Air Fryer Chocolate Cheesecake Cupcakes

Air Fryer Chocolate Cheesecake Cupcakes — You’re going to LOVE this recipe. The cheesecake is so creamy and smooth, and you’ll wonder how it was possible without a traditional oven! If you want to get your hands on an air fryer but haven’t yet purchased it, now’s as good a time as any. After one bite of this delicious dessert, I promise you will be hooked for life!

This straightforward and delicious chocolate dessert, Air Fryer Chocolate Cheesecake Cupcakes, is the perfect combination for an easy air fryer cheesecake recipe. Light, rich, and sinful, it’s filled with chocolate and topped with whipped cream and freshly cut strawberries.

When looking for an easy dessert but wanting many flavors, reach for this recipe. Who doesn’t love chocolate, and who doesn’t love cheesecake? Today, I put them together for a great dessert. You will have a great dessert in your air fryer within a few minutes.

If you want more Air Fryer Dessert Recipes, try my Air Fryer Cherry Cheesecake, Air Fryer Cannoli, or even my Air Fryer Blueberry Turnovers.

What Is Chocolate Cheesecake Cupcakes?

What is chocolate cheesecake cupcakes? This may be one of the most commonly asked questions.

Chocolate cheesecake cupcakes are delightful individual-sized desserts that combine the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the indulgent flavor of chocolate. These cupcakes typically feature a chocolate cookie or graham cracker crust topped with a luscious chocolate cheesecake filling. They are baked until set and then chilled before serving, often garnished with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added decadence. Chocolate cheesecake cupcakes offer the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, making them a popular choice for chocolate lovers and enthusiasts.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

You will love Air Fryer Chocolate Cheesecake Cupcakes for several reasons:

• Effortless Preparation: Using the air fryer streamlines the baking process, allowing you to whip up these delectable treats with minimal effort and in a fraction of the time it takes to bake them in a traditional oven.
• Perfect Portion Control: Air fryer chocolate cheesecake cupcakes are conveniently portioned into individual servings, making them ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth without overindulging. Plus, they’re great for sharing at gatherings or parties.
• Crispy Crust, Creamy Filling: The air fryer creates a crispy crust on the bottom of the cupcakes while maintaining a creamy and smooth cheesecake filling, resulting in a delightful texture contrast that enhances the overall eating experience.
• Versatile Flavor Options: While chocolate cheesecake is a classic favorite, you can easily customize the flavor by incorporating different types of chocolate (such as dark, milk, or white chocolate), adding swirls of caramel or peanut butter, or topping them with your favorite fruit compote for endless delicious variations.
• Less Cleanup: Air frying eliminates the need for multiple pots and pans, reducing cleanup time and making this dessert hassle-free for busy individuals who still crave homemade sweets.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Chocolate Cheesecake Cupcakes

Indulge in the decadent goodness of Air Fryer Chocolate Cheesecake Cupcakes, a delightful twist on the classic cheesecake dessert made conveniently in your air fryer. These individual-sized treats boast a crispy chocolate crust and a creamy cheesecake filling, offering the perfect balance of richness and sweetness in every bite.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: Crushed graham crackers create the cupcake’s crust, providing a rich and indulgent base that complements the creamy cheesecake filling.
• Butter: Melted butter is mixed with the crushed chocolate cookies to bind the crust together, ensuring it holds its shape during baking and adds a buttery richness to the overall flavor.
• Cream Cheese: Cream cheese forms the creamy and tangy base of the cheesecake filling, lending the cupcakes a smooth and luxurious texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a hint of warmth and depth to the flavor profile of the cheesecake filling, enhancing its richness and complexity.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling, balancing the cream cheese’s tanginess and enhancing the cupcakes’ sweetness.
• Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent in the cheesecake filling, helping to create a smooth and cohesive texture as the cupcakes bake.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate: Melted semi-sweet chocolate is folded into the cheesecake filling, infusing it with intense chocolate flavor and adding richness and depth to the overall taste.
• Whipped Cream: Whipped cream is dolloped on top of the baked cheesecake cupcakes before serving, adding a light and airy finish that complements the creamy cheesecake filling and adds a touch of elegance to the presentation.

How To Make Chocolate Cheesecake Cupcakes In Air Fryer

To make Air Fryer Chocolate Cheesecake Cupcakes, follow these simple steps:

Start by lining the muffin tin with silicone liners, then mix the cracker crumbs with the melted butter in a small mixing bowl—press about one tablespoon of the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of the muffin liner. Press firmly.

Air fry for 5-8 minutes at 330 degrees F, air fryer setting. Let them cool while you make the filling.

Mix the cream cheese, vanilla extract, and eggs in a large bowl. Then add in the sugar and melted chocolate and mix well. Add 3-4 tablespoons of the cheesecake batter to the prepared crust. Place them back into the air fryer for 8-12 minutes at 320 degrees F. They are done when the cheesecake is firm in the middle.

Let the cupcakes cool until they are at room temperature, then place them into the refrigerator for about 3 hours; this will help them firm up. Add some whipped cream, chocolate chips, strawberries, and chocolate ganache to serve.

Recipe Variations

Here are some delicious recipe variations for Air Fryer Chocolate Cheesecake Cupcakes:

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes: Incorporate a layer of peanut butter between the chocolate crust and cheesecake filling for a delightful chocolate and peanut butter flavor combination. Top with chopped peanuts or peanut butter cups for added texture and richness.
• Mint Chocolate Chip Cupcakes: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cheesecake filling for a refreshing minty twist. Mix in chocolate chips into the filling for bursts of chocolatey goodness. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color and flavor.
• Raspberry Swirl Cupcakes: Swirl raspberry jam or puree into the cheesecake filling before baking for a tangy and fruity contrast to the rich chocolate flavor. The vibrant raspberry swirls not only add visual appeal but also enhance the taste of the cupcakes.
• Salted Caramel Cupcakes: Drizzle homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce over the cheesecake filling before baking for a decadent sweet and salty flavor combination. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel for extra flavor depth and contrast.
• Chocolate Orange Cupcakes: Add orange zest or orange extract to the cheesecake filling for a zesty and citrusy twist. The combination of chocolate and orange creates a delightful flavor harmony that is both refreshing and indulgent. Garnish with orange zest or chocolate curls for a beautiful presentation.

Pro Tips

Here are some pro tips to ensure your Air Fryer Chocolate Cheesecake Cupcakes turn out perfectly:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before making the cheesecake filling. This will result in a smoother and creamier texture.
• Line the Muffin Tin: Line the muffin tin with cupcake liners to make it easier to remove the cheesecake cupcakes after baking. It also helps in preventing the crust from sticking to the pan.
• Prevent Overmixing: Avoid overmix the cheesecake filling, especially after adding the eggs. Overmixing can incorporate too much air into the batter, resulting in cracks on the surface of the cupcakes.
• Chill the Cheesecake: After baking, allow the cheesecake cupcakes to cool completely at room temperature before chilling them in the refrigerator. Chilling helps the cheesecake set and allows the flavors to meld together for a better taste.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cheesecake cupcakes towards the end of the cooking time to prevent overbaking. The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle. Overbaking can result in a dry and crumbly texture.
• Garnish Before Serving: Add toppings such as whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries just before serving to maintain their freshness and visual appeal. This also allows you to customize each cheesecake cupcake according to individual preferences.

Faq’s

Can I use a different type of crust for the cupcakes? Yes, you can customize the crust by using different types of cookies or crackers. Graham crackers, chocolate wafer cookies, or even Oreo cookies can be used to create a delicious crust for your cheesecake cupcakes.

How can I prevent cracks from forming on the surface of the cheesecake? To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter, and do not overbake the cupcakes. Additionally, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually by turning off the oven and leaving the door slightly ajar for a few minutes can help prevent cracks.

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time? Yes, you can make the cheesecake cupcakes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze Chocolate Cheesecake Cupcakes? Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake cupcakes for longer storage. Once they are completely chilled, wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

How do I know when the cheesecake cupcakes are done baking? The edges of the cheesecake cupcakes should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle when gently shaken. Avoid overbaking, as this can result in a dry and overcooked texture.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the cheesecake filling? While you can use low-fat cream cheese, keep in mind that it may affect the texture and richness of the cheesecake filling. Full-fat cream cheese is preferred for a creamier and more decadent result.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• AIR FRYER SMORES COOKIE CUPS
• AIR FRYER, DEEP FRIED ENTENMANN’S CHERRY PIE
• INSTANT POT MINI BLUEBERRY MUFFINS
• AIR FRYER S’MORES PIE FOR ONE
• AIR FRYER SLICE AND BAKE COOKIES

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