or overnight. This will allow the cheesecake to firm up.

When you're ready to serve, you can top your cheesecake with whipped cream, strawberries, blueberries, chocolate syrup, or even candied cherries. It's best served cold, so make sure to chill it before serving.

If you have any leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the cheesecake or keep it in an airtight container.

If you want to freeze your cheesecake, wrap it in plastic wrap once it's chilled, and then again in tinfoil before placing it in the freezer.

Frequently asked questions