Description
Fried cheesecake bites are a delightful treat featuring creamy cheesecake filling coated in a light batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. These bite-sized desserts are perfect for parties or indulging in a rich, crunchy sweet snack, served plain or with your favorite toppings like powdered sugar, jam, or chocolate sauce.
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 and Frying
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 cups canola oil (for frying)
Optional Garnish
- Powdered sugar
- Jam
- Chocolate sauce
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy freezing of the cheesecake balls.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: In a stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until creamy and smooth. Add granulated sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and graham cracker crumbs, then mix until well combined.
- Form Cheesecake Balls: Using a tablespoon, scoop out the mixture and shape into mounds. Place each ball on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze the cheesecake balls for at least 30 minutes until firm.
- Heat Oil: Pour the canola oil into a heavy bottom pot at least 2 inches deep and heat on medium until the temperature reaches 365 °F (185 °C).
- Prepare Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder. Gradually whisk in milk until the batter is smooth.
- Batter the Cheesecake Balls: Remove cheesecake balls from the freezer. If desired, gently round them out more with minimal handling. Using a slotted spoon, dip several balls at a time into the batter, turning to coat evenly.
- Fry the Bites: Carefully place no more than 3 coated cheesecake balls into the hot oil to prevent lowering the temperature. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Use tongs to turn them evenly.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried bites with tongs and place them on a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil. Serve warm, optionally garnished with powdered sugar, jam, or chocolate sauce.
Notes
- Ensure the cheesecake balls are well frozen before frying to maintain shape and prevent melting into the oil.
- Maintain oil temperature at 365 °F for even cooking and crispiness.
- Do not overcrowd the oil; frying a few pieces at a time keeps the temperature stable.
- Use whole milk in the batter for best texture and flavor.
- These bites are best served immediately but can be reheated briefly for crispiness.
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
