Description
Indulge in these decadent Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches featuring a creamy cheesecake filling and sweetened strawberries, all encased in golden, crispy fried bread. Perfect as a warm dessert or special treat, these sandwiches combine rich cream cheese with fresh fruit and a cinnamon-sugar coating for an irresistible flavor and texture contrast.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream (or milk)
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for flavor)
Sandwiches
- 8 slices of white or brioche bread (crusts removed, if desired)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened (for spreading on bread)
For Frying and Coating
- 2 cups vegetable oil (or oil for frying)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for coating)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Mix with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy. If desired, add cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Set the Filling Aside: Once mixed, set the cheesecake filling aside to use in assembling the sandwiches.
- Prepare the Strawberry Filling: In a small bowl, combine the diced strawberries with granulated sugar. Stir well and set aside for about 10 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juice, enhancing their sweetness.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Lay out 4 slices of bread. Spread a generous amount of the cheesecake filling onto each slice. Top each with a spoonful of the sugared strawberries, then place the remaining 4 slices of bread on top to form sandwiches.
- Butter the Sandwiches: Lightly butter the outside of each sandwich, ensuring the butter is spread evenly to achieve a golden, crispy exterior during frying.
- Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). Test by dropping a small piece of bread; it should sizzle immediately.
- Fry the Sandwiches: Carefully place the sandwiches in the hot oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Gently press down on the sandwiches with a spatula to ensure even frying.
- Prepare the Coating: While frying, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl to create the cinnamon sugar coating.
- Coat the Sandwiches: Once fried, remove the sandwiches from oil and immediately roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture for a sweet, flavorful crust.
- Serve: Slice the fried strawberry cheesecake sandwiches into halves or quarters and serve warm. Optionally, top with extra fresh strawberries or whipped cream for an even more indulgent experience.
Notes
- For best results, use thick slices of bread like brioche or white sandwich bread for a sturdier sandwich.
- Removing crusts is optional but provides a cleaner presentation and easier frying.
- You can substitute heavy cream with milk if preferred.
- Use a cooking thermometer to accurately gauge the oil temperature for perfect frying.
- If you want a less sweet option, reduce the amount of sugar in the strawberry filling or coating.
- Serve immediately for the crispest texture, as the sandwich may become soggy if left for too long.