If you have a sweet tooth and love that perfect combination of creamy and crispy, you are going to adore this Deep Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe. Imagine luscious bites of smooth cheesecake, encased in a golden, crunchy batter, then paired with vibrant, sweet strawberries that add a fresh pop of flavor. It’s a dessert experience that feels indulgent yet surprisingly simple to whip up, perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself to something special. Once you try this delightful recipe, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your dessert lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping it simple is the secret here. Each ingredient in this Deep Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe plays a crucial role, from creating a fluffy cheesecake filling to crafting a crispy, golden exterior and bright, juicy strawberries to balance the richness.
- Cream cheese, 8 oz, softened: The star of the filling, delivering that rich, creamy cheesecake flavor.
- Powdered sugar, 1/4 cup: Sweetens the cream cheese filling with a smooth finish.
- Vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons (divided): Adds a warm, aromatic note to both filling and batter.
- Heavy cream, 1/2 cup: Whipped into the cream cheese for a light, fluffy texture.
- All-purpose flour, 1 cup: Forms the base of the crispy batter coating.
- Granulated sugar, 1/4 cup and 2 tablespoons: Provides subtle sweetness in the batter plus sweetness to macerate the strawberries.
- Baking powder, 1 teaspoon: Ensures the batter puffs up nicely when fried.
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- Egg, 1: Binds the batter ingredients together for that perfect consistency.
- Milk, 1 cup: Makes the batter smooth and easy to coat the cheesecake bites.
- Fresh strawberries, 1 cup: Bright, juicy, and naturally sweet for the perfect topping.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting): A final dusting for that beautiful, inviting look.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): The key to achieving that crisp, golden crust on the cheesecake bites.
How to Make Deep Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Start by beating the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until it’s smooth and creamy. This step is where the rich, tangy cheesecake flavor develops. Then, gently fold in the heavy cream, beating just until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—this fluffy texture will make the filling irresistible.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a separate bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients—flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then, in another small bowl, combine the egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ones until you have a smooth batter that will perfectly coat the cheesecake bites and fry up crisp.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Heat your vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to a steady 350°F (175°C). Maintaining the oil temperature is crucial for achieving a crunchy, golden crust without soaking up excess oil.
Step 4: Coat the Cheesecake Bites
Using a small spoon, scoop bite-sized portions of the cheesecake filling, then dip each into the batter, making sure they are thoroughly coated. This batter will create the perfect protective shell that crisps up beautifully during frying.
Step 5: Fry to Perfection
Carefully drop the coated cheesecake bites into the hot oil. Fry them in batches for about 2 to 3 minutes, until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 6: Prepare the Strawberries
While the cheesecake bites are frying, toss the fresh sliced strawberries with a couple tablespoons of granulated sugar. Let them macerate for 10 to 15 minutes. This simple step intensifies their sweetness and releases their natural juice, creating a luscious topping.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the warm, crispy cheesecake bites, spoon the macerated strawberries over them, and finish with a delightful dusting of powdered sugar. This is where your Deep Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe truly comes alive with that perfect contrast of textures and flavors.
How to Serve Deep Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
The crowning touch to this recipe is the contrast between the crunchy exterior and the creamy interior. Fresh mint leaves, a drizzle of chocolate or strawberry sauce, or an extra sprinkle of powdered sugar can make your presentation pop and add another layer of flavor.
Side Dishes
Though this dessert stands on its own, pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can take the indulgence factor way up. For a lighter option, a simple green salad with citrus vinaigrette refreshes the palate between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these cheesecake bites on skewers with alternating strawberries for a fun, shareable treat. Or place them in small dessert cups layered with strawberry compote and whipped cream, turning the dish into an elegant parfait-inspired dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Deep Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days, but be aware that the crispy coating may soften over time.
Freezing
To freeze, place the cooled cheesecake bites on a parchment-lined tray to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to one month, perfect for making ahead for a party or special occasion.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated bites in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps revive the crispy exterior while warming the cheesecake filling without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Fresh strawberries are best since they retain firmness and flavor when macerated. However, if frozen is what you have, thaw and drain them well to avoid extra moisture diluting the texture.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil works perfectly because it has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, ideal for deep frying until golden and crispy.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup for best results. This tweak lets you enjoy the recipe without sacrificing texture.
How do I know when the oil is the right temperature?
The ideal frying temperature is 350°F (175°C). You can check this with a kitchen thermometer or test by dropping a small bit of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface quickly without burning.
Can I make the cheesecake filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the cheesecake filling a few hours ahead and keep it chilled. Just give it a quick stir before scooping so it’s nice and smooth when you’re ready to coat and fry.
Final Thoughts
This Deep Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe is a delightful treat that combines creamy, fruity, and crunchy into every single bite—pure happiness on a plate! It’s wonderfully fun to make and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to try it. So go ahead, whip up a batch and enjoy the magic of this insanely delicious dessert with your favorite people.
