Cheesecake Phyllo Cups in Air Fryer or Oven

Cheesecake Phyllo Cups are elegant, bite-sized treats that deliver the creamy richness of cheesecake in a crisp, golden phyllo shell. These miniature desserts are simple to prepare and perfect for entertaining, with the added flexibility of being made in either an air fryer or a traditional oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Made with ready-to-use phyllo shells and a simple cheesecake filling, these cups come together with minimal effort.
• Dual Cooking Options: Whether you prefer the air fryer for its speed or the oven for batch cooking, this recipe adapts easily to both methods.
• Perfect for Entertaining: The individual serving size makes these ideal for parties, gatherings, or as elegant after-dinner treats.
• Customizable: Top them with fruits, chocolate, or any favorite garnish to suit the occasion or personal taste.
• Light and Satisfying: The crisp phyllo and smooth filling provide a well-balanced texture in each bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 30 phyllo shells
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup plain yogurt
• 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
• 4 teaspoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh fruit or berries (e.g., strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)

Directions

Oven Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a bowl, blend together the cream cheese, yogurt, sugar, and flour until smooth.
3. Stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Arrange the phyllo shells on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spoon or pipe the cheesecake mixture into each shell.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the filling is set but not browned.
7. Allow to cool completely, then top with fresh fruit before serving.

Air Fryer Method:

1. Prepare the cheesecake filling as instructed above.
2. Arrange the phyllo shells in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are stable and not overcrowded.
3. Fill each shell with the cheesecake mixture.
4. Air fry at 325°F (163°C) for 8–10 minutes until the filling is set.
5. Let cool completely, then garnish with fruit or preferred toppings.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 10 servings (3 cups per serving)
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12–15 minutes (oven) / 8–10 minutes (air fryer)
• Total Time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

• Mini Chocolate Cheesecakes: Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder to the filling and top with chocolate chips.
• Lemon Cheesecake Bites: Increase lemon juice and add lemon zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Berry Swirl: Drop a small amount of berry puree into the filling before baking and swirl gently.
• Nutty Topping: Sprinkle chopped toasted nuts or granola over the top for added texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: These are best served cold or at room temperature. If needed, reheat briefly in the oven at 300°F (149°C) for 5 minutes to refresh the phyllo texture, but avoid over-warming the filling.

FAQs

How far in advance can I make these?

You can prepare the filling and assemble the cups a day in advance. Add fruit toppings just before serving.

Can I use mini tart shells instead of phyllo?

Yes, mini tart shells can be used as a substitute, but the texture will be different—less crispy and more cookie-like.

Is it okay to freeze these cheesecake cups?

Freezing is not recommended, as it may cause the phyllo to lose its crispness and the cheesecake to become watery.

Can I make this recipe sugar-free?

Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia or erythritol.

What other toppings work well besides fruit?

Chocolate drizzle, caramel sauce, jam, or crushed nuts all work well as delicious toppings.

Can I serve these warm?

They are best served chilled or at room temperature, as heating the filling too much can alter its texture.

What if I don’t have yogurt?

You can substitute sour cream for yogurt in the filling without affecting the taste or texture.

Can I make a large cheesecake using this filling?

Yes, the filling can be used for a standard cheesecake, though baking times will need to be adjusted accordingly.

How do I prevent the phyllo from getting soggy?

Only fill the phyllo cups shortly before serving and avoid overfilling to maintain crispness.

Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Flavored cream cheese can be used, but be mindful of the added sweetness or flavorings they may bring.

Conclusion

Cheesecake Phyllo Cups are a refined, crowd-pleasing dessert that comes together with minimal effort. With options for both oven and air fryer preparation, and endless variations to suit your taste, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Whether for a party, holiday, or quiet evening at home, these creamy, crisp bites are always a hit.

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