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This luxurious cream cheese dessert transforms the humble egg roll into an indulgent treat that rivals restaurant quality. The crispy exterior gives way to a velvety sweet filling, creating an irresistible contrast that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
I first made these for a neighborhood potluck when I needed something different from the usual cookies and brownies. They disappeared within minutes, and now they're requested at every gathering I attend.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: provides the rich, tangy base that makes these egg rolls special
- Sugar: balances the tanginess with just the right amount of sweetness
- Lemon juice: adds a subtle brightness that cuts through the richness
- Vanilla extract: enhances the dessert flavor profile beautifully
- Salt: enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness
- Egg roll wrappers: create the perfect crispy shell look for good quality ones without tears
- Oil for frying: choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or vegetable
- Cinnamon sugar coating: gives that classic churro like exterior everyone loves
- Optional toppings: like caramel, chocolate, or fresh strawberries for customization
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oil:
- Heat 2 inches of oil in a large stockpot over medium heat until it reaches 375°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy as temperature is crucial for that perfect crispy texture without greasiness.
- Mix the Filling:
- Combine cream cheese, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla, and salt in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment. Beat on high speed for 1-2 minutes, pausing occasionally to scrape down the sides. The filling should be completely smooth and fluffy with no lumps whatsoever.
- Wrap the Egg Rolls:
- Position an egg roll wrapper with one corner facing you like a diamond. Place 2 tablespoons of filling in the center. Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, then fold the side corners toward the middle similar to an envelope. Apply water to the top corner and complete the roll, ensuring all edges are sealed tightly.
- Fry to Perfection:
- Carefully lower 4 egg rolls into the heated oil and fry for about 2 minutes, turning occasionally until they achieve a beautiful golden brown color all around. The wrapper should be crisp and bubbled with no soggy patches.
- Apply Cinnamon Sugar:
- While the egg rolls are still hot, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring complete coverage. The heat helps the sugar adhere perfectly to create that signature sweet coating.
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The cream cheese is truly the star ingredient here. I discovered that allowing it to come to room temperature before mixing creates the silkiest filling texture. My daughter now helps make these every Sunday night as our special end of weekend tradition.
Make Ahead Options
These cheesecake egg rolls can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Simply prepare the rolls through the wrapping stage, place them on a parchment lined baking sheet with space between each roll, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, fry directly from the refrigerator, adding about 30 seconds to the cooking time. The convenience of advance preparation makes these perfect for entertaining.
Perfect Pairings
While these egg rolls are delicious on their own, they truly shine when served with complementary elements. Try drizzling warm caramel sauce over the top, or offer a chocolate dipping sauce on the side. For a fresher take, macerate fresh strawberries with a touch of sugar and serve alongside. During summer months, a scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms this into an elevated restaurant worthy dessert.
Troubleshooting Tips
The most common issue when making these rolls is filling leakage during frying. To prevent this, avoid overfilling the wrappers and ensure all seams are completely sealed with water. If the oil temperature drops below 350°F, the rolls may become greasy, so maintain consistent heat throughout the frying process. Should your cinnamon sugar mixture clump when coating hot egg rolls, simply prepare a fresh batch halfway through the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of cream cheese should I use?
Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor in the filling.
- → Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until golden brown, but they may not be as crispy as fried ones.
- → How can I prevent the egg rolls from bursting during frying?
Ensure the rolls are sealed tightly and do not overfill them. Use water to secure the edges of the wrapper firmly.
- → What toppings pair well with these egg rolls?
Caramel, chocolate sauce, powdered sugar, and chopped strawberries are excellent choices to enhance the flavors.
- → Can I store leftover egg rolls?
Yes, store cooked egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results.