Making cheesecake can often be a time-consuming process, but with the air fryer, you can whip up a delicious dessert in just 20 minutes. In this post, we will walk you through a simple recipe for air fryer cheesecake that is creamy, rich, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients Needed
To get started, gather the following ingredients:
- For the crust: 150 grams (about 1 cup) of crushed graham crackers, 3 tablespoons of melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
- For the filling: 2 packages (8 oz each) of softened cream cheese, 2/3 cup (133 grams) of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup (120 grams) of sour cream, 2 large eggs, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and an optional substitution of half the sugar for light brown sugar for a caramel note.
Equipment Required
- A 7 or 8-inch springform pan (ensure it fits in your air fryer basket)
- A food processor or plastic bag for crushing graham crackers
- A stand mixer or hand mixer
- A measuring cup and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Crust
- Grease the Springform Pan: Lightly grease your springform pan to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust Mixture: In a bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Pack the Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan using a flat-bottomed cup or measuring cup. For added texture, consider substituting half of the graham crackers with toasted chopped pecans or walnuts.
- Chill the Crust: Place the crust in the freezer while you prepare the filling.
Preparing the Filling
- Mix the Cream Cheese: In the bowl of your stand mixer, add the softened cream cheese. Beat on medium speed until creamy and smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add Sour Cream: Measure out the sour cream and add it to the cream cheese mixture. This ingredient adds a delightful tang and lightens the cheesecake.
- Incorporate Sugar and Eggs: Gradually add the granulated sugar and mix until just combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently to avoid incorporating too much air.
- Flavor the Mixture: Scrape down the sides of the bowl and add the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
Baking the Cheesecake
- Combine Crust and Filling: Remove the crust from the freezer and pour the cheesecake filling over it. Gently tap the pan to release any air bubbles.
- Air Fry the Cheesecake: Carefully place the springform pan in the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer to bake at 300°F (150°C) for 20 minutes. Check for doneness by looking for a slight wobble in the center.
- Cool the Cheesecake: Once done, crack the air fryer door open slightly and let the cheesecake cool for 30 minutes to prevent cracking. After cooling, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set properly.
Serving the Cheesecake
To serve, run a small knife or offset spatula around the edge of the cheesecake to release it from the pan. Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan, slice the cheesecake, and enjoy!
Conclusion
This air fryer cheesecake is a quick and easy dessert that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. With a creamy filling and a crisp crust, it’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll have a delightful treat ready in no time!
