Introduction
These Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas are a heavenly mashup of creamy cheesecake, juicy strawberries, and crispy fried tortillas—all rolled into one decadent dessert. Imagine the tangy-sweet filling of a cheesecake wrapped in a golden, cinnamon-sugar crust, ready in just 25 minutes! Perfect for summer gatherings, indulgent brunches, or when you’re craving something fun and different. A fun twist on the classic Mexican chimichanga, this dessert version is sure to become a favorite.
Pro Tip
For extra crispiness without overcooking, fry the chimichangas in oil heated to 350°F (175°C)—use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. Too hot, and they’ll brown too fast; too cool, and they’ll soak up oil.
Serving Suggestions
- Summer Party Showstopper: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of strawberry sauce.
- Brunch Upgrade: Pair with iced coffee or a mimosa for a sweet midday treat.
- Cozy Night In: Dust with extra powdered sugar and enjoy with a mug of hot chocolate.
Variations
- Berry Swap: Use blueberries, raspberries, or a mix instead of strawberries.
- Air Fryer Version: Spritz chimichangas with oil and air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Chocolate Lover’s: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling or drizzle with melted chocolate after frying.
- Lighter Option: Swap cream cheese for reduced-fat Neufchâtel and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes instead of frying.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl: For blending the creamy cheesecake filling.
- Skillet or pot: Deep enough to safely fry the chimichangas.
- Slotted spoon: To lift chimichangas out of hot oil without breaking them.
- Candy thermometer: Ensures oil stays at the perfect frying temperature.
Tips for Success
- Soften cream cheese completely to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Don’t overfill tortillas—about ¼ cup of filling per chimichanga keeps them from bursting.
- Seal edges tightly by pressing firmly; dab with water if needed to help them stick.
- Drain fried chimichangas on a wire rack (not just paper towels) to keep them crispy.
- Coat in cinnamon sugar while warm so it adheres better.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These chimichangas are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—crispy outside, lusciously creamy inside, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. They’re quicker to make than traditional cheesecake but just as satisfying. Plus, the recipe is easy to customize with your favorite fruits or toppings!
Recipe Card
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 4 large flour tortillas (8-inch size)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Directions
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in strawberries.
- Divide filling among tortillas, placing it in the center of each. Fold sides in, then roll tightly like a burrito.
- Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish; set aside.
- Heat 1 inch of oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry chimichangas 1–2 minutes per side until golden.
- Drain briefly, then roll in cinnamon sugar. Serve warm.
Nutrition Table (per chimichanga)
| Calories: 420 kcal | Protein: 5g | Carbs: 45g | Fat: 25g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 30g | Sodium: 320mg |
Nutritional values are estimated and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
FAQ
1. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Brush with melted butter and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until crispy.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
3. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Thaw and drain them well first to avoid excess moisture making the tortillas soggy.
4. Are corn tortillas okay?
Flour tortillas work best—they’re more pliable and won’t crack when rolling.
5. Can I prep these ahead?
Assemble (but don’t fry) up to 4 hours ahead; store covered in the fridge until ready to cook.
