There’s something incredibly delightful about taking a beloved dessert and transforming it into a fun, finger-friendly treat. Imagine sinking your teeth into a crisp, golden brown egg roll, and as you take a bite, a luscious, cherry-filled cheesecake filling oozes from within. These Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls don’t just taste indulgent; they bring a festive charm that can elevate any gathering. I stumbled upon this recipe on a lazy afternoon, and now it holds a special place in my heart (and stomach). They’ve become a go-to for potlucks, game nights, and even cozy evenings at home with my family.

## Recipe Timing

Prep Duration: 20 minutes
Active Cooking: 10 minutes
Total Duration: 30 minutes
Portion Size: Serves 4 (two egg rolls each)
Complexity: Simple

## Nutritional Recipe

Calories per portion: Approximately 400 calories
Protein: 6 grams
Carbs: 45 grams
Fats: 20 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugars: 14 grams
Sodium: 200 mg

## Why You’ll Love This Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls

Let’s face it—everyone enjoys a bite-sized dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the tangy sweetness of cherries, all wrapped in a crispy shell. These Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls are super versatile; they can be an elegant dessert for a dinner party or a fun snack for movie night. Plus, the satisfaction that comes from making them yourself is unbeatable! As you pull them out of the frying oil, with that golden hue glistening, you’ll be ready to relish this culinary masterpiece.

## The Complete Cooking Journey

Now, let’s embark on this simple yet rewarding cookery adventure! Grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into these delicious Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls.

## Ingredients:

Oil suitable for frying
4 ounces of cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 teaspoon of lemon zest
3 tablespoons of granulated sugar
½ teaspoon of lemon juice
1 can of cherry pie filling
8 egg roll wrappers (6×6 size recommended)

## Method:

### Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a suitable mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the lemon zest, lemon juice, and granulated sugar. Utilizing an electric mixer or a robust whisk, beat the mixture until it is thoroughly smooth and devoid of lumps.

### Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls

Arrange the egg roll wrappers on a clean, flat surface, positioning them so that they form a diamond shape. Spoon an appropriate amount of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each wrapper.

### Step 3: Add the Cherry Filling

Carefully place a spoonful of cherry pie filling atop the cream cheese mixture on each wrapper. This should be done meticulously to maintain distinct layers of filling.

### Step 4: Seal the Wrappers

Dampen the edges of each egg roll wrapper with water using your fingertips or a pastry brush. This step is crucial as it helps seal the ingredients within. Gently fold and roll the wrapper around the fillings, ensuring the edges are tightly sealed. Allow the rolls to rest for 3 to 4 minutes, which aids in securing the seal and preventing leakage during frying.

### Step 5: Fry the Egg Rolls

Preheat the frying oil in a deep skillet or a fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry the egg rolls in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which ensures even cooking and optimal crispiness. Each batch should be fried until the rolls are uniformly golden brown and crisp.

### Step 6: Serve

Remove the egg rolls from the oil and drain on absorbent paper towels. Serve the rolls warm, ideally with a light dusting of powdered sugar to enhance their aesthetic and taste appeal.

## Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve your Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. These delectable treats also pair well with a warm cup of coffee or a chilled glass of soda, making them perfect for any occasion.

## Storage & Leftovers Guide

If you happen to have any leftovers (hard to imagine, but just in case!), store the egg rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To enjoy them warm again, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to keep that delightful crispiness intact.

## Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

Don’t Overcrowd: When frying, make sure not to overload the skillet. This helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
Sealing the Edges: Wetting the edges of the wrappers before sealing is essential—this is your safeguard against any filling escaping during frying.
Experiment: Feel free to experiment with different fillings! Try incorporating chocolate chips or other fruit pie fillings alongside the cherry.

## Flavor Variations & Adaptations

If you’re in the mood to switch things up, consider adding a drizzle of chocolate over the top or using fresh fruit instead of canned filling. Alternatively, try a different cheese like mascarpone for a unique taste.

## Reader Questions & Solutions

Q: My egg rolls seem to be bursting while frying. What should I do?
A: Ensure that the wrappers are sealed tightly. Consider letting them rest a bit longer before frying to help secure the seal.
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying them?
A: Yes! Brush the rolls with a bit of butter and bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown for a healthier version.
Q: What can I substitute for cream cheese?
A: Cream cheese can be replaced with ricotta cheese for a slightly different texture or flavored mascarpone for an extra touch of creaminess.
Q: How do I keep the egg rolls crispy after frying?
A: Storing them on a wire rack rather than on paper towels after frying helps prevent sogginess.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the egg rolls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and transfer them to a bag for later frying right from the freezer!

## Wrapping Up

These Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls are more than just a dessert; they’re a little piece of joy that can elevate any occasion. So roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and treat your loved ones (or yourself!) to this delightful creation. Remember, good food is all about creating memories, so enjoy every moment of the process! Happy cooking!