Introduction

This homemade air fryer cheesecake is a creamy, smooth dessert with a crunchy graham cracker crust. It’s easy to make and perfect for those who want a luscious cheesecake without heating up the oven. Topped with your favorite fruit pie filling, it’s sure to impress.

A slice of cheesecake is shown on a white plate, with three clear layers: a bottom brown crumbly crust, a thick middle creamy pale yellow layer, and a thin smooth light golden top layer. On top, there is a glossy bright red sauce that drips down the side, covering several whole strawberries that appear fresh and shiny. The cake slice is positioned slightly off-center, with a silver fork resting on the plate in the background. The surface beneath the plate has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (from one sleeve of graham crackers)
⅓ cup butter (melted)
24 ounces Philadelphia cream cheese (softened)
14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 eggs
1 can strawberry pie filling (or raspberry, blueberry)

Instructions

Step 1: Measure and cut a piece of parchment paper to fit the bottom of a 7 inch springform or removable bottom cheesecake pan. Spray the pan all around with non-stick spray. Place the parchment in the pan, then spray the paper as well.
Step 2: Add graham crackers to a food processor or blender and process until crumbs form. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Firmly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan using the bottom of a cup or glass to help press evenly.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand or stand mixer until creamy and smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Step 4: Pour the cheesecake batter over the graham cracker crust in the prepared pan. Place the pan inside the air fryer and gently close the lid.
Step 5: Air fry at 290°F for 20 minutes. Check the top to ensure it’s not browning too quickly; if it is, cover the top with a piece of foil. Reduce the heat to 240°F and continue to air fry for another 20 minutes.
Step 6: When cooking is complete, allow the cheesecake to rest in the air fryer for 20 minutes. The center should still be slightly jiggly when you tap the side of the pan. Remove from the air fryer and refrigerate for at least 4 to 6 hours or overnight.
Step 7: Keep the cheesecake refrigerated. Before serving, top with the strawberry pie filling or your preferred fruit topping.

Tips & Variations

Use a springform pan that fits comfortably in your air fryer to ensure even cooking.
Swap graham cracker crumbs for digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a different crust flavor.
If you don’t have sweetened condensed milk, you can make your own by simmering sweetened evaporated milk or substitute with heavy cream and sugar, but texture may vary.
Try other fruit toppings like raspberry or blueberry pie filling to customize your cheesecake.

Storage

Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it is well wrapped or placed in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

A round golden-brown baked cheesecake sits fully cooked in a silver baking pan, showing a slightly darker, uneven spot in the center and a smooth firm surface with subtle browned specks around it. The pan is placed on a copper wire cooling rack with a shiny metallic grid pattern. All of this rests on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a regular oven instead of an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake this cheesecake in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 40 to 50 minutes until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.

Do I need a special pan for air fryer cheesecake?

It’s best to use a springform or removable bottom pan that fits inside your air fryer basket to allow for even cooking and easy removal of the cheesecake.