Description
Fried Cheesecake Roll-Ups are a decadent and easy-to-make dessert featuring creamy sweetened cream cheese wrapped in thin flattened bread, fried until golden and crispy, then coated in cinnamon sugar. Perfect for a quick indulgent treat, these roll-ups combine the richness of cheesecake with a satisfying crunchy exterior, and can be served with toppings like whipped cream or fresh berries for extra flair.
Ingredients
Roll-Ups
- 8 slices white sandwich bread (crusts removed)
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
For Frying and Serving
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or fresh berries
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy. This mixture will provide the rich, sweet cheesecake flavor inside the roll-ups.
- Flatten the Bread: Using a rolling pin, flatten each slice of bread until thin. This makes it easier to roll the bread tightly around the filling and ensures an even crisp when fried.
- Assemble the Roll-Ups: Spread 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture onto each flattened slice of bread. Then, roll up each slice tightly, pressing the seam to seal so the filling does not leak out during frying.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a shallow bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon thoroughly. This will be used to coat the warm roll-ups after frying for a sweet, spiced crust.
- Heat Oil for Frying: Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a skillet and heat over medium heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). Proper oil temperature is crucial for achieving a golden, crispy exterior without absorbing excess oil.
- Fry the Roll-Ups: Carefully place the roll-ups seam-side down in the hot oil. Fry each side for 1 to 2 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn carefully, ensuring even cooking without bursting the seams.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried roll-ups and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil, keeping them crispy and not greasy.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: While still warm, roll each fried roll-up in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated, giving the dessert its signature sweet and spicy crust.
- Serve: Serve the roll-ups warm, optionally topped with whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or fresh berries for added flavor and presentation appeal.
Notes
- These are best enjoyed fresh for optimal crispness and flavor.
- You can prepare the cream cheese filling and flatten the bread slices ahead of time to streamline assembly later.
- For a fruity variation, add a spoonful of fruit preserves inside before rolling up.
