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Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls

 

Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup cherry pie filling

For the Egg Rolls:

  • 12 egg roll wrappers
  • 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Topping:

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • Chocolate sauce or additional cherry pie filling, for serving

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Filling:
    • In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
    • Gently fold in the cherry pie filling until well combined. Set aside.
  2. Assemble the Egg Rolls:
    • Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you (diamond shape).
    • Place about 2 tablespoons of the cherry cream cheese filling in the center of the wrapper.
    • Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll up tightly into a cylinder shape.
    • Brush the top corner with the beaten egg to seal the egg roll. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
  3. Heat the Oil:
    • In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
  4. Fry the Egg Rolls:
    • Carefully place a few egg rolls in the hot oil, seam side down, without overcrowding the pan.
    • Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to turn them gently.
    • Once cooked, remove from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  5. Serve:
    • Dust the fried egg rolls generously with powdered sugar.
    • Serve warm with chocolate sauce or additional cherry pie filling on the side for dipping.

Nutritional Information:

  • Calories: 200 kcal per egg roll
  • Servings: Makes 12 egg rolls

Tips for Success:

  • Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
  • Seal the egg rolls tightly with the beaten egg to prevent them from opening during frying.
  • Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) to achieve crispy egg rolls.
  • Serve immediately after frying for the best texture and flavor.

Enjoy these Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls as a delightful dessert or sweet snack, perfect for any occasion!

Here are some helpful tips to make your Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls even more delightful:

  1. Use Quality Ingredients:
    • Use good quality cream cheese and cherry pie filling for the best flavor. You can even make your own cherry pie filling for a fresher taste.
  2. Adjust Sweetness:
    • Taste the cream cheese filling before assembling the egg rolls. If you prefer a sweeter filling, add a bit more sugar or a touch of honey.
  3. Add Texture:
    • Consider adding texture to the filling by mixing in finely chopped nuts such as almonds or pecans. This adds crunch and complements the creamy filling.
  4. Enhance Flavor:
    • Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese filling for a warm, aromatic flavor that pairs well with the cherries.
  5. Proper Wrapping Technique:
    • Ensure the egg rolls are tightly wrapped to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying. Seal the edges well with beaten egg to secure them.
  6. Prevent Oil Absorption:
    • Before frying, make sure the oil is heated to the correct temperature (around 350°F/175°C). This prevents the egg rolls from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy.
  7. Control Frying Time:
    • Fry the egg rolls in batches and avoid overcrowding the frying pan or deep fryer. This ensures they cook evenly and become uniformly crispy.
  8. Drain Excess Oil:
    • After frying, place the egg rolls on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. This helps to keep them crispy and prevents them from becoming soggy.
  9. Serve Warm:
    • Serve the Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls warm for the best taste and texture. The contrast between the warm, crispy exterior and the creamy, fruity filling is delightful.
  10. Garnish Creatively:
    • Before serving, dust the egg rolls with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. You can also drizzle them with chocolate sauce or serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
  11. Pairing Suggestions:
    • Serve the egg rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of whipped cream for a delicious dessert experience.
  12. Make Ahead Option:
    • You can assemble the egg rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to fry. This makes them convenient for parties or gatherings.

By following these tips, you’ll enhance the flavors and textures of your Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy the crispy, creamy goodness!

Here are 40 secrets to help you master this delightful dessert:

Preparation Secrets:

  1. Soften Cream Cheese Properly: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. This makes it easier to blend into a smooth and creamy consistency.
  2. Adjust Sweetness: Taste the cream cheese filling and adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference. Some cherry pie fillings may already be sweet, so adjust accordingly.
  3. Enhance Flavor with Extracts: Add a touch of almond extract alongside vanilla extract to complement the cherry flavor. Just a few drops can enhance the overall taste.
  4. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh cherry pie filling or make your own for a more vibrant and natural cherry flavor. Fresh ingredients can elevate the taste significantly.
  5. Chill the Filling: After mixing the cream cheese and cherry pie filling, chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This helps to firm it up slightly, making it easier to handle during assembly.

Assembly Secrets:

  1. Proper Wrapping Technique: Lay the egg roll wrappers on a clean surface and ensure they are dry. Place the filling in the center, leaving space around the edges to seal properly.
  2. Seal Well: Use a beaten egg or a cornstarch slurry to seal the edges of the egg roll wrappers tightly. Press firmly to ensure there are no gaps where the filling could leak out during frying.
  3. Avoid Overfilling: Use just enough filling to create a generous but manageable amount inside each egg roll. Overfilling can cause the egg rolls to burst open during frying.
  4. Secure the Ends: Fold the corners of the egg roll wrapper tightly over the filling, then roll up tightly. Ensure all edges are securely sealed to prevent oil from seeping in.
  5. Shape Uniformly: Aim for uniform shapes and sizes for consistent cooking. Evenly shaped egg rolls ensure they fry evenly and look appealing.

Frying Secrets:

  1. Maintain Oil Temperature: Heat vegetable oil to around 350°F (175°C) and monitor the temperature throughout frying. Too low, and the egg rolls will absorb oil; too high, and they may burn.
  2. Use Enough Oil: Ensure there is enough oil to submerge the egg rolls completely. This ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior.
  3. Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the frying pan or fryer. Fry the egg rolls in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure they cook evenly.
  4. Turn Carefully: Use tongs or a slotted spoon to turn the egg rolls gently in the hot oil. Avoid splashing or dropping them to maintain their shape and prevent oil splatters.
  5. Golden Brown Color: Fry the egg rolls until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side depending on the oil temperature.

Finishing Touches:

  1. Drain Excess Oil: After frying, transfer the egg rolls to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. This helps to keep them crispy and prevents them from becoming greasy.
  2. Cool Slightly: Allow the egg rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and makes them easier to handle.
  3. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Generously dust the warm egg rolls with powdered sugar just before serving. This adds a sweet finishing touch and enhances their presentation.
  4. Serve Immediately: Enjoy Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls warm and fresh for the best taste and texture. The contrast between the warm filling and crispy wrapper is delightful.
  5. Garnish Creatively: Garnish with fresh mint leaves, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special presentation and flavor boost.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

  1. Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best eaten fresh but can be reheated.
  2. Reheat Carefully: Reheat Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
  3. Avoid Microwaving: Microwaving can make the egg rolls soggy. It’s best to use an oven or toaster oven for reheating.

Creative Variations:

  1. Add Nutty Crunch: Mix chopped nuts such as almonds or pecans into the cream cheese filling for added texture and flavor.
  2. Experiment with Flavors: Try different fruit pie fillings such as blueberry, apple, or peach for variety. Adjust the filling ingredients accordingly to complement the chosen fruit.
  3. Drizzle with Syrup: Instead of powdered sugar, drizzle warm maple syrup or honey over the egg rolls for a different twist on sweetness.
  4. Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar: Before serving, sprinkle the egg rolls with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a warm and comforting flavor.

Tips for Serving and Presentation:

  1. Serve with Ice Cream: Pair Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
  2. Use Decorative Plating: Arrange the egg rolls on a decorative serving platter or individual plates for an attractive presentation.
  3. Add Fresh Fruit: Serve with fresh cherries or berries on the side for a refreshing contrast.

Healthier Options:

  1. Bake Instead of Fry: For a healthier alternative, bake the egg rolls in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
  2. Use Light Cream Cheese: Substitute regular cream cheese with light cream cheese for a lower fat option.

Make-Ahead Tips:

  1. Prep Ahead: Prepare the cream cheese filling and assemble the egg rolls ahead of time. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to fry.
  2. Fry Before Serving: Fry the egg rolls just before serving to ensure they are hot and crispy.

Presentation Ideas:

  1. Serve in Mini Baskets: Present the egg rolls in small, decorative baskets lined with parchment paper for a fun and casual serving option.
  2. Top with Fresh Whipped Cream: Dollop each egg roll with a swirl of freshly whipped cream for added indulgence.

Pairing Suggestions:

  1. Coffee or Tea: Serve Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or hot tea for a delightful dessert pairing.
  2. Hot Chocolate: Enjoy with a mug of rich, creamy hot chocolate for a comforting treat.

Seasonal Twists:

  1. Holiday Flair: Dust the egg rolls with colored sugars or festive sprinkles for holiday celebrations.
  2. Summer Delight: Serve alongside a scoop of homemade vanilla bean ice cream and fresh mint for a refreshing summer dessert.

By incorporating these secrets and tips, you’ll be sure to create Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls that are perfectly crispy on the outside and delightfully creamy and flavorful on the inside, making them a memorable dessert for any occasion.

Here are some popular questions and their answers related to Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls:

  1. What are Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls?
    • Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls are a delicious dessert where a sweetened cream cheese and cherry pie filling are wrapped in egg roll wrappers, fried until crispy, and served warm.
  2. How do you make Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls?
    • To make Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls, prepare a filling with softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and cherry pie filling. Place the filling in egg roll wrappers, seal, and fry until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Can you bake Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls instead of frying?
    • Yes, you can bake Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. This is a healthier alternative to frying.
  4. What do Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls taste like?
    • Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls have a creamy and tangy cream cheese filling with a sweet cherry flavor from the cherry pie filling. The egg roll wrapper adds a crispy texture.
  5. Can you use other pie fillings for Egg Rolls?
    • Yes, you can use different pie fillings such as blueberry, apple, or peach instead of cherry pie filling to create variations of this dessert.
  6. How do you store Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls?
    • Store leftover Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
  7. How do you reheat Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls?
    • Reheat Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
  8. Are Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls vegetarian?
    • Yes, Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls are vegetarian as they do not contain any meat or animal products besides dairy (cream cheese).
  9. Can you freeze Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls?
    • It’s not recommended to freeze Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls as they may become soggy upon thawing due to the moisture content in the filling and wrapper.
  10. What can you serve with Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls?
    • Serve Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls with powdered sugar sprinkled on top, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a side of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
  11. How do you prevent Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls from leaking during frying?
    • Seal the edges of the egg roll wrappers tightly with beaten egg or a cornstarch slurry to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.
  12. Are Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls difficult to make?
    • Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls are relatively easy to make with simple ingredients. The key is to ensure the wrappers are sealed properly and fried until crispy.
  13. Can you make Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can assemble Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to fry. Fry just before serving for the best results.
  14. What’s the best oil for frying Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls?
    • Use vegetable oil or canola oil for frying Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls due to their neutral flavor and high smoke point.
  15. How do you know when Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls are done frying?
    • Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls are done frying when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, usually taking about 2-3 minutes per side in hot oil.
  16. Can Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls be served cold?
    • Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls are best served warm to enjoy their crispy texture and melty filling. Serving them cold may affect their taste and texture.
  17. Are Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls gluten-free?
    • No, Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls are not gluten-free as they are made with egg roll wrappers which contain wheat flour. Look for gluten-free wrappers if needed.
  18. How many calories are in Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls?
    • The calorie count can vary, but typically each Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Roll may contain around 200 calories, depending on the size and frying method.
  19. Can you air fry Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls?
    • Yes, you can air fry Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls by spraying them lightly with oil and cooking them in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.
  20. Can you make Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls without cream cheese?
    • Cream cheese is a key ingredient for the creamy filling in Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls. However, you could experiment with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if desired.
  21. How do you make Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls crispy?
    • To make Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls crispy, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying, and fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
  22. What’s a good dipping sauce for Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls?
    • Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls can be served with a variety of dipping sauces such as chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or even a simple vanilla glaze.
  23. How long do Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls stay crispy?
    • Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls will stay crispy for a short time after frying. To maintain crispiness, serve them immediately or reheat briefly in the oven.
  24. Can you make Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls in an electric skillet?
    • Yes, you can make Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls in an electric skillet by heating oil to the proper temperature and frying them in batches.
  25. What can I substitute for cherry pie filling in Egg Rolls?
    • You can substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit pie fillings such as blueberry, apple, or peach depending on your preference.
  26. How do you make Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls less sweet?
    • Reduce the amount of sugar in the cream cheese filling or use a less sweetened cherry pie filling to adjust the sweetness level.
  27. Can you make Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls with fresh cherries?
    • Yes, you can use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling. Simply pit and chop the cherries, sweeten them to taste, and use as the filling.
  28. How do you make Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls without eggs?
    • Use a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with water) to seal the edges of the egg roll wrappers instead of using beaten eggs.
  29. How do you make Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls vegan?
    • To make vegan Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls, use dairy-free cream cheese and ensure the egg roll wrappers are vegan-friendly. Check all ingredients for animal products.
  30. Can you make Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls with phyllo dough?
    • Yes, you can use phyllo dough instead of egg roll wrappers for a different texture. Layer the phyllo sheets with the filling and bake or fry as desired.

These answers cover a range of common questions about Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls, helping you understand how to prepare, serve, and customize this delightful dessert.