What if dessert and dinner merged into one sweet treat? Introducing cheesecake egg rolls, made with a flaky homemade crust and creamy cheesecake filling, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or family favorite dessert, save this idea for a delicious twist on traditional sweets.

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 delight of an egg roll, all perfectly balanced and beautifully presented with fresh raspberries. This unique dessert is not only a feast for the eyes but also a masterclass in textures and flavors. The best part? It’s made using everyday ingredients and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks looking to impress their guests. The combination of the warm, golden egg rolls filled with a cool, creamy cheesecake mixture and the tartness of the raspberries will leave everyone wanting more.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The cheesecake filling provides a rich and creamy base, while the egg roll wrapper adds a satisfying crunch. The raspberries contribute a burst of freshness and acidity, balancing out the sweetness of the cheesecake.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive presentation, this dessert is surprisingly easy to make. The cheesecake filling can be prepared ahead of time, and the egg roll wrappers are readily available in most supermarkets.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The combination of the crispy egg roll, creamy cheesecake, and fresh raspberries creates a visually stunning dessert that is sure to impress any dinner guest, all without requiring extensive culinary skills.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this dessert include cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract for the cheesecake filling, and egg roll wrappers. For the cheesecake filling, you will need 12 ounces of cream cheese softened, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. The egg roll wrappers can usually be found in the frozen food section or international aisle of your local grocery store. Fresh raspberries are used for garnish and added flavor. Practical substitutions could include using different types of cheese for the filling or experimenting with various fruits for topping.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing the cheesecake filling. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth. Add the granulated sugar and beat until well combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Finally, add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
2. Step 2: Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the cheesecake mixture in the center of the wrapper. Brush the edges with a small amount of water to help seal the roll.
3. Step 3: Fold the bottom half of the egg roll wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
4. Step 4: Heat about 2-3 inches of oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F. Fry the egg rolls until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels. Serve warm with fresh raspberries.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overfill the egg rolls, as this can cause them to burst open during frying. Also, do not overcrowd the frying pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy or undercooked egg rolls.

Heat Control

For frying the egg rolls, it’s crucial to maintain the oil at the right temperature. Ideally, the oil should be between 350°F and 375°F. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is fully cooked. If it’s too cool, the egg rolls will absorb too much oil and be greasy. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature, and adjust the heat as necessary.

Crunch Factor

The crunch of the egg roll wrapper is a key component of this dessert. To achieve the perfect crunch, make sure the oil is at the correct temperature, and do not overcook the egg rolls. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, with a soft and creamy cheesecake filling on the inside.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To prevent the egg rolls from sticking together, dust them lightly with cornstarch after frying. This step also helps in absorbing any excess oil, making the egg rolls crisper.

Storage Tips

• For storing leftover cheesecake egg rolls, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and warm.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting these unique desserts, they can be beautifully packaged in decorative boxes or bags. Place a few egg rolls in a paper cone or a small gift box, and tie with a ribbon. Adding a few fresh raspberries on top and a sprinkle of powdered sugar can make the gift even more appealing.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheesecake filling for a warm, spicy flavor.
• Creative toppings: Besides raspberries, other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even caramel sauce can be used as toppings to change up the flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: For a lighter version, you could use Neapolitan cream cheese or substitute some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the egg rolls become too greasy, it might be due to the oil not being hot enough. If they are not crispy, the oil might be too hot, causing them to cook too quickly on the outside.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find egg roll wrappers, you might consider using spring roll wrappers as a substitute, though the texture might be slightly different.
• Over/undercooking signs: Overcooked egg rolls will be dark brown and possibly burnt, while undercooked ones might be pale and soft. Adjust the frying time based on the size of your egg rolls and the temperature of the oil.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake egg rolls after they have been fried. Simply place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• 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 gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe if you’re planning to serve a larger crowd. Just be sure to fry the egg rolls in batches to avoid overcrowding the frying pan.

Conclusion

This unique dessert combines the best of both worlds—crunchy, sweet, and creamy all in one dish. With its ease of preparation and impressive presentation, it’s perfect for special occasions or as a surprise treat for your loved ones. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and toppings to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. The combination of cheesecake and egg roll is a game-changer in the world of desserts, offering a delightful twist on traditional sweets.