These Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls deliver a delightful contrast of textures and flavors — the crispy, golden egg roll wrapper encases a rich, creamy cheesecake filling paired with tangy, sweet cherries. The dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and an elegant finishing touch.
Perfect for summer gatherings or a fun dessert twist, these egg rolls combine the nostalgic flavors of cherry cheesecake with the crunchy pleasure of a fried treat. They’re easy to make, fun to serve, and guaranteed to impress anyone with a sweet tooth looking for something a little different.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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8 egg roll wrappers
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1 cup cream cheese, softened
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1/4 cup powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped
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2 tablespoons granulated sugar
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening cherry filling)
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Vegetable oil, for frying
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Powdered sugar, for dusting
Directions:
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In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
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In a small saucepan, combine the chopped cherries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch (if using). Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the cherries soften and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
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Lay out one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you (like a diamond shape).
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Place about 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture in the center of the wrapper, then add 1 tablespoon of the cherry filling on top.
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Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll up tightly, sealing the top corner with a dab of water. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
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Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
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Fry the egg rolls in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally. Drain on paper towels.
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Dust with powdered sugar before serving warm.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 220 kcal per egg roll | Servings: 8 egg rolls
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Unlike traditional baked cheesecakes or cherry pies, Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls are quick to prepare and perfect for portion control. Each egg roll is an individual serving, making it ideal for parties, gatherings, or even a quick indulgence at home without the fuss of slicing a whole cheesecake. The frying process imparts a golden, crispy exterior that contrasts with the creamy filling inside, offering an unexpected twist on a classic dessert.
Moreover, these egg rolls are incredibly versatile. While cherries are a natural pairing with cheesecake, you can experiment with other fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or even a mixed berry compote. This flexibility makes the recipe adaptable to different seasons and flavor preferences. The use of egg roll wrappers instead of traditional pastry dough also means the cooking time is shorter, and cleanup is easier—making it accessible even for beginner cooks.
The History and Inspiration Behind the Recipe
The idea of combining cheesecake with egg rolls reflects a broader trend in modern cuisine: the blending of different culinary traditions to create innovative dishes. Egg rolls, traditionally an Asian appetizer, are typically savory and filled with vegetables or meat. However, the versatility of the wrapper and the frying technique has inspired countless creative adaptations—sweet egg rolls being one of the most popular.
Cherry cheesecake, a classic American dessert, is loved for its creamy texture and the sweet, tart cherry topping. Marrying these two concepts creates a dessert that honors both culinary heritages, resulting in a dish that’s playful, nostalgic, and sophisticated all at once. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy fusion cuisine and want to try something unexpected and delightful.
Tips for Perfecting Your Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls
To achieve the best results with this recipe, there are a few important tips to keep in mind:
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Choose the right cherries: Fresh cherries are ideal when in season, but frozen cherries can work just as well if properly thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture. Too much liquid can make the egg rolls soggy or cause the filling to leak during frying.
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Cream cheese consistency: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing with sugar and vanilla. This helps create a smooth filling that blends easily with the cherry compote.
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Sealing the egg rolls: Use a small amount of water to seal the edges of the egg roll wrappers securely. This prevents the filling from leaking out during frying and helps the rolls stay intact and crisp.
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Oil temperature: Maintaining the oil at the right frying temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) is crucial. Too hot, and the egg rolls will brown too quickly without warming the filling; too cool, and they’ll absorb too much oil and become greasy.
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Serve fresh and warm: Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls are best enjoyed immediately after frying when the exterior is still crisp and the filling is warm and creamy.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
While the classic cherry and cream cheese filling is delightful, you can easily modify the recipe to suit different tastes and occasions. Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese for a warm spice note. Incorporating chopped nuts such as toasted almonds or pecans into the filling can add an additional layer of texture and flavor.
For a healthier twist, try baking the egg rolls instead of frying them. Lightly spray them with cooking oil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until golden and crispy.
When serving, dust the finished egg rolls with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for extra sweetness and shine. Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to turn this treat into a more indulgent dessert.
Why You’ll Love Making These at Home
One of the best things about Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls is how simple and rewarding they are to make. The ingredients are straightforward and commonly found in most kitchens, and the assembly process is quick and enjoyable. Making these egg rolls at home allows you to control the sweetness and quality of the filling while impressing family and friends with a unique dessert that looks far more complicated than it really is.
This recipe also encourages creativity and experimentation. Whether you stick with the classic cherry version or explore other fruit combinations, each batch can be personalized to your liking. Plus, the portable nature of egg rolls makes them an excellent option for potlucks, picnics, or parties where finger foods are preferred.
Conclusion: A Dessert That Delights Every Time
Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls are the perfect example of how two simple favorites can be combined into something extraordinary. Their crisp exterior and creamy, fruity filling make for an unforgettable taste and texture experience that’s both nostalgic and fresh. This dessert is a fun, approachable way to enjoy cheesecake with a twist and is sure to become a crowd-pleaser in any setting.
Whether you’re looking for a unique dessert to serve at your next gathering or simply want a quick and indulgent treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, these egg rolls deliver on all fronts. Easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and irresistibly delicious, Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls are a must-try recipe that brings excitement to your dessert repertoire.
Give them a try and discover how this fusion dessert can brighten up any occasion with its perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and crispy delight.