Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches

Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches are an indulgent dessert that combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the sweet, fruity burst of strawberries, all wrapped up in a crispy, golden coating. These sandwiches are a playful and decadent twist on a classic favorite, and they’re perfect for when I want to wow my guests or treat myself to something special. The warm, fried crust gives way to a rich, creamy cheesecake filling with a sweet strawberry topping—pure bliss in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What I love about these Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches is the irresistible combination of creamy, tangy cheesecake filling and fresh, juicy strawberries, all encased in a crispy, golden crust. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the smooth, sweet filling is absolutely perfect. It’s a dessert that feels like a treat and is so much fun to make. Plus, it’s an easy way to enjoy the flavors of strawberry cheesecake in a unique and fun format, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a party, a special family gathering, or just because.

Ingredients

• 8 slices of thick white bread (preferably day-old bread for better texture)

• 1 cup cream cheese, softened

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

• 1/4 cup strawberry jam or preserves

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers (for coating)

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for coating)

• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

2. Spread a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture onto four slices of bread.

3. Layer the sliced strawberries on top of the cream cheese mixture and drizzle a little strawberry jam over them.

4. Top with the remaining slices of bread to form sandwiches.

5. In a shallow bowl, whisk the beaten egg. In another shallow bowl, combine the flour, crushed graham crackers, and granulated sugar.

6. Carefully dip each sandwich first into the egg, coating both sides, and then dredge it in the graham cracker mixture, making sure the sandwich is fully coated.

7. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry each sandwich for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

8. Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

9. Slice the sandwiches into halves or quarters and serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh strawberries or powdered sugar if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 sandwiches, serving about 4 people. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to fry, so the total time is around 25-30 minutes. It’s quick to make but feels like an extra special treat.

Variations

• Berry Mix: For a different twist, I can use a mix of berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries in place of the strawberries for a fruity variety.

• Chocolate Drizzle: If I want to make it even more indulgent, I can drizzle melted chocolate over the fried sandwiches or sprinkle chocolate chips inside the sandwich before frying.

• Nutty Coating: Instead of graham cracker crumbs, I can use crushed nuts like almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts for a crunchy, nutty coating that pairs beautifully with the sweet filling.

• Fried Cheesecake Bites: I can also cut the sandwiches into smaller pieces to create fried cheesecake bites that are easier to serve at parties or gatherings.

Storage/Reheating

These Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches are best enjoyed immediately after frying while the coating is crispy and the filling is creamy. However, if I have leftovers, I can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. To reheat, I can place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore some crispness. They can also be lightly reheated in a skillet for a couple of minutes on each side.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, I can use frozen strawberries, but I should make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make the sandwiches soggy. Fresh strawberries will give the best texture, but frozen can work if prepared properly.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, I can use other types of bread like brioche, challah, or even whole wheat bread. Thicker bread like brioche or challah will give the sandwiches a richer, sweeter flavor and a more luxurious texture.

Can I make the cream cheese filling ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the cream cheese filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will save time when I’m ready to assemble the sandwiches.

Can I bake these sandwiches instead of frying?

If I prefer a lighter option, I can bake the sandwiches instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the sandwiches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Can I use a different filling?

Absolutely! If I don’t want to use strawberries, I can substitute with other fruits like sliced bananas, blueberries, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for a different flavor profile. The cream cheese filling will pair well with many different options.

Conclusion

Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches are an irresistible treat that combines the best parts of cheesecake and fried desserts into one deliciously indulgent package. With their golden, crispy crust and creamy, fruity filling, these sandwiches are a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether I’m serving them at a party or enjoying them as a sweet treat, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time.