Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls combine the rich and creamy flavor of cheesecake with the sweetness of cherry pie filling, all wrapped in a crispy egg roll shell. This fun and delicious twist on classic cheesecake offers a portable, crunchy dessert that’s perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a sweet treat for yourself. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and irresistible when served warm.
The Story Behind Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls
Cheesecake egg rolls are a modern take on traditional cheesecake, offering a more convenient, handheld option. While cheesecake originated in ancient Greece and has been enjoyed in various forms for centuries, adding cherries and frying the filling in an egg roll wrapper is a delicious twist that adds a layer of texture and warmth. This dessert first gained popularity in American fusion cuisine, blending traditional Asian cooking techniques (like frying egg rolls) with beloved American dessert flavors. It’s a crowd-pleaser and a hit at any party or special occasion.
Key Ingredients and Why They Matter
Egg Roll Wrappers
Egg roll wrappers are key for creating the crispy shell that holds the creamy cheesecake filling. They fry up perfectly golden and crunchy, adding a nice contrast to the smooth filling.
- Substitution Tip: If you can’t find egg roll wrappers, you can use spring roll wrappers, but they will be thinner and less sturdy.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese forms the base of the cheesecake filling, providing that rich and tangy flavor we love in cheesecakes.
- Pro Tip: Use full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and texture. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature before mixing for a smooth filling.
Cherry Pie Filling
Cherry pie filling adds sweetness and a fruity contrast to the richness of the cream cheese. You can make your own or use canned cherry pie filling for convenience.
- Substitution Tip: If you’re not a fan of cherries, you can substitute with blueberry, strawberry, or any other pie filling of your choice.
How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cherry pie filling
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the cherry pie filling, ensuring the cherries are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 3: Assemble the Egg Rolls
- Lay out an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one corner facing you like a diamond shape.
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the cheesecake filling mixture onto the center of the wrapper.
- Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll up tightly, sealing the edge with a dab of water to prevent the roll from unraveling.
- Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Step 4: Fry the Egg Rolls
- Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the egg rolls into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried egg rolls to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Dust the warm egg rolls with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Serve them warm, and for an extra indulgence, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with chocolate sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls are best served fresh and warm. They make a great dessert for parties or family gatherings and are perfect alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a drizzle of caramel sauce. You can also serve them with a cup of coffee or tea for a more casual treat. Leftovers can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.
Variations and Add-Ins
Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls
For a decadent twist, add mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling before rolling. You can also drizzle the finished egg rolls with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
Fruit Swap
Don’t like cherries? Substitute the cherry pie filling with your favorite fruit filling such as blueberry, apple, or strawberry for a different flavor profile.
Baked Cheesecake Egg Rolls
If you prefer a lighter option, bake the egg rolls instead of frying. Brush them with a little oil or melted butter and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Dietary Adaptations
Precise Diet Classifications:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally vegetarian, as it contains no meat products.
- Gluten-Free: Unfortunately, traditional egg roll wrappers contain gluten, but you can use gluten-free egg roll wrappers to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free option, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and ensure the egg roll wrappers are also dairy-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the egg rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator, uncooked, for up to 1 day. Fry them just before serving for the best results.
Can I freeze Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked egg rolls. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to serve, fry them from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.
How do I reheat leftover egg rolls?
To reheat leftover egg rolls, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this will make the egg rolls soggy.
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