Prep Your Equipment: Line a 7–8 inch square pan with parchment, leaving overhang for easy lifting. Lightly grease with cooking spray. If using silicone molds, set them on a small tray that fits your air fryer basket for easy transfer.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Set to 300°F (150°C). Preheating helps the crust set quickly and the filling cook evenly.

Make the Crust: In a bowl, stir crushed graham crackers, brown sugar, and melted butter until it resembles damp sand. It should hold together when pinched.

Press and Par-Bake: Firmly press the crust into the lined pan or into the bottoms of molds. Air fry for 4–5 minutes until lightly fragrant. Let cool for 5 minutes while you make the filling.

Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy, about 1–2 minutes. Scrape the bowl as needed to avoid lumps.

Add Sugar, Sour Cream, and Flavor: Mix in granulated sugar, sour cream, vanilla, lemon zest (if using), and a pinch of salt until silky and combined. Do not overmix.

Incorporate Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low just until combined. Do not whip air into the batter; air bubbles can cause cracks.

Fill the Pan or Molds: Pour the batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top. Tap gently to pop surface bubbles.

Air Fry: Cook at 300°F (150°C). For an 8-inch pan, start with 18–22 minutes. For muffin-size molds, 10–14 minutes. The centers should still have a slight jiggle, and the edges should look set. Avoid overbaking—they’ll firm up as they cool.

Cool Gradually: Turn off the air fryer, crack it open slightly, and let the cheesecake rest for 10 minutes. This reduces sudden temperature changes and helps prevent cracks.

Chill to Set: Transfer to a cooling rack until room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (4 hours for cleanest cuts). Cold cheesecake cuts neatly and holds its shape.

Slice Into Bites: Lift the slab out with parchment and cut into 1–2 inch squares. Wipe the knife between cuts for sharp edges. If using molds, gently pop them out.

Top and Serve: Add fresh berries, a drizzle of chocolate or caramel, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Serve chilled or allow to sit at room temp for 10 minutes for extra creaminess.