If you’re looking for a unique twist on a classic dessert, Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls are the perfect choice. Combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, tangy burst of cherries, all wrapped up in a crispy egg roll shell, this treat is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Not only are these egg rolls delicious, but they are also surprisingly easy to make. Read on to discover how to create this mouth-watering dessert and impress your family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- For the Egg Rolls:
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- Water (for sealing the wrappers)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- For the Topping:
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
- Chocolate or caramel sauce (optional, for drizzling)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Start by making the cheesecake filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to beat the mixture until it is smooth and creamy. Once well mixed, gently fold in the cherry pie filling, ensuring that the cherries are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
2. Assemble the Egg Rolls
Lay out an egg roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface with one corner pointing towards you, forming a diamond shape. Place about 2 tablespoons of the cheesecake and cherry mixture in the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll up the wrapper tightly. Seal the edges with a little water to ensure they stay closed during frying. Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
3. Fry the Egg Rolls
In a large, deep skillet or a deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the egg rolls in the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until they are golden brown and crispy, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
4. Add the Finishing Touches
Once all the egg rolls are fried and slightly cooled, you can add the finishing touches. Dust the egg rolls with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. For a more decadent treat, drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce. Serve warm and enjoy the crispy exterior and creamy, cherry-filled interior.
Tips for the Perfect Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls
- Softening Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is adequately softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Sealing the Egg Rolls: Ensure the egg rolls are sealed well to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for even frying and to achieve the perfect crispy texture.
Why Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls?
Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that is hard to resist. The crispy shell encases a creamy and tangy filling, providing a satisfying bite every time. This dessert is not only delicious but also versatile. You can experiment with different pie fillings or add in extras like chocolate chips or nuts for a personalized twist.
Conclusion
Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls are a fun and tasty way to enjoy the classic flavors of cheesecake in a new format. They are perfect for parties, special occasions, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, anyone can whip up these delightful desserts and enjoy the compliments that are sure to follow. Try this recipe today and experience the irresistible combination of cherry cheesecake and crispy egg rolls.
Serving and Storage Tips for Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls
Serving Tips
- Best Served Warm: Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls are best enjoyed warm, right after frying. The contrast between the hot, crispy exterior and the creamy, slightly tangy filling is most pronounced when the egg rolls are freshly made.
- Accompaniments: Consider serving these egg rolls with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. The cool creaminess of the ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm, crispy egg rolls.
- Presentation: For a beautiful presentation, arrange the egg rolls on a platter and dust them lightly with powdered sugar. Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for an elegant touch that adds both visual appeal and additional flavor.
- Dipping Sauces: Provide small bowls of dipping sauces such as chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or a berry coulis. This allows guests to customize their dessert experience and adds an interactive element to the meal.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: If you have leftover egg rolls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3 days. Ensure the container is well-sealed to maintain the egg rolls’ freshness.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the egg rolls. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the egg rolls to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat refrigerated or frozen egg rolls, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the egg rolls on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes if refrigerated, or 20-25 minutes if frozen. This method helps to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the egg rolls soggy.
- Avoiding Moisture: When storing egg rolls, ensure they are completely cool before sealing them in containers. Trapping steam can create moisture, leading to soggy egg rolls.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls at their best, whether you’re serving them fresh or enjoying leftovers. These tips will help maintain the delightful texture and flavor of this delectable dessert, making every bite as delicious as the first.
1. Can I bake Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls for a healthier alternative to frying. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly brush them with melted butter or oil to help them crisp up. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, turning them halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.
2. Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh cherries, you can make a simple cherry filling. Pit and chop about 1 cup of fresh cherries. Combine them with 1/4 cup of sugar and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the cherries are soft. Let it cool before folding it into the cheesecake mixture.
3. How can I prevent the egg rolls from getting soggy?
To prevent the egg rolls from getting soggy, make sure they are completely sealed before frying to avoid any filling leakage. Additionally, avoid overstuffing them. When frying, ensure the oil is hot enough (350°F or 175°C) so the egg rolls cook quickly and become crispy. After frying, place the egg rolls on a wire rack instead of paper towels to allow any excess oil to drain away while keeping them crisp.
4. What can I use as a substitute for egg roll wrappers?
If you can’t find egg roll wrappers, you can use spring roll wrappers or even phyllo dough as a substitute. For spring roll wrappers, follow the same process as with egg roll wrappers. If using phyllo dough, layer several sheets together with a light brushing of butter or oil between each sheet, then wrap and roll the filling as you would with egg roll wrappers. Note that phyllo dough will result in a flakier texture.
PrintCherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls
These delightful egg rolls feature a creamy cheesecake filling paired with sweet cherry pie filling, all encased in a crispy wrapper. Perfect as a dessert or a sweet snack, they’re sure to impress at any gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 egg rolls 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
- 8 egg roll wrappers (6x6 inches)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, lemon zest, granulated sugar, and lemon juice.
- Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
-
Assemble the Egg Rolls:
- Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface with one corner pointing toward you (diamond shape).
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cheesecake mixture onto the center of the wrapper.
- Top with 6-8 cherries from the pie filling.
- Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water using your finger or a pastry brush.
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly toward the top corner, ensuring a good seal.
- Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
-
Fry the Egg Rolls:
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the egg rolls in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
-
Serve:
- Dust the egg rolls with powdered sugar, if desired.
- Serve warm, optionally with additional cherry pie filling or whipped cream for dipping.
Notes
- Air Fryer Option: To reduce oil, preheat the air fryer to 390°F (199°C). Lightly spray the assembled egg rolls with cooking spray and air fry for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Baking Option: For baking, preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Place egg rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.