Introduction
Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, crispy pie filled with a rich, creamy strawberry cheesecake center. These Deep Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Pies are the ultimate indulgence, perfect for a fun dessert or a special treat. With a delightful crunch on the outside and a burst of strawberry goodness inside, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds (or thirds!). They’re so simple to make, and the results are absolutely divine!
Ingredients
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 package pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Oil for frying
- Whipped cream for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 8 pies
Directions and Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped strawberries, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to blend everything until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pie crusts. Cut them into circles, approximately 4 inches in diameter—this is where the magic will happen!
- Place a generous tablespoon of the luscious strawberry cheesecake filling in the center of each pie crust circle, making sure to leave enough space around the edges for sealing.
- Fold each crust over to form a delightful half-moon shape. Press the edges tightly with a fork to seal in all that delicious filling.
- Prepare for frying by setting up a dredging station: one bowl filled with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the final bowl with breadcrumbs.
- Take each pie and first dip it into the flour, ensuring it’s lightly coated. Next, immerse it in the beaten eggs, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs until it’s fully coated for that perfect crunch.
- In a deep fryer or a large pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). You want it hot enough to create that beautiful golden brown crust.
- Carefully fry the pies in batches for about 2-3 minutes, or until they become a gorgeous golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them; you want them perfect!
- Once fried, remove the pies from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve these little delights warm with a generous side of whipped cream for dipping. Enjoy every gooey, crispy moment!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to swap out the strawberries for other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor twist.
- For a fun addition, sprinkle some cinnamon into the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying; this helps the pies cook evenly and remain crispy.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves deep frying, which creates a wonderfully crispy exterior. To achieve the perfect fry, ensure your oil temperature is monitored using a kitchen thermometer. Additionally, dredging the pies in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs not only creates a crunchy texture but also seals in the rich filling, keeping it all intact during frying.
FAQ
- Can I make these pies ahead of time? While they are best served fresh, you can prepare the filling and assemble the pies a few hours ahead. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry.
- Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes! If you prefer a lighter option, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
- What can I serve with these pies? Besides whipped cream, you can serve them with chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Conclusion
These Deep Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Pies are an irresistible way to satisfy your sweet tooth. With their crispy exterior and creamy, fruity filling, they bring joy to any gathering. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become a go-to dessert in your repertoire. So grab some friends, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this delightful homemade treat. You won’t regret it!