Crispy Cheesecake Roll-Ups

This indulgent fried cheesecake roll-up recipe transforms simple ingredients into a dessert that tastes like it came straight from a county fair. The contrast between the crispy, cinnamon-sugar coated exterior and the creamy, vanilla-scented filling creates a treat that's impossible to resist when served warm.

I first made these roll-ups for my daughter's sleepover party, and they disappeared faster than any store-bought dessert ever could. Now they've become our special Friday night treat when we want something that feels indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Cream cheese: Provides the rich, tangy base that makes these roll-ups irresistible. Choose full-fat for the creamiest results.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens without graininess. Its fine texture ensures perfect incorporation into the cream cheese.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth. Use pure rather than imitation for the best flavor profile.
• White sandwich bread: Serves as the perfect neutral canvas. Fresh bread works better than stale for proper rolling.
• Cinnamon and sugar: Create that classic carnival treat coating. Ceylon cinnamon offers more complex flavor if available.
• Butter: Helps the cinnamon sugar adhere and enhances browning. European-style butter has a higher fat content for extra richness.
• Vegetable or canola oil: Withstands the high heat needed for frying. Choose a neutral-flavored oil to let the filling shine.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the filling:

Beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until completely smooth. Ensure the cream cheese is truly at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting to avoid any lumps in your filling. The texture should be spreadable but not runny, similar to frosting consistency.

Prepare the bread:

Take your time flattening each bread slice with a rolling pin. Work from the center outward until each slice is about half its original thickness. This step is crucial for proper rolling and ensuring the bread crisps up nicely when fried.

Fill and roll:

Spread approximately one tablespoon of filling along one edge of the flattened bread. Be careful not to overfill or the filling will squeeze out during frying. Roll tightly starting from the filled edge, pressing gently to seal the seam. If needed, slightly dampen the final edge with water to help it stick.

Prepare for frying:

Heat your oil to exactly 350°F for optimal results. Too hot and the outside will burn before the inside warms through, too cool and they will absorb excess oil. A thermometer is invaluable here. While the oil heats, combine your cinnamon and sugar thoroughly in a shallow bowl wide enough to roll your finished treats.

Fry to perfection:

Place the roll-ups seam-side down first to seal them shut. Work in small batches of 2-3 maximum to maintain oil temperature. Watch carefully as they brown quickly, usually needing only 60-90 seconds per side. Look for a deep golden color rather than timing exactly.

Finish with cinnamon sugar:

Roll each hot roll-up immediately in the cinnamon-sugar mixture while still hot from the fryer. The residual oil helps the sweet coating adhere perfectly. Roll them completely for an even coating around all sides.

Save

The vanilla extract is my secret weapon in this recipe. I always add a splash more than called for because the warm, floral notes create this incredible aroma that fills the kitchen. My husband can always tell when I'm making these because the whole house smells like a pastry shop within minutes of starting.

Storage Tips

These cheesecake roll-ups are truly at their peak when freshly made, but if you need to prepare components ahead, the cream cheese filling can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For any rare leftover fully-prepared roll-ups, store in a paper towel-lined container at room temperature for up to 12 hours. The paper towel helps preserve the crispy exterior by absorbing excess moisture. Reheat briefly in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to restore some crispness.

Creative Variations

The basic recipe is merely a starting point for endless creativity. Consider stuffing with a teaspoon of fruit preserves alongside the cream cheese filling for fruity variations. Raspberry, strawberry, and apricot work beautifully. For chocolate lovers, add mini chocolate chips or a thin spread of Nutella before rolling. Fall spice enthusiasts might appreciate adding a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom or pumpkin pie spice to the filling during colder months. The bread itself can also be varied using cinnamon swirl bread, brioche, or even chocolate bread for more complex flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions

These roll-ups create a stunning dessert platter when arranged with varying accompaniments. Try serving them alongside small ramekins of different dipping sauces like warm chocolate ganache, caramel, or fruit coulis. For an elegant dinner party dessert, place two warm roll-ups on a plate with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry coulis. They also pair beautifully with coffee or hot chocolate for afternoon treats. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit to balance the richness.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?

While best served fresh and warm, you can prepare the cream cheese filling and flatten the bread ahead of time. Store separately in the refrigerator, then assemble and fry just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

→ What's the best type of bread to use?

White sandwich bread works best because it's soft and pliable. Brioche or challah can also work well for a richer flavor, but avoid dense or grainy breads that won't flatten easily.

→ How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

The oil should reach about 350°F. If you don't have a thermometer, test by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil - it should bubble immediately and brown in about 60 seconds if the temperature is correct.

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes! Brush the rolled-up bread with melted butter, coat in cinnamon sugar, and bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes until golden and crispy. They'll have a different texture but will still be delicious.

→ What can I add to the filling for different flavors?

Try adding lemon or orange zest, mini chocolate chips, fruit preserves, or a sprinkle of ground spices like nutmeg or cardamom to the cream cheese filling. You can also place a thin slice of fresh fruit inside each roll before frying.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store cooled roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore some crispness. Note that they won't be as crispy as when freshly made.