Air Fryer Recipe: Cheesecake Bites
Air Fryer Cheesecake Bites
Tired of waiting for a full cheesecake to bake and cool? These Air Fryer Cheesecake Bites are the perfect solution for a quick and satisfying dessert. This recipe creates individual, creamy cheesecake bites with a crispy graham cracker crust, all in a fraction of the time of a traditional cheesecake. The air fryer works its magic, delivering a perfectly cooked cheesecake that's ready to be devoured almost instantly.1
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 6 full sheets of graham crackers
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted2
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
For the Filling:
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened to room temperature3
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar4
- 1 large egg yolk5
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract6
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions & Method
- Prepare the Crust: Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs.7 You can do this in a food processor or by placing them in a Ziploc bag and crushing them with a rolling pin. In a small bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined.8
- Form the Crust: Line a muffin tin with silicone or paper liners. Press about 1 tablespoon of the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of each liner to form the crust.9
- Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.10 Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Beat in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until just combined.11 Be careful not to over-mix.
- Fill the Liners: Spoon the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crusts, filling each liner about two-thirds of the way full. Gently tap the muffin tin on the counter to settle the filling and remove any air bubbles.
- Air Fry: Place the muffin tin carefully into the basket of your air fryer. Set the air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and "bake" for 8-10 minutes, or until the centres are just set and the tops are slightly golden. The cheesecake will firm up more as it cools.
- Cool & Serve: Carefully remove the cheesecake bites from the air fryer.12 Let them cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Tips for Success
Soft Cream Cheese is a Must: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This is essential for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Don't Over-mix: Over-mixing the filling can introduce too much air, causing the cheesecakes to crack. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use Silicone Liners: Silicone muffin liners work best for this recipe as they allow for easy removal of the cheesecake bites without sticking.
- Keep a Watchful Eye: All air fryers are different, so keep an eye on your cheesecake bites during the last few minutes of cooking. You want the tops to be set, not cracked or browned too much.
- Topping Ideas: Get creative with your toppings! Serve with a drizzle of caramel, a spoonful of berry compote, or a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips.
