What happens when cheesecake meets egg roll wrapper – pure magic. Quick weeknight dessert solution featuring a creamy cheesecake filling wrapped in a crispy homemade pastry and served with fresh raspberries. Save this idea

two pictures of cheesecake egg rolls on a plate with raspberries

Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the crispy, golden delight of egg rolls, all beautifully presented with a burst of fresh raspberries. This unique dessert is not only a feast for the eyes but also a masterpiece of flavors and textures that will leave you and your guests in awe. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a few everyday ingredients and some basic kitchen tools. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this cheesecake egg roll recipe is perfect for anyone looking to impress with minimal fuss.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of cheesecake filling, wrapped in egg roll wrappers and served with raspberries, offers a delightful balance of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors, all made with easily accessible ingredients.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive presentation, this dessert is relatively simple to prepare. The cheesecake filling can be made in advance, and assembling the egg rolls is a straightforward process.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The contrast between the crispy, golden egg rolls and the soft, creamy cheesecake, topped with the vibrant freshness of raspberries, makes for a visually stunning dessert that belies its ease of preparation.

Key Ingredients

To make these cheesecake egg rolls, you’ll need a few key ingredients. For the cheesecake filling, you’ll require cream cheese, granulated sugar, large eggs, and vanilla extract. The egg roll wrappers are the base for the rolls, and you’ll also need some butter or cooking spray for frying. Fresh raspberries add a pop of color and flavor to the dish. For practical substitutions, you can use different types of cheese or flavorings in the cheesecake mixture, and consider using frozen raspberries if fresh ones are not in season.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing the cheesecake filling. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth, then gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
2. Step 2: Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the cheesecake filling in the center of the wrapper. Brush the edges with a little water, then fold the bottom up over the filling, fold in the sides, and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
3. Step 3: Heat about 1-2 inches of butter or cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the butter has melted or the oil is hot, add a few of the egg rolls (do not overcrowd) and fry until they’re golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. Step 4: Serve the cheesecake egg rolls warm, topped with fresh raspberries. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overfill the egg rolls, as this can cause them to burst open during frying. Also, don’t overcrowd the skillet, as this can lower the oil temperature, leading to greasy or undercooked egg rolls.

Heat Control

For frying the egg rolls, it’s crucial to maintain the right temperature. Ideally, you want the oil to be between 325°F and 375°F. If the oil is too hot, the egg rolls will burn on the outside before they’re fully cooked on the inside. Conversely, if the oil is not hot enough, the egg rolls will absorb too much oil and be greasy. The frying process should take about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the egg rolls are golden brown and crispy.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right crunch on the egg rolls is key to this dessert’s appeal. To ensure they come out crispy, make sure the oil is at the right temperature, and don’t overcook them. immediately after frying, place the egg rolls on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil, which will help maintain their crunchiness.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

Storage Tips

• The cheesecake filling can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Assembled but unfried egg rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Fried egg rolls are best served immediately but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours. For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled but unfried egg rolls, then fry them frozen.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These cheesecake egg rolls make for a unique and thoughtful gift, especially when beautifully packaged. Consider placing a few egg rolls in a decorative tin or box, surrounded by fresh raspberries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. You could also include a small jar of raspberry sauce or a packet of whipped cream for an extra-special touch. Finish the gift with a ribbon or gift tag, and you have a present that’s as delicious as it is visually appealing.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the cheesecake filling can give the dessert a unique twist. For a more pronounced flavor, you could also soak the raspberries in a liquor of your choice before serving.
• Creative toppings: While raspberries are a classic choice, you could also top your cheesecake egg rolls with other fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, or even caramelized bananas. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel can also add an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: For a lighter version, you could use neufchâtel cheese instead of cream cheese, or substitute some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup. Experimenting with different types of egg roll wrappers, such as whole wheat or flavored wrappers, can also change up the flavor and texture of the dessert.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your cheesecake egg rolls turn out too greasy, it may be because the oil wasn’t hot enough. On the other hand, if they’re too dry, it could be because they were overcooked. Adjusting the frying time and temperature can help achieve the perfect texture.
• Ingredient replacements: If you find that you’re out of a particular ingredient, don’t be afraid to get creative with substitutions. For example, you could use other types of cheese or flavorings in the cheesecake mixture, or try different fruits for topping.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the egg rolls while they’re frying, as they can quickly go from perfectly cooked to burnt. If they’re undercooked, they may not be crispy enough; if they’re overcooked, they may be too dark or even burnt.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unfried egg rolls for up to 2 months. Simply place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container and fry them frozen when you’re ready.
• Is it gluten-free? The cheesecake filling is naturally gluten-free, but the egg roll wrappers may contain gluten. Look for gluten-free egg roll wrappers to make this dessert accessible to those with gluten intolerance.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredients and follow the same instructions. Keep in mind that you may need to fry the egg rolls in batches to prevent overcrowding the skillet.

Conclusion

Making cheesecake egg rolls is a fun and creative way to enjoy dessert, offering a unique blend of textures and flavors that’s sure to impress. With its ease of preparation and the flexibility to customize with different ingredients and toppings, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to try something new and exciting. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and crispy egg rolls, beautifully presented with fresh raspberries.