Description
Fried Cheesecake Bites are a decadent dessert featuring creamy cheesecake centers coated in a light batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. These bite-sized treats are crispy on the outside and rich and sweet inside, making them perfect for parties or indulgent snacks. Serve them plain or with powdered sugar, jam, or chocolate sauce for an extra special touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 ounce cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ cup graham cracker crumbs
Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 cup whole milk
For Frying
- 4 cups canola oil
Optional Garnish
- Powdered sugar
- Jam
- Chocolate sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add granulated sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and graham cracker crumbs, mixing until fully combined.
- Form cheesecake balls: Using a tablespoon, scoop the mixture into mounds on the parchment-lined baking sheet. The balls don't need to be perfectly round. Freeze them for at least 30 minutes until firm.
- Heat the oil: Pour 4 cups of canola oil into a heavy bottom pot, ensuring it is at least 2 inches deep. Heat the oil on medium to 365 °F (185 °C).
- Prepare the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add whole milk and whisk until smooth and free of lumps.
- Set up for frying: Line a separate baking sheet with paper towels to drain the fried bites. Have a slotted spoon and tongs ready.
- Batter and fry the bites: Remove cheesecake balls from freezer. Optionally, gently shape them more round but handle minimally to keep firm. Use the slotted spoon to dip a few balls at a time into the batter, coating completely. Carefully place up to three coated balls into the hot oil to avoid lowering the temperature. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, turning for even browning.
- Drain and serve: Remove fried bites with tongs and transfer to the paper towel-lined tray to drain excess oil. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy plain or dust with powdered sugar, or serve with jam or chocolate sauce as desired.
Notes
- For best texture, ensure cream cheese is fully softened before mixing.
- Do not overcrowd the oil while frying to maintain temperature and crispiness.
- Handle frozen cheesecake balls gently to keep their shape.
- Use whole milk for a richer batter; substitutes can affect texture.
- Oil temperature is critical; use a thermometer for accuracy.
- These bites are best enjoyed fresh but can be kept warm in a low oven for a short time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 123 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 129 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 17 mg
