Introduction
Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas are a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake filling and fresh strawberries, all wrapped in a crispy, golden tortilla. This dessert is a perfect treat for any occasion, combining the best elements of traditional cheesecake with the fun and flavor of a chimichanga. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, these chimichangas will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Overview of the Recipe
This recipe involves preparing a sweet strawberry filling, a rich cheesecake mixture, and then assembling and frying the chimichangas to perfection. The final touch is rolling the warm chimichangas in a cinnamon-sugar mixture for an extra layer of sweetness and crunch. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of 10 minutes, these chimichangas are a quick and impressive dessert option.
Ingredients
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Cheesecake Mixture:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chimichangas:
- 6 large flour tortillas
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Coating:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the chopped strawberries, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice. Stir well to combine and set aside to macerate.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Mixture
- Beat Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Chimichangas
- Spread Cheesecake Mixture: Lay out each tortilla and spread a few tablespoons of the cheesecake mixture onto the center of each one.
- Add Strawberry Filling: Top the cheesecake mixture with a few spoonfuls of the strawberry filling.
- Roll Up: Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up from the bottom to form a tight chimichanga.
Step 4: Fry the Chimichangas
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Fry Chimichangas: Carefully place the chimichangas in the hot oil and fry, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides (about 2-3 minutes per side).
- Drain: Remove the chimichangas from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 5: Coat and Serve
- Mix Coating: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
- Coat Chimichangas: While the chimichangas are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
- Serve: Serve the chimichangas warm, with additional strawberries or whipped cream if desired.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
25 minutes
Servings:
6 servings
Calories:
320 kcal per serving
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas are best enjoyed warm, straight from the frying pan. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat. Fresh mint leaves and additional fresh strawberries can also be added as a garnish to enhance the presentation and flavor.
Variations of the Recipe
- Blueberry Cheesecake Chimichangas: Substitute the strawberries with fresh blueberries for a different fruity twist.
- Chocolate Cheesecake Chimichangas: Add mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake mixture or drizzle melted chocolate over the finished chimichangas.
- Nutella Cheesecake Chimichangas: Spread a thin layer of Nutella on the tortilla before adding the cheesecake mixture and strawberries.
- Banana Cheesecake Chimichangas: Add sliced bananas to the filling for a creamy and sweet addition.
Health Benefits
While Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas are an indulgent treat, they do offer some benefits from their ingredients. Strawberries are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, which can help support overall health. Cream cheese provides a source of calcium and protein. To make this dessert slightly healthier, you can opt for low-fat cream cheese and reduce the amount of sugar in the filling and coating.
Notes
- Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture without absorbing too much oil.
- Softening Cream Cheese: Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother consistency.
- Tortilla Size: Use large flour tortillas to hold the filling securely and prevent them from bursting during frying.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mixing with sugar and lemon juice.
2. How do I store leftover chimichangas? Store any leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and crispy.
3. Can I bake the chimichangas instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake them. Brush the rolled chimichangas with melted butter and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
4. What other fruits can I use for the filling? You can use a variety of fruits such as raspberries, peaches, or mixed berries for the filling. Just adjust the sugar amount based on the sweetness of the fruit.
Conclusion
Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas are a delectable dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the freshness of strawberries, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. This recipe is simple to follow and yields impressive results, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying a cozy dessert at home, these chimichangas are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Try this recipe today and experience the delightful blend of flavors and textures!