If you’re looking for the ultimate sweet treat that’s crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and a total showstopper at any gathering, Fried Cheesecake Roll-Ups are about to become your new obsession. Think golden, cinnamon-sugar-dusted bites filled with lusciously smooth cheesecake, all bundled up in soft bread and fried to perfection. Whether you’re indulging on a cozy night in or serving dessert at a party, these irresistible roll-ups add a fun, magical twist to classic cheesecake flavors—no fork required!

Fried Cheesecake Roll-Ups Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dreamy dessert comes together with a few basic staples, yet every ingredient plays a crucial role in building the signature taste and texture of Fried Cheesecake Roll-Ups. Let’s take a closer look at how these everyday items work their magic.

White sandwich bread: Flattened bread makes the perfect tender-yet-crispy wrap for our creamy filling—be sure to remove the crusts for seamless rolling and a melt-in-your-mouth bite.
Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The creamy foundation—make sure it’s room temperature so it blends smoothly with the sugar and vanilla.
Powdered sugar (¼ cup): This sweetens the cream cheese mixture and keeps it impossibly silky.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds warmth and classic cheesecake flavor—don’t skip it!
Granulated sugar (½ cup): Mixed with cinnamon, this coats the hot roll-ups for a crunchy finish.
Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): Gives every roll a dazzling pop of warm spice and color.
Unsalted butter (2 tbsp, melted): Brushing the bread helps achieve a golden exterior, especially if you opt to bake instead of fry.
Oil for frying: Choose a neutral oil like vegetable or canola to keep the flavors pure and the roll-ups crisp.
Optional toppings: whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or fresh berries: These take your presentation and taste to the next level—let your imagination run wild!

How to Make Fried Cheesecake Roll-Ups

Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat them together until the mixture is super smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed! This rich, tangy filling is what sets Fried Cheesecake Roll-Ups apart, so take a moment to taste and adjust for your perfect level of sweetness or vanilla punch.

Step 2: Prepare and Flatten the Bread

Lay out your slices of white bread, cut off the crusts, and grab a rolling pin. Gently roll each slice until it’s thin and pliable. This step ensures the bread will roll effortlessly around the filling and crisp up beautifully during frying. Don’t skip it—flattened bread is your secret weapon for bakery-level roll-ups!

Step 3: Fill and Roll

Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture along one edge of every bread slice. Carefully roll each one into a tight little log, making sure to seal the edge with a gentle press. If you want to get creative, you can add a thin strawberry or banana slice inside each before rolling for a fruitier surprise.

Step 4: Mix Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a shallow bowl or plate, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined. This blend is responsible for the classic churro-like finish on every Fried Cheesecake Roll-Up, so don’t skimp on the cinnamon.

Step 5: Fry the Roll-Ups

Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (a little sizzle when you drop in a bread bit tells you it’s ready). Working in batches, fry the roll-ups seam-side down for 1 to 2 minutes per side, flipping until they’re crispy and golden all over. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan so you get that perfect crunch!

Step 6: Cinnamon Sugar Finish

As soon as your roll-ups come out of the oil, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat each one generously. The cinnamon sugar will cling to the warm, buttery surface, adding a magical sparkle and crunch that’s absolutely irresistible.

Step 7: Serve Hot with Toppings

Fried Cheesecake Roll-Ups are best enjoyed while still warm, when the centers are ultra-creamy and the outsides are shatteringly crisp. Set out bowls of whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and fresh berries and let everyone garnish their own. Dessert bliss is just one bite away!

How to Serve Fried Cheesecake Roll-Ups

Garnishes

For a stunning finishing touch, dust your roll-ups with a little extra powdered sugar, drizzle them with glossy chocolate sauce, or top them with a dollop of whipped cream. A handful of vibrant berries not only brings a pop of color but also adds a burst of fresh, tangy flavor that’s lovely with the rich filling.

Side Dishes

Pair your Fried Cheesecake Roll-Ups with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of macerated berries for something cool and fruity. If you’re serving these for brunch, a fruit salad or a cup of strong coffee balances out the sweetness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, arrange the roll-ups in a spiral on a large platter or skewer them like dessert kebabs. You can even serve individual roll-ups in cupcake wrappers for an adorable, mess-free treat that’s perfect for dipping into sauces or passing around at gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extras (lucky you!), let the roll-ups cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just know they’ll lose a bit of their trademark crispiness the longer they sit, but the flavor will still be fantastic.

Freezing

Fried Cheesecake Roll-Ups actually freeze quite well! Place cooled roll-ups on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. This method keeps them from sticking together and makes it easy to grab just a few whenever you crave a sweet treat.

Reheating

To bring back the crispy texture, reheat roll-ups in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F for about 8–10 minutes or until heated through. Skip the microwave if you want to preserve that golden crunch! Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture, just as if they were fresh from the fryer.

FAQs

Can I bake Fried Cheesecake Roll-Ups instead of frying?

Absolutely! Just brush your prepared roll-ups with melted butter, roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture, and bake on a parchment-lined tray at 375°F for 12–15 minutes until golden. The baked version isn’t quite as crispy, but it’s a little lighter and still totally delicious.

What’s the best way to get the bread really flat and flexible?

A rolling pin works wonders for flattening sandwich bread. Just press gently but firmly until each slice feels thin and stretchy—it should almost look like pasta sheets. If you don’t have a rolling pin, try using a clean bottle or even a sturdy glass.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prep the roll-ups (through the assembly step) ahead and keep them in the fridge for up to a day before frying or baking. Wait to roll them in the cinnamon sugar until after they’ve been cooked so the coating stays crisp and doesn’t dissolve.

What are some filling variations I can try?

The sky’s the limit! Mix some lemon zest or cocoa powder into the cream cheese, tuck a few mini chocolate chips inside, or layer in sliced strawberries or bananas before rolling—each tweak puts a new spin on Fried Cheesecake Roll-Ups.

Can I use whole wheat or another bread type?

Yes, though white bread yields the softest, most tender results. Whole wheat or other sandwich breads will work, but be sure they’re sliced thin and aren’t too hearty, or they might crack when rolling. Trim them well and roll them out extra-thin for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try Fried Cheesecake Roll-Ups—each bite is a crunchy, creamy delight that’ll have you and your friends reaching for just one more. With endless ways to customize and irresistible flavor in every layer, this easy recipe is sure to become your new go-to treat. Don’t be surprised if you end up making double batches—these golden beauties disappear fast!