Fried Strawberry Cheesecake

Name: Fried Strawberry Cheesecake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon water; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 2 cups panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; Pinch of salt; Vegetable oil, for frying (about 3-4 cups); 1 package (14.3 ounces) graham crackers, broken into squares; Powdered sugar, for dusting; Whipped cream; Fresh strawberries, sliced; Chocolate syrup

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: July 13, 2025

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Introduction to Fried Strawberry Cheesecake

Have you ever craved a dessert so delicious that you can almost taste it just thinking about it? Well, let me introduce you to Fried Strawberry Cheesecake—a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe marries the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the sweet-tartness of strawberries, all wrapped in a crispy coating. Whether you’re looking for a quick solution after a hectic day or a showstopper to impress friends and family, this dessert checks all the boxes. Trust me, it’s a sweet escape that you and your loved ones will adore!

Why You’ll Love This Fried Strawberry Cheesecake

This Fried Strawberry Cheesecake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience! It’s easy to make, even on the busiest days. Plus, the taste is simply out of this world. The combination of warm, crispy coating with creamy cheesecake and juicy strawberries offers a flavor explosion with every bite. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this dessert disappears when you serve it at gatherings. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients for Fried Strawberry Cheesecake

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this mouthwatering Fried Strawberry Cheesecake. Each ingredient plays a unique role, contributing to the overall magical flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cream Cheese: This is the star of the show—smooth and creamy—it forms the base of your cheesecake filling. Always opt for softened cream cheese for easy mixing.
Granulated Sugar: A sweet addition that balances the tartness of strawberries and enriches the creamy filling. It’s essential for that delicious cheesecake flavor.
Egg: This little wonder acts as a binder, helping the filling hold together beautifully. Just one large egg is all you need!
Vanilla Extract: A dash of this fragrant extract elevates the flavors, bringing warmth and depth to your cheesecake bite.
Pinch of Salt: Just a pinch enhances and balances the sweetness, ensuring the flavors shine through.
Fresh Strawberries: The juicy, sweet-tart heroes of this story! Make sure to choose ripe strawberries for the best flavor. They add a delightful freshness to each bite.
Lemon Juice: A little acidity from the lemon brightens the strawberry sauce, bringing out the fruit’s natural sweetness.
Water: Used to help create the perfect strawberry sauce texture.
All-Purpose Flour: This is for dredging—the first step to that crispy, crunchy coating.
Beaten Eggs: A second egg for dipping; this gives the panko breadcrumbs something to cling to, making those bites irresistibly crunchy!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These crisp-up beautifully and give our cheesecake bites that delightful crunch. You can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko offers a lighter texture.
Ground Cinnamon and Nutmeg: A sprinkle of these spices adds warmth and complexity, making each bite taste like a cozy dessert should.
Vegetable Oil: Essential for frying, look for an oil that can handle high heat without smoking. Think canola or peanut oil.
Graham Crackers: These provide the structure for your bites, acting as the sandwich that holds in all that creamy goodness.
Powdered Sugar: For that perfect finishing touch, dust it over your bites for sweetness and visual appeal.
Whipped Cream: To top off this indulgent delight, provide a fluffy cloud of whipped cream.
Chocolate Syrup: If you’re a chocolate lover like me, drizzle some chocolate syrup for an even richer dessert experience.

For exact measurements, you’ll find all the details at the bottom of this article, ready for you to print out. Happy cooking!

How to Make Fried Strawberry Cheesecake

Ready to dive into the delightful world of Fried Strawberry Cheesecake? Follow these simple steps, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. With a little patience and love, you’ll create a dish that your family will cherish.

Prepare the Strawberry Sauce

First things first, let’s whip up that luscious strawberry sauce!

In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and water. Place the pan over medium heat and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. This simmering process is critical; it helps to bring out all the sweet flavors of the strawberries. Cook for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the berries soften and the sauce thickens up nicely. Once it’s done, let it cool completely. If you’re in a hurry, pop it in the fridge for a bit to help speed things along.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

Next up is the cheesecake filling, and trust me, this step is a creamy dream!

In a large mixing bowl, beat that softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s smooth and creamy—this should take around 2 to 3 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar while mixing, letting it blend nicely. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl to catch any sneaky bits. Once that’s mixed in, toss in the egg. Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to a rubbery texture, and nobody wants that! Lastly, stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. This combination not only enhances the flavors but creates a beautiful harmony in your cheesecake filling.

Assemble the Cheesecake Bites

Now it’s time to put together our cheesecake bites!

Start by laying out half of the graham cracker squares on a clean surface. Spoon or pipe a generous dollop of cheesecake filling onto each cracker. It should be dreamy enough to make you want to dive right in! Then, gently place another graham cracker square on top of the filling to create a sandwich. This is where the magic happens. Be sure to line up the bites on a baking sheet that’s lined with parchment paper. This keeps them from sticking, making your life much easier later on.

Freeze

Here comes the wait, but it’s worth it!

Slide your baking sheet with the assembled cheesecake bites into the freezer. You’ll want to freeze them for at least 2 hours, or until they are firm and fully set. Can’t wait that long? You can freeze them overnight for perfect results. This step is crucial for effective frying later!

Prepare the Breading Station

While your bites are freezing, get your breading station ready. This part is super simple!

Set three shallow dishes in a row. In the first dish, add all-purpose flour. In the second dish, whisk those beaten eggs until they’re nice and frothy. In the third dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Each one plays a unique role: the flour helps the egg stick, the egg binds everything together, and the panko gives that irresistible crunch.

Bread the Frozen Cheesecake Bites

Let’s get those bites all dressed up for frying!

Take the frozen cheesecake bites out of the freezer. One at a time, dredge each bite in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing the extra to drip off. Finally, roll it in the panko breadcrumb mixture, using a gentle press to help it stick. This layering is what will give them their iconic crispy coating. Place the breaded bites back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, ready for their second freeze!

Freeze Again

It’s time for one more quick chill!

Return the breaded bites to the freezer for about 30 minutes. This step helps ensure they maintain their shape during frying. Plus, it sets the breading nicely!

Fry the Cheesecake Bites

Now, the moment we’ve all been waiting for: frying!

Pour vegetable oil into a deep pot or Dutch oven—aim for about 2 to 3 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). This is the sweet spot for frying. Carefully add a few breaded cheesecake bites to the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding, or they won’t fry evenly. Fry for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. The sound of that frying oil is music to my ears!

Drain

We want to keep that crispy texture intact!

Using a slotted spoon, gently remove the fried cheesecake bites from the oil. Place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to let any excess oil drain off. This step is essential for maintaining their delicious crunch.

Serve

Finally, it’s time to dig in!

Serve those warm, crispy cheesecake bites immediately. Drizzle them generously with the prepared strawberry sauce—trust me, it’s worth it! You can also dust them with powdered sugar and add a fluffy dollop of whipped cream. If you’re feeling fancy, toss on some fresh sliced strawberries or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for that extra treat! Enjoy every mouthful!

Tips for Success

Don’t skip the freezing steps; they help the bites hold their shape while frying.
Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature for perfectly fried bites.
Feel free to get creative with toppings. Experiment with caramel sauce or nuts!
For a lighter option, air fry the bites instead of deep frying.
Always serve while warm for the best experience!

Equipment Needed

Medium Saucepan: For making the strawberry sauce. A small pot works too.
Mixing Bowl: For the cheesecake filling. Any large bowl will do!
Baking Sheet: To freeze the bites. A dish like a casserole works if needed.
Shallow Dishes: For the breading station. You can use plates for easy access.
Deep Pot or Dutch Oven: For frying. A heavy skillet can work in a pinch.
Slotted Spoon: Ideal for removing bites from oil easily. A regular spoon can suffice.

Variations on Fried Strawberry Cheesecake

Berry Medley: Swap out strawberries for a mix of your favorite berries like blueberries or raspberries. They add a delightful twist!
Chocolate Cheesecake: For all the chocolate lovers, mix in cocoa powder to the cheesecake filling for a rich chocolate flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers and panko breadcrumbs to make this dessert accessible for everyone.
Low-Sugar Version: Replace granulated sugar with a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol to create a healthier version.
Stuffed Options: Try adding a layer of Nutella or caramel sauce inside the cheesecake bites for an extra flavor boost!

Serving Suggestions for Fried Strawberry Cheesecake

Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of additional fresh strawberries or a berry medley for a colorful plate.
Ice Cream: Pair with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
Elegant Plating: Arrange bites on a platter with a drizzle of chocolate syrup for visual appeal.
Coffee or Tea: A cup of rich coffee or a soothing herbal tea makes the perfect drink complement.
Whipped Topping: Top with freshly whipped cream for added indulgence and texture.

FAQs about Fried Strawberry Cheesecake

Curious about Fried Strawberry Cheesecake? You’re not alone! Here are some common questions that pop up, along with helpful answers.

Can I make Fried Strawberry Cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cheesecake bites, bread them, and freeze them until you’re ready to fry. This makes it easy for last-minute entertaining!

What’s the best way to store leftover Fried Strawberry Cheesecake?

If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

Can I customize the filling for Fried Strawberry Cheesecake?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite flavors, like chocolate chips, or even a splash of lemon zest for a refreshing twist!

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

A kitchen thermometer is your best friend. The oil should reach 350°F (175°C) before adding the cheesecake bites for perfect frying. If you don’t have one, drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s ready!

Can I air fry Fried Strawberry Cheesecake bites instead of deep frying?

Yes! Cooking them in an air fryer is a healthier alternative. Just keep an eye on them to achieve that golden brown crunch!

Final Thoughts

Fried Strawberry Cheesecake is truly a celebration of flavors and textures that brings pure joy to any dessert table. With a crispy exterior and a luscious, creamy filling bursting with fresh strawberry goodness, this treat is bound to create happy memories. Whether you’re whipping them up for a cozy family night or a special gathering, the smiles you’ll see will make all the effort worthwhile. So, gather your loved ones, enjoy each bite, and create moments that’ll linger in your hearts long after the last crumb is gone. Trust me, this delightful recipe is a journey to sweetness!