Air fryer Bailey’s cheesecake bites were born after I wanted a small-batch dessert that felt fancy but didn’t require a full water bath in the oven. My first test cracked on top and overcooked around the edges. After testing this three ways, lower temperature, silicone molds, and adjusting the cream ratio, I found the perfect method. Gentle air fryer heat and a slightly looser batter created smooth, creamy centers without cracks.
They’re rich, velvety, and perfectly portioned.
Why This Air Fryer Bailey’s Cheesecake Bites Recipe Works
Traditional cheesecake bakes low and slow in a water bath. In the air fryer, circulating heat cooks faster, so lowering the temperature to 300°F (150°C) prevents overbaking.
Using room-temperature cream cheese ensures a smooth batter. A small amount of Bailey’s Irish Cream adds flavor without thinning the mixture too much. Silicone mini molds help distribute heat evenly and prevent sticking. The result is creamy centers with lightly set edges and no dry texture.
Timing for Air Fryer Bailey’s Cheesecake Bites
Prep Time: 8 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients for Air Fryer Bailey’s Cheesecake Bites
Makes about 6 mini cheesecake bites.
Crust:
- ½ cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons Bailey’s Irish Cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- Chocolate drizzle
- Whipped cream
- Cocoa powder dusting
- Chocolate shavings
How to Make Bailey’s Cheesecake Bites in the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Press about 1 tablespoon of crust mixture into the bottom of each silicone mini mold.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add egg, Bailey’s, and vanilla. Mix just until combined (do not overbeat).
- Divide filling evenly over crusts, filling about ¾ full.
- Place molds in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry at 300°F (150°C) for 8–10 minutes. Centers should look slightly set but still jiggle gently. Internal temperature should reach about 150–155°F (65–68°C).
- Turn off air fryer and let cheesecake bites sit inside for 5 minutes.
- Remove and cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving.
- Add desired toppings before serving.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Bailey’s Cheesecake Bites
- Room temperature ingredients: Prevent lumps.
- Don’t overmix: Avoid incorporating too much air.
- Slight jiggle is good: They firm up as they chill.
- Low temperature is key: Prevents cracking.
- Chill completely: Texture improves after refrigeration.
- Silicone molds work best: Easy removal and even baking.
Storing and Serving
Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator.
Serving Tip: Best served chilled with a light chocolate drizzle or whipped cream.
Variations:
- Add mini chocolate chips to filling.
- Use Oreo crumbs for the crust.
- Add espresso powder for mocha flavor.
- Top with caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Conclusion
Air fryer Bailey’s cheesecake bites are creamy, rich, and surprisingly simple to make. The air fryer gives you perfectly portioned mini cheesecakes without the hassle of a water bath. Once you try this method, small-batch cheesecake becomes effortless.
