Crispy Cinnamon Cheesecake Bites Recipe
If you’re looking to wow your friends or simply satisfy a serious sweet tooth, Crispy Cinnamon Cheesecake Bites are your new go-to treat. Imagine a creamy, dreamy cheesecake filling wrapped in a crispy shell, then tumbled in cinnamon-sugar—perfectly poppable and outrageously delicious! Each bite is a delightful mix of warm spices and silky cheese, wrapped up in a golden shell that shatters with every bite. I promise, they’re as addictive as they sound, and you’ll want to make a double batch before you know it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The real beauty of these bites lies in their simplicity—just a handful of classic ingredients, each with a unique role in building flavor and texture. Trust me, you’ll appreciate how each element transforms these morsels into pure, crispy joy!
- Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened): The star of the show—make sure it’s room temperature so your filling turns out impossibly smooth!
- Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the filling just enough to make that cinnamon pop.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds cozy, aromatic depth and brings out the cream cheese flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Warm, spicy, and crucial for that classic cinnamon roll-esque vibe.
- Egg Roll Wrappers or Wonton Wrappers (12): These form the crackly, golden exterior that holds it all together—choose your favorite size and shape!
- Water (1/4 cup): Just a little bit for sealing the edges so none of that luscious filling escapes during frying.
- Vegetable Oil (for frying): Opt for a neutral oil with a high smoke point to deliver maximum crispiness.
- Cinnamon Sugar (1/2 cup sugar + 1 tablespoon cinnamon): The finishing touch—this sweet, spiced dusting makes every bite sparkle.
How to Make Crispy Cinnamon Cheesecake Bites
Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Filling
Start by combining the cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon in a medium bowl. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon to whip everything together until you get a smooth, creamy filling. This blend is the luscious heart of your Crispy Cinnamon Cheesecake Bites, so be sure there are no lumps and the mixture is well-blended.
Step 2: Fill and Seal the Wrappers
Lay out your egg roll wrappers (or wonton wrappers, if you prefer mini bites) on a clean surface. Place about one tablespoon of the cheesecake filling in the center of each. Dip your finger in water and lightly wet the edges—this helps create a seal. Gently fold the wrapper over the filling, pressing firmly along the edges. You can make triangles for a fun shape or roll them up like mini egg rolls.
Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection
Pour about two inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot and heat to 350°F. Carefully lower the filled wrappers into the oil in small batches—don’t overcrowd the pan! Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they puff up and turn a gorgeous golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off excess oil. This is when the magic happens: the outsides become crispy and shatteringly thin, while the inside stays creamy and dreamy.
Step 4: Toss in Cinnamon Sugar
While the bites are still warm (but not piping hot!), roll them in your cinnamon sugar mixture so the coating sticks to every nook and cranny. This final sugary touch is what transforms these treats into show-stopping Crispy Cinnamon Cheesecake Bites—don’t be shy with that cinnamon sugar!
Step 5: Baking or Air-Frying Option (For a Lighter Twist)
If you’re craving a lighter version, simply place assembled bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes, or air-fry at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes. Still irresistibly crispy, with less oil on your hands.
How to Serve Crispy Cinnamon Cheesecake Bites
Garnishes
The best part is getting creative with garnishes. A dusting of extra cinnamon sugar always highlights their sparkle, but you can also drizzle with chocolate sauce, caramel, or dollops of whipped cream for some extra flair. A few fresh berries on the side add a pop of color and freshness against the rich, creamy filling.
Side Dishes
Pair Crispy Cinnamon Cheesecake Bites with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cozy mug of coffee. If you’re serving them at a party, try offering a dipping bar—think warm fudge, raspberry coulis, or honey. Trust me, your guests will have so much fun designing their own perfect bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve them stacked high on a rustic wooden board for a casual gathering, or nestle each bite in a cupcake liner for a more polished presentation. For holidays, you can scatter festive sprinkles on top or even tie a few together in a cellophane bag for edible gifts. However you serve them, Crispy Cinnamon Cheesecake Bites are guaranteed to steal the spotlight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover bites can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. While they’re tastiest fresh, the flavors meld nicely overnight—just be sure to let them cool completely before storing to avoid condensation and sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to make ahead, freeze un-fried (but fully assembled) bites on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. You can fry them straight from the freezer—just add an extra minute or two to the cook time and watch for that golden glow.
Reheating
To revive leftover Crispy Cinnamon Cheesecake Bites, warm them up in a 350°F oven or air fryer for about 5 minutes. Avoid the microwave, since it can zap the crispiness. They’ll taste almost as good as freshly made!
FAQs
Can I use phyllo dough instead of egg roll wrappers?
Absolutely! Phyllo dough will give you an even more delicate, flaky crunch, but be sure to brush each sheet with melted butter before filling and baking or frying for best results.
What’s the best way to keep the bites crispy if I’m serving them later?
Once fried, let the bites cool on a rack instead of paper towels to allow air circulation all around. This way, the bottoms won’t get soggy and your Crispy Cinnamon Cheesecake Bites will maintain their irresistible crunch.
Are Crispy Cinnamon Cheesecake Bites gluten-free?
Standard wrappers contain wheat, but you can look for gluten-free egg roll wrappers or even try using thin rice paper. Be sure to check all labels if you’re serving someone with gluten sensitivity.
Can I make these bites in advance for a party?
Yes, prepare and assemble them up to a day ahead, then store covered in the fridge until you’re ready to fry, bake, or air fry. Toss in cinnamon sugar just before serving for best freshness.
What kind of oil is best for frying?
A neutral, high-heat oil such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil works best. These oils let the flavors of the Crispy Cinnamon Cheesecake Bites shine through and ensure even browning without any strong aftertaste.
Final Thoughts
I can’t encourage you enough to try these Crispy Cinnamon Cheesecake Bites—once you do, you’ll want them at every gathering and, honestly, sometimes just because you deserve a treat. They’re pure joy in every crispy, creamy bite. Go ahead, grab your wrappers and cream cheese, and let’s make some sweet memories!
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Crispy Cinnamon Cheesecake Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 bites 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these irresistible Crispy Cinnamon Cheesecake Bites – a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake filling wrapped in a crispy shell, fried to perfection, and coated in sweet cinnamon sugar.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wrapper and Coating:
- 12 egg roll wrappers or wonton wrappers
- 1/4 cup water (for sealing)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (1/2 cup sugar + 1 tablespoon cinnamon)
Instructions
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Assemble Bites: Place 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each wrapper. Wet edges with water, fold into a triangle or roll up, sealing tightly.
- Fry Bites: Heat vegetable oil to 350°F. Fry bites in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: While warm, toss the fried bites in cinnamon sugar to coat.
Notes
- For a lighter version, these can be baked at 400°F for 12–15 minutes or air-fried at 375°F for 8–10 minutes.
- Enjoy warm with chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
