Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches are a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake filling, sweet strawberries, and crispy golden bread. This indulgent treat is perfect for dessert lovers who enjoy a twist on classic flavors. These sandwiches bring together the tangy richness of cheesecake, the natural sweetness of strawberries, and a crispy exterior that will leave you craving more. Whether served as a decadent dessert or a special brunch item, they’re a guaranteed hit!
Ingredients
- 8 slices of soft white bread (crusts removed)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, or strawberry sauce
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Fold in the diced strawberries and, if desired, a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor. Set the filling aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of the cheesecake filling on half of the slices, then top with the remaining slices to create sandwiches. Gently press the edges together to seal them.
Step 3: Prepare the Coating
Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the flour. In the second dish, whisk together the eggs and milk. In the third dish, add the breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Coat the Sandwiches
Carefully dip each sandwich into the flour, ensuring all sides are lightly coated. Next, dip the sandwich into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the sandwich in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 5: Fry the Sandwiches
In a deep skillet or saucepan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the sandwiches in batches, cooking for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sandwiches to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Step 6: Serve
Dust the fried sandwiches with powdered sugar and serve warm. Add optional toppings like whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate, or strawberry sauce for an extra touch of decadence.
Variations
- Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling or drizzle melted chocolate over the finished sandwiches.
- Berry Medley: Substitute strawberries with a mix of raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix crushed nuts, such as almonds or pecans, into the breadcrumbs for a nutty flavor and extra crunch.
- Baked Option: For a lighter version, bake the coated sandwiches at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for smooth blending.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture, but frozen strawberries can work if drained thoroughly.
- Maintain the oil temperature for even frying; overheating can cause the sandwiches to burn quickly.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these sandwiches with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect dessert combination.
- Serve them as part of a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and mimosas.
- Enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
Tips
- Seal the edges of the sandwiches well to prevent the filling from leaking during frying.
- Test the oil temperature with a small piece of bread; it should sizzle and turn golden within 15 seconds.
- If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work, but panko provides superior crispiness.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
15 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fat: 18g
FAQs
Q: Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble and coat the sandwiches in advance. Store them in the fridge and fry just before serving for the best taste.
Q: Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! Brioche or challah bread works wonderfully for a richer flavor.
Q: Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Yes, any fruit that pairs well with cream cheese, such as peaches, mangoes, or mixed berries, will work beautifully.
Conclusion
Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches are the ultimate indulgent treat for any occasion. The crispy, golden exterior encases a luscious, creamy filling bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert or a unique brunch addition, these sandwiches deliver on taste and texture. Easy to customize and even easier to devour, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Try them once, and they’ll quickly become a staple for special moments!