Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Cheesecake is a clever twist on the traditional cheesecake, using the air fryer to create a lighter, fluffier version with less hassle. Instead of waiting hours for the oven to bake and cool, the air fryer speeds up the process while giving you a creamy, perfectly set dessert with a golden, crispy base. The beauty of this recipe is how it combines the indulgent richness of cheesecake with the quick convenience of air frying, making it perfect for when you want to treat yourself but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen.
Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Cheesecake Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To make this cheesecake, you’ll need simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen:
- Digestive biscuits or graham crackers (for the crust): These are crumbled to create a crunchy base.
- Butter: To bind the biscuit crumbs together and give the crust that rich, buttery flavor.
- Cream cheese: This is the main component of the filling. You’ll need full-fat cream cheese for that rich, smooth texture.
- Greek yogurt: This helps make the cheesecake a little lighter while still maintaining that creamy texture.
- Sugar: For sweetness. You can adjust the amount depending on how sweet you like your cheesecake.
- Vanilla extract: This adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the filling.
- Eggs: To help set the cheesecake and give it structure.
- Lemon juice: A small amount of lemon juice adds a refreshing tang and balances the richness of the cream cheese.
That’s it! The beauty of Jamie’s recipe is that it’s straightforward and doesn’t require a long list of exotic ingredients.
Equipment Needed
For this cheesecake, you’ll need a few basic pieces of kitchen equipment:
- Air fryer: The star of the show. You’ll want an air fryer with a baking tray or a pan that fits inside it.
- Springform pan (optional): This is great for cheesecakes because it lets you remove the cheesecake easily after it’s set. If you don’t have one, you can use a regular pan but make sure it fits in your air fryer.
- Mixing bowls: For combining the crust ingredients and the filling.
- Spatula or spoon: For mixing the ingredients and spreading them evenly in the pan.
- Measuring spoons and cups: To get the correct amounts of sugar, lemon juice and other ingredients.
- Grater (optional): For zesting the lemon, if you want to add a bit more citrus flavor.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Cheesecake
Making Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Cheesecake is surprisingly easy and doesn’t take a lot of time. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
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Prepare the crust:
Start by crushing the digestive biscuits (or graham crackers). You can do this by placing them in a ziplock bag and smashing them with a rolling pin or using a food processor. Once crushed, mix the crumbs with melted butter until it forms a wet, sandy mixture.
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Make the filling:
In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, Greek yogurt, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract and lemon juice. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. It’s important not to overmix, though. You just want it to be well combined.
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Assemble the cheesecake:
Press the biscuit mixture into the bottom of your springform pan to form an even crust. Pour the cream cheese filling on top, smoothing it out with a spatula.
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Cook in the air fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to around 160°C (320°F). Place the pan into the air fryer basket and cook for about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it as air fryer models vary. The cheesecake should be set in the middle but still a little wobbly. Don’t worry if it cracks slightly-that’s normal!
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Cool and serve:
Let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature before placing it in the fridge to chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight, if you can). This helps the texture firm up and makes it easier to slice.
What I Learnt
What surprised me most about making this cheesecake is how well the air fryer works for something like this. I was expecting the texture to be a bit off, maybe too dry or too dense but it was the complete opposite. The cheesecake came out creamy, with a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The crust was golden and crispy without being too hard.
Another thing I learned is how much faster the air fryer makes the process. Traditional cheesecakes can take an hour or more in the oven, plus all that cooling time. With the air fryer, you cut down significantly on both baking time and the need to preheat. It’s an absolute game changer for anyone who wants a quick dessert without sacrificing quality.
Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Cheesecake
Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Cheesecake is already a treat in itself but if you’re feeling a bit experimental, there are a few fun tweaks you can play around with to elevate or customize the flavors to your liking.
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Crust Variations:
While a classic biscuit crust (think digestive or graham crackers) is the go-to, try switching it up. You could blend in some cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist or even use crushed nuts like pecans or almonds for a more earthy flavor. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the crumbs will also bring out a lovely warmth.
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Flavored Cheesecake Fillings:
You can easily infuse the filling with different flavors. Instead of plain vanilla, try using lemon zest or orange zest for a refreshing citrus bite. A bit of caramel or hazelnut paste can also add an extra depth of sweetness. If you’re in the mood for something decadent, swirl in some melted chocolate or peanut butter right before air frying.
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Add-ins:
For extra texture, you can fold in mini chocolate chips, chunks of fruit (like berries or banana) or even crushed toffee. If you’re feeling adventurous, a swirl of salted caramel or raspberry puree can make the cheesecake even more irresistible.
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Cheese Options:
While cream cheese is the traditional option, you can mix it up by using mascarpone or ricotta for a different texture and richness. Mascarpone gives the cake a more indulgent, creamy texture while ricotta offers a lighter, fluffier bite.
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Sweetener Swaps:
If you’re looking for a lower-sugar version, consider using stevia, honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugar. Each will give a slightly different flavor, so play around and find your perfect balance. For those who like a more caramelized flavor, coconut sugar can be an excellent alternative.
Storage Tips For Leftovers
If you’ve made enough to have some leftovers (lucky you!), proper storage will keep your cheesecake fresh and delicious for days.
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Fridge Storage:
Once your cheesecake has cooled completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It should stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Avoid keeping it exposed to air as this could dry it out.
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Freezing:
Want to save some for later? Cheesecake freezes surprisingly well. Slice the cheesecake into individual servings, wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, simply let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
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Toppings:
If you’ve added any toppings (like fresh fruit, whipped cream or caramel sauce), it’s best to store those separately. They can become soggy or lose their texture when stored with the cheesecake. Add them just before serving.
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Reviving Texture:
If the cheesecake’s texture feels a little off after freezing, a quick fix is to bring it to room temperature before eating. The creaminess often returns as it warms up. You can also use a bit of whipped cream on top to enhance its richness.
What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Cheesecake?
Pairing the right dishes with cheesecake can turn a simple dessert into a full experience. Here are some ideas to complement the rich, creamy flavors of Jamie’s air fryer cheesecake:
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Fresh Fruits:
Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) work wonders with cheesecake. Their tartness cuts through the creaminess, balancing the sweetness. You could even drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup over them for an extra touch. Sliced kiwi, mango or even a poached pear could also pair well for a unique twist.
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Chocolate or Caramel Sauces:
Drizzling a bit of warm chocolate or caramel sauce over the cheesecake adds an indulgent flair. You can even get creative with different sauces like espresso or toffee. These sweet, rich additions enhance the flavors and make every bite feel like a treat.
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Whipped Cream or Ice Cream:
A dollop of freshly whipped cream is a classic pairing. If you’re craving something colder, a scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream next to the cheesecake can really elevate the experience. The contrast in temperature and texture adds a delightful touch.
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Nutty Toppings:
Try a sprinkle of toasted almonds, pecans or even pistachios for a bit of crunch. The nuts add a savory contrast to the cheesecake’s sweet, smooth filling.
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Beverages:
A strong cup of coffee or espresso is a great match with cheesecake. The bitterness of the coffee contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the dessert. For something a bit more festive, a glass of dessert wine like a late-harvest Riesling or Moscato could add a bit of sparkle to your cheesecake indulgence. If you’re into non-alcoholic options, an herbal tea (like chamomile or peppermint) can refresh your palate between bites.
FAQs
How Do I Make Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Cheesecake?
You’ll start with a base of crushed biscuits and butter, then add a smooth cheesecake filling of cream cheese, eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Pop it in the air fryer for about 25 minutes at 160°C.
Can I Use A Different Biscuit For The Base In Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Cheesecake?
Yes! Digestive biscuits are the classic choice, but you can swap for graham crackers, Oreos, or even gluten-free biscuits for a twist.
What’s The Best Air Fryer Temperature For Jamie Oliver’s Cheesecake?
Set your air fryer to 160°C (320°F). This ensures the cheesecake cooks evenly without burning the top.
