Irresistible Deep-Fried Cheesecake Chimichangas: Your Ultimate Sweet Treat Recipe
Imagine the rich, creamy decadence of cheesecake perfectly encased in a golden, crispy tortilla shell, dusted with a sweet cinnamon sugar coating! That’s precisely the magic of **Deep-Fried Cheesecake Chimichangas**. These delightful dessert chimichangas, often referred to as Xangos, are a quick and easy treat that brings together the best of Mexican-inspired crunch with classic American creaminess. They are truly best served warm, perhaps with a generous helping of fresh strawberries, a drizzle of warm caramel, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
What Are Deep-Fried Cheesecake Chimichangas (Xangos)?
Cheesecake Chimichangas are a beloved Mexican-style crunchy tortilla dessert that has captured hearts with its unique combination of textures and flavors. These hand-sized sweets are often compared to churros, but with an exciting twist: they’re generously stuffed with a luscious, creamy cheesecake filling! The tortillas are expertly deep-fried to achieve a beautifully crisp, golden-brown pastry, creating an incredibly satisfying crunch that gives way to the warm, gooey center. A final flourish of cinnamon sugar coating adds an extra layer of irresistible sweetness and texture, elevating this dessert to pure perfection.
This dessert isn’t just about indulgence; it’s about a symphony of sensations. The moment these chimichangas hit the hot oil, a transformation occurs. The humble flour tortilla crisps up, becoming flaky and golden, while the cheesecake filling inside warms through, turning incredibly soft and creamy. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the smooth, rich interior is what makes these so captivating. They’re a fantastic alternative to traditional fried desserts, offering a familiar warmth with an unexpected, delightful filling.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Fried Cheesecake Recipe
There are countless reasons why these **fried cheesecake treats** will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:
- Simplicity: Despite their impressive appearance, Deep-Fried Cheesecake Chimichangas are surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and straightforward steps. Perfect for home cooks of all skill levels!
- Speed: From prep to plate, this dessert comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for impromptu cravings or last-minute entertaining.
- Versatility: While delicious on their own, these chimichangas are a blank canvas for customization. Pair them with fresh fruits, rich sauces, or even a scoop of ice cream to create your signature dessert experience.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Their unique combination of crunchy, creamy, and sweet makes them an instant hit at any gathering, from casual family dinners to festive parties.
- Unique Flavor Profile: They offer the comforting familiarity of cheesecake and the fun of a deep-fried treat, all rolled into one delightful package.
Perfect Pairings & Serving Suggestions
While delicious on their own, these cheesecake chimichangas truly shine when paired with complementary flavors and textures. You can easily add any fresh fruit into the filling before rolling, or simply serve them on the side for dipping. Our homemade strawberry jam is a fantastic option, offering a burst of fruity sweetness that cuts through the richness of the cheesecake.
For an extra special treat, serve your warm chimichangas with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The cold, melting ice cream against the warm, crispy chimichanga creates an irresistible hot-and-cold sensation. A drizzle of warm caramel sauce or rich chocolate syrup will take this dessert from great to absolutely unforgettable. Consider fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries, sliced bananas, or even a dollop of whipped cream for added elegance.
How to Make Deep-Fried Cheesecake (Cheesecake Chimichangas): The Recipe
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Deep-Fried Cheesecake Chimichangas
Ingredients
Cheesecake Chimichangas:
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14 small 6″ flour tortillas
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16 oz cream cheese softened
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1/4 cup sugar
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract
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1 tbsp sour cream
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1 cup canola oil (for frying)
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Strawberry jam or Fresh Strawberries for serving
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
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1/2 cup sugar
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1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
How to Make Deep-Fried Cheesecake Chimichangas:
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Heat oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until creamy. Then add 1/4 cup of sugar, vanilla extract, and sour cream and mix until well combined. -
Place 2 heaping tablespoons of filling into the bottom half of each tortilla and roll up, tucking in the sides. -
Secure each roll-up with a toothpick and deep-fry until golden brown on each side (2-4 minutes). -
Combine the cinnamon sugar coating and immediately dip hot chimichangas into the sugar mixture. Serve with fresh strawberries or strawberry jam.
Nutrition per serving
Deep-Fried Cheesecake Chimichangas: Your Questions Answered
What exactly are Cheesecake Chimichangas or Xangos?
Cheesecake Chimichangas, also known as Xangos, are a creative and delicious Mexican-inspired dessert. They feature flour tortillas generously filled with a simple yet decadent cream cheese batter. These filled tortillas are then carefully rolled up and deep-fried until they reach a state of beautiful crispiness, transforming into a warm, crunchy pastry. Once fried, they are coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture. The result is a dessert that tastes like a warm, crispy cheesecake, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. You can enhance the experience by adding fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas directly to the batter, or serve them on the side as a vibrant dipping sauce.
How do I ensure the cinnamon sugar coating adheres perfectly to my Chimichangas?
The secret to a perfectly coated chimichanga is timing! To get the cinnamon sugar coating to stick exceptionally well, you must dip the hot chimichangas into the sugar mixture immediately after removing them from the oil. The residual heat and slight oiliness will act as an adhesive. For the best and most even coating, we recommend placing the hot chimichangas directly into a zip-loc bag with the cinnamon sugar mixture, then shaking vigorously until they are thoroughly coated. This method ensures every inch is covered in that delicious sweet spice.
Can I prepare the cheesecake filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cheesecake filling can be prepared up to 2-3 days in advance. Simply mix all the filling ingredients as per the recipe, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to make the chimichangas, let the filling sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to soften slightly, making it easier to spread onto the tortillas.
What type of oil is best for deep-frying these chimichangas?
For deep-frying, it’s best to use an oil with a high smoke point and neutral flavor. Canola oil, vegetable oil, or peanut oil are excellent choices. These oils will ensure your chimichangas fry up golden and crispy without imparting any unwanted flavors. Ensure you have enough oil so the chimichangas are fully submerged for even cooking.
Expert Tips for Perfect Deep-Fried Cheesecake Chimichangas
- Softening Cream Cheese in a Flash: This is my favorite hack! To soften cream cheese in seconds, simply cut an 8 oz block into four pieces and microwave it unwrapped for about 30 seconds. This trick works every single time, ensuring a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Achieving a Thick Cinnamon Sugar Coating: For an extra-indulgent and beautifully thick cinnamon sugar coating, double coat your chimichangas! After the first dip in the sugar mixture, you can lightly re-dip them in the hot oil for just a second or two (this reactivates the stickiness), then immediately toss them in the sugar mixture again. This creates a wonderfully dense and flavorful crust.
- Best Reheating Method: Leftover chimichangas are still delicious! For optimal crispiness and warmth, reheat them in a toaster oven or a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 6-7 minutes. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make them soggy.
- Tortilla Size Matters: While the recipe calls for small 6″ flour tortillas, you can easily substitute seven 8″ flour tortillas if those are what you have on hand. Just adjust the amount of filling per tortilla accordingly and fold them a bit more securely.
- Sealing is Key: To prevent the creamy filling from leaking out during frying, make sure to roll your tortillas tightly and tuck in the sides properly. You can also lightly moisten the edge of the tortilla with water before sealing to help it stick.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor your oil temperature. Aim for around 350-375°F (175-190°C). If the oil is too cold, the chimichangas will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, they will brown too quickly on the outside before the filling is perfectly warmed and creamy inside.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the chimichangas in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature, leading to less crispy results. Give each chimichanga enough space to fry evenly.
Explore More Delicious Deep-Fried Recipes!
If you’ve enjoyed the delightful crunch and rich flavors of these Deep-Fried Cheesecake Chimichangas, you might be ready to explore more delicious deep-fried creations. Deep frying offers a unique way to transform simple ingredients into indulgent treats. Here are some other fantastic recipes to try and expand your culinary repertoire:
- Easy French Fries: Master the art of perfectly crispy, golden fries at home – a classic side dish everyone loves.
- Chinese Chicken Fingers: Learn to make these beloved takeout-style chicken fingers with a wonderfully crunchy coating.
- Easy Orange Chicken: Recreate this popular sweet and savory dish, featuring tender fried chicken coated in a vibrant orange sauce.