Imagine biting into a crispy, golden pastry only to be met with a creamy cheesecake center and bursts of sweet cherry filling. These Crispy Cherry Cheesecake Delights bring together all the best parts of classic cheesecake but in a handheld, crunchy package that’s impossible to resist!
The inspiration for this recipe came from my love for cherry cheesecake and deep-fried desserts. I wanted to create something fun, portable, and downright indulgent. The contrast of textures—the crunchy exterior and smooth, creamy interior—makes these little pockets of joy the perfect dessert for any occasion.
What makes these delights truly special is their versatility. Whether you fry them up for a quick dessert, bake them for a lighter version, or even air-fry them, they always turn out delicious. Serve them warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate, and you’ve got a treat that’s bound to disappear fast.
Every time I make these, they vanish within minutes. So, let’s get started on making a batch of pure bliss!
Recipe Resume: Todd Wilbur Style
- These Crispy Cherry Cheesecake Delights are bite-sized treats featuring a rich, tangy cheesecake filling and sweet cherry preserves inside a crispy shell.
- Perfectly golden and crunchy on the outside, with a creamy and fruity center.
- Great for parties, special occasions, or when you need a quick and delicious dessert fix.
- Serve with powdered sugar, chocolate drizzle, or even a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence.
Why These Crispy Cherry Cheesecake Delights?
- Perfectly Crispy: A golden, crunchy shell encases a luscious cheesecake filling.
- Rich & Creamy: A smooth cheesecake center balances the crispiness.
- Quick & Easy: Minimal prep time for a gourmet dessert.
- Portable & Fun: Perfect for parties gatherings, or a midnight snack.
What You Need for Crispy Cherry Cheesecake Delights
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional, enhances cherry flavor)
For the Assembly
- 1/2 cup cherry preserves or pie filling
- 12 small wonton wrappers (or egg roll wrappers for larger ones)
- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For Topping (Optional but Recommended!)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Melted chocolate, for drizzling
- Whipped cream, for serving
How to Make Crispy Cherry Cheesecake Delights
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Assemble the Delights:
- Lay out the wonton wrappers on a clean surface.
- Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cheesecake filling onto the center of each wrapper.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of cherry preserves on top of the cheesecake mixture.
- Seal the Edges:
- Brush the edges of the wonton wrapper with the beaten egg.
- Fold the wrapper into a triangle (or fold the sides in like an envelope for a different shape).
- Press firmly to seal the edges, ensuring no filling leaks out.
- Fry to Crispy Perfection:
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the delights in batches, about 30-45 seconds per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Bake or Air-Fry Option (Healthier Alternative):
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
- Air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with melted chocolate, or serve with whipped cream.
- Best enjoyed warm and crispy!
Tips for Crispy Cherry Cheesecake Delights
- Seal the Edges Well: Prevent filling leaks by firmly pressing and sealing the wrappers.
- Work in Small Batches: Avoid overcrowding the frying pan for even crispiness.
- Customize the Filling: Try different fruit preserves like strawberry, blueberry, or raspberry!
Substitutions and Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spring roll wrappers.
- Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese for dairy-free cream cheese.
- Different Fillings: Try Nutella, peanut butter, or caramel inside!
Make a Healthier Version
- Bake Instead of Fry: Bake at 375°F for a lighter option.
- Use Reduced-Fat Cream Cheese: Keeps it creamy but cuts down on fat.
- Swap the Sugar: Use a natural sweetener like monk fruit or honey.
Closing: Todd Wilbur Style
And there you have it—Crispy Cherry Cheesecake Delights that are crunchy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and bursting with sweet cherry goodness. Whether you fry them up for a decadent treat or bake them for a lighter version, these little pockets of joy are guaranteed to impress. Serve them warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate, and watch them disappear! Don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes for your next sweet fix. Happy cooking
Frequently Asked Questions for Crispy Cherry Cheesecake Delights
- Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and freeze them before frying. Cook directly from frozen—no need to thaw! - Can I use a different filling?
Absolutely! Try strawberry, Nutella, or even lemon curd for a twist. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for crispiness. - Can I use phyllo dough instead?
Yes, but brush with butter before baking for a golden, crispy texture. - What’s the best way to reheat them?
Air-fry at 350°F for 3–4 minutes or bake at 375°F for 5 minutes. - Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air-fry at 375°F for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway. - What’s the best dipping sauce?
Melted chocolate, caramel sauce, or a whipped cream dip work wonderfully. - Can I use canned pie filling?
Yes, just ensure you don’t overfill to prevent leaks. - Are these similar to fried cheesecake bites?
Yes! They have the same crispy-creamy contrast, but with a cherry twist. - Can I make a large batch?
Yes! These freeze beautifully, so you can make extras for later. - How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Seal the edges well and avoid overstuffing. - Can I use a sugar-free filling?
Yes! Use sugar-free cherry preserves for a lower-sugar option.