If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the irresistible crunch of deep frying, then this Deep Fried Cheesecake Recipe is precisely what you need to try next. It’s a dreamy dessert that transforms a simple frozen cheesecake into a golden, crispy indulgence that’s warm on the inside and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just craving a show-stopping treat, this recipe brings together surprisingly straightforward ingredients to deliver a result that’s decadently crunchy, sweet, and utterly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Deep Fried Cheesecake Recipe is refreshingly simple. Each component plays a specific role, from creating a crispy outer layer to ensuring the cheesecake stays irresistibly creamy inside and adding a hint of aromatic sweetness.
- Frozen Cheesecake: Using a fully frozen cheesecake is crucial to keep the dessert firm while frying and achieving the perfect creamy texture inside.
- 1.5 cups pancake mix: This versatile mix forms the light, crispy coating that encases the cheesecake, helping to seal in its luscious interior.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binding agent to help the batter stick perfectly to the cheesecake slices.
- 1 cup milk: Creates a smooth batter consistency that fries up golden and crunchy without being greasy.
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil: Added to the batter to enhance the texture and prevent it from being too cakey after frying.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a lovely aroma and mild sweetness into the batter for an extra flavor boost.
- Oil for frying: You’ll need enough vegetable oil, about 3 inches deep, to fully submerge each cheesecake piece and ensure even frying.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: For dusting the finished fried cheesecake, adding a delicate sweetness and an elegant touch.
- Optional: Strawberry dipping sauce: Or any favorite sauce you love for a fruity, tangy contrast that complements the richness brilliantly.
How to Make Deep Fried Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake
Start by slicing your frozen cheesecake into manageable, bite-sized pieces—about 1 to 1.5 inches thick works beautifully. Keeping the cheesecake frozen is key because it ensures the creamy center won’t melt too quickly in the hot oil, giving you that perfect contrast between crisp and creamy.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, egg, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth batter without lumps. This batter will create the essential crispy crust surrounding your cheesecake, so aim for a consistency that’s thick enough to coat but not overly heavy.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Pour your vegetable oil into a deep pot or fryer until it’s about 3 inches deep and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Keeping the oil at the right temperature ensures the cheesecake bites cook quickly and evenly, preventing excessive oil absorption for a light, crunchy finish.
Step 4: Coat and Fry the Cheesecake
Dip each frozen cheesecake piece into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated, and carefully lower it into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, turning occasionally until they’re golden brown all over—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes per batch.
Step 5: Drain and Dust
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried cheesecake bites and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil. While still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar for that classic finishing touch that’s sure to impress.
How to Serve Deep Fried Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Deep Fried Cheesecake Recipe presentation, consider sprinkling with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries, or adding a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. A sprig of mint can also provide a fresh contrast to the rich sweetness.
Side Dishes
This crunchy, creamy dessert pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides such as a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you want to add a fruity twist, serving it alongside a tangy fruit compote will brighten each bite perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your Deep Fried Cheesecake Recipe on skewers for easy sharing at parties or as individual canapé-style bites. You can also plate it as a decadent dessert tower by stacking the fried pieces and layering with sauces and fresh fruit for a delightful showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store any uneaten fried cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind the crust may lose some crispiness, but it will still taste delicious.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze uncooked, battered cheesecake pieces by placing them on parchment-lined trays and freezing until solid before transferring to a freezer bag. This way, you can fry them straight from frozen whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
To regain that fresh-out-of-the-fryer crispness, reheat your fried cheesecake bites in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it tends to make the crust soggy and dull the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cheesecake instead of frozen?
Fresh cheesecake will not hold up well during frying; it’s essential to use frozen cheesecake to maintain the shape and avoid melting in the oil.
What type of oil is best for frying cheesecake?
Vegetable oil or canola oil are great choices because they have a neutral flavor and high smoke point, which is perfect for deep frying.
Is the pancake mix necessary?
The pancake mix provides a light and crispy coating that balances the smooth cheesecake inside. While you might try other batters, pancake mix is simple and effective.
How do I know when the oil is the right temperature?
Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain 350°F, or test by dropping a small bit of batter into the oil—it should bubble and float to the top quickly but not burn.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free pancake mix and ensure your batter ingredients are gluten-free to adapt this Deep Fried Cheesecake Recipe for gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
This Deep Fried Cheesecake Recipe is a delightful way to surprise your taste buds and impress friends with a dessert that’s crispy, creamy, and absolutely crave-worthy. Give it a try soon, and you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy cheesecake with a crispy twist you never knew you needed.
Print
Deep Fried Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 14 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Deep Fried Cheesecake recipe transforms a classic dessert into a decadent treat with a crispy, golden batter exterior and a warm, creamy cheesecake center. Perfect for parties or a special indulgence, it combines the smooth richness of cheesecake with a light, crispy fried batter coating, served with a dusting of powdered sugar and optional strawberry dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Cheesecake
- 1 frozen cheesecake (about 8 inches diameter)
Batter
- 1.5 cups pancake mix (any kind will work)
- 1 egg
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Frying and Serving
- Oil for frying (about 3 inches deep, vegetable or canola oil recommended)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Optional: Strawberry dipping sauce or any favorite dipping sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake: Allow the frozen cheesecake to thaw slightly to make it easier to cut, but ensure it is still firm. Cut the cheesecake into smaller, individual-sized slices or wedges, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick.
- Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, egg, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. It should have a slightly thick but pourable consistency.
- Heat the Oil: Pour oil into a deep frying pan or deep fryer to a depth of about 3 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C); use a kitchen thermometer if available.
- Batter the Cheesecake Slices: Dip each cheesecake slice into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Let any excess batter drip off before frying.
- Deep Fry the Cheesecake: Carefully place the battered cheesecake slices into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, turning gently once, until the batter is golden brown and crispy. Be cautious as the cheesecake inside is delicate and can melt quickly.
- Drain and Serve: Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried cheesecake from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Dust and Enjoy: Sprinkle the fried cheesecake with powdered sugar. Serve immediately with optional strawberry dipping sauce or your preferred dipping sauce for a delightful sweet contrast.
Notes
- Ensure the oil temperature is maintained around 350°F to avoid greasy, undercooked batter or burnt coating.
- Do not over-fry; the cheesecake melts quickly and can lose shape if cooked too long.
- Use a firm, frozen cheesecake for best results to maintain structure during frying.
- Allow fried pieces to drain well to reduce excess oiliness before serving.
- Experiment with different dipping sauces such as chocolate, caramel, or fruit compotes for variety.
