Air Fryer Turtle Cheesecake Recipe: A Decadent Dessert

The Air Fryer Turtle Cheesecake Recipe is a delicious and easy way to create a rich, indulgent dessert without needing an oven. This recipe combines a smooth and creamy cheesecake base with a sweet, nutty topping, inspired by the classic turtle candy. To start, make a simple graham cracker crust and press it into the bottom of a springform pan. The cheesecake filling is made by blending cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, ensuring a velvety texture. Pour the filling over the crust and cook it in the air fryer at a low temperature for about 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness. Once cooled, drizzle with caramel sauce, sprinkle with chopped pecans, and add melted chocolate for that signature turtle topping. The Air Fryer Turtle Cheesecake Recipe offers a quick and convenient way to enjoy a decadent dessert with minimal effort, perfect for any occasion.

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Air Fryer Turtle Cheesecake Recipe: A Decadent Dessert with a Crunchy Twist

Are you craving a rich, creamy, and indulgent dessert with a delightful twist? If so, look no further than the Air Fryer Turtle Cheesecake! This cheesecake recipe is an irresistible fusion of traditional cheesecake, the classic flavors of turtle candies, and the magic of air fryer technology. The result is a perfectly creamy, chocolate-drizzled, and nut-studded cheesecake, all with a crispy golden crust.

Turtle candies are a popular treat that combines chocolate, caramel, and pecans, and this recipe brings those flavors together in a decadent cheesecake. The best part? You can make this heavenly dessert with your air fryer in less time than it takes to bake a traditional cheesecake. Whether you’re hosting a special event or simply want to treat yourself, this Air Fryer Turtle Cheesecake will be a showstopper.

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Nutrition: This turtle cheesecake is rich and indulgent, so it’s important to enjoy it in moderation. Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving, which assumes the recipe yields 8 servings:

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Total Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 220mg
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 37g
• Protein: 5g

Note: These values are approximations and can vary depending on the ingredients used and serving size.

Ingredients: For the Crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup sour cream

For the Turtle Toppings:

• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
• 1/4 cup toasted pecans, chopped (for garnish)

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Active Time: 25 minutes
Resting Time: 1-2 hours (for cooling and setting)
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (includes prep, baking, and cooling)
Servings: 8
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Equipment Needed:

• Air fryer (6-quart or larger recommended)
• Springform pan (6-inch size is ideal for air fryer use)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Instructions:

1. Prepare the crust:
   • In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, finely chopped pecans, sugar, and salt.
   • Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture is well combined and looks like wet sand.
   • Press the crust mixture into the bottom of the springform pan, pressing it firmly to ensure an even layer. Set aside.
2. Make the cheesecake filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until well incorporated.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract, heavy cream, and sour cream, mixing until smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the cheesecake:
   • Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top and make it even.
   • Carefully tap the pan on the countertop a few times to remove any air bubbles from the filling.
4. Air fry the cheesecake:
   • Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 3 minutes.
   • Place the springform pan in the air fryer basket and air fry for about 25 minutes. Check for doneness by gently shaking the pan. The cheesecake should have a slight jiggle in the center but not be runny.
   • If needed, air fry for an additional 5 minutes to ensure it is fully set. Note that cooking times may vary based on your air fryer model.
   • Once done, remove the cheesecake from the air fryer and let it cool to room temperature on a wire rack.
5. Chill the cheesecake:
   • After the cheesecake has cooled, place it in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours (or overnight) to allow it to set completely and firm up.
6. Prepare the turtle toppings:
   • While the cheesecake chills, prepare the turtle topping by melting the chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
   • In a small saucepan, heat the caramel sauce over low heat until it becomes warm and easy to drizzle.
   • Once the cheesecake is chilled and set, remove it from the springform pan.
   • Drizzle the melted chocolate and caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake, ensuring it’s evenly spread.
   • Sprinkle the toasted pecans on top to complete the turtle look.
7. Serve and enjoy:
   • Slice the cheesecake into 8 even pieces. Serve each slice as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream or additional caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Tips for Success:

• Air Fryer Variations: Since air fryers can vary in their cooking times and heat distribution, it’s important to check your cheesecake midway through cooking. If your air fryer runs hot, reduce the temperature slightly.
• Texture: For a super smooth cheesecake filling, make sure to beat the cream cheese thoroughly until creamy and free of lumps before adding the other ingredients.
• Storage: Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. If freezing, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

Conclusion:

The Air Fryer Turtle Cheesecake is a must-try dessert for anyone who loves a mix of rich, creamy cheesecake with crunchy and sweet turtle candy toppings. The air fryer makes it a quick and easy option that still yields an impressive result. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a dinner party, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

With minimal effort and a few simple ingredients, you can create a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every decadent bite of this melt-in-your-mouth cheesecake with the delightful combination of caramel, chocolate, and pecans!

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Ashley Doyle

I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.