Fried Cream Cheese Rolls Recipe
If you’ve never tried Fried Cream Cheese Rolls, you’re in for an outrageously delicious treat that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Imagine crispy, golden wrappers filled with rich, creamy cheese—perfect as a sweet dessert rolled in powdered sugar or a savory snack paired with your favorite dipping sauce. These rolls are easy to make, endlessly customizable, and absolutely irresistible whether you serve them as a party appetizer or a late-night indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Fried Cream Cheese Rolls lies in their simplicity. Every ingredient brings something special—whether it’s the smooth creaminess of the cheese or the satisfying crunch of the wrapper. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few tips for getting the best results.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): The star of the show—use full-fat cream cheese for the richest, creamiest filling.
- Powdered Sugar (2 tbsp, optional, for sweet version): Adds a touch of sweetness and a silky texture if you’re making a dessert version.
- Vanilla Extract (1/2 tsp, for sweet version): Gives the sweet rolls a warm, aromatic boost that’s simply divine.
- Egg Roll Wrappers (6–8): These fry up beautifully crisp and hold the filling perfectly—look for them in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores.
- Egg (1, beaten, for sealing): Acts as edible glue to keep your rolls tightly sealed as they fry.
- Vegetable Oil (for frying): Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point for the crispiest exterior.
- Optional Toppings: Powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or chocolate drizzle for sweet versions; green onions or dipping sauce for savory versions let you personalize each bite.
How to Make Fried Cream Cheese Rolls
Step 1: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
Start by softening your cream cheese to room temperature, which helps it mix up super smooth. If you’re making the sweet version, stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is creamy and luscious. For a savory spin, try folding in chopped green onions, garlic powder, or your favorite herbs to amp up the flavor.
Step 2: Fill and Shape the Rolls
Lay your egg roll wrappers flat on a clean work surface. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of your cream cheese filling onto the center of each wrapper, shaping it gently into a small log. Fold in the sides to keep everything contained, then roll it up tightly into a neat cylinder, sealing the edge with a little beaten egg to make sure nothing escapes during frying.
Step 3: Fry to Crispy Perfection
In a deep skillet, heat about an inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the rolls into the hot oil, seam-side down, and fry them in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side. You’re looking for that perfect golden color and a satisfying crunch. Don’t overcrowd the pan—give each roll some space to get beautifully crisp.
Step 4: Drain and Cool
Once your Fried Cream Cheese Rolls are gorgeously golden, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil. Let them cool just a bit before serving; the filling will be molten hot straight from the fryer, but you want to enjoy every creamy, crispy bite without burning your tongue.
Step 5: Add Your Finishing Touches
Now for the fun part! If you’re making the sweet version, dust the rolls generously with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar, or drizzle them with melted chocolate for an extra decadent treat. For savory rolls, a sprinkle of sliced green onions or a side of your favorite dipping sauce takes them over the top.
How to Serve Fried Cream Cheese Rolls
Garnishes
The right garnish can elevate Fried Cream Cheese Rolls from simple to spectacular. Try a snowfall of powdered sugar or a cinnamon-sugar blend for dessert versions, or scatter thinly sliced green onions for a savory punch. A little sprinkle or drizzle goes a long way in adding flavor and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Pair your rolls with a fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for sweet versions. For savory types, crunchy slaw, pickled veggies, or a simple cucumber salad add color and balance. Dipping sauces like sweet chili, spicy mayo, or soy sauce are always crowd-pleasers.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Fried Cream Cheese Rolls on a platter lined with banana leaves or festive paper for parties, or stack them upright in a glass for a fun, modern twist. For dessert, arrange them in a circle with a bowl of chocolate sauce in the center for dipping. Get creative—these rolls are meant to impress!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Fried Cream Cheese Rolls, pop them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. They’ll stay tasty for up to 3 days, though they’re always best enjoyed fresh and crispy.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the rolls but don’t fry them yet. Lay them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, fry straight from frozen—just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time for the perfect crunch.
Reheating
For the crispiest results, reheat Fried Cream Cheese Rolls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave, which can make them soggy. An air fryer works great too, restoring that irresistibly crunchy shell.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls up to 4 hours before frying and keep them covered in the fridge. This makes party prep a total breeze and ensures you’ll have fresh, hot rolls ready when you need them.
What are the best dipping sauces for Fried Cream Cheese Rolls?
Sweet versions pair beautifully with chocolate or berry sauces, while savory rolls shine with sweet chili sauce, spicy mayo, or soy dipping sauces. Feel free to experiment and find your own favorite!
Can I bake instead of fry them?
Yes, you can bake the rolls at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’ll be less crispy than fried, but still delicious and a bit lighter.
How can I make these gluten-free?
If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free egg roll or spring roll wrappers at specialty stores. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free, so just swap the wrapper and you’re good to go.
What else can I put in the filling?
Get creative! Try folding in fruit preserves, mini chocolate chips, jalapeños, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs. Fried Cream Cheese Rolls are the perfect blank canvas for all kinds of flavor adventures.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Fried Cream Cheese Rolls enough—you’ll be amazed at how easy and fun they are to make, and how quickly they disappear! Whether you go sweet or savory, these little bites are guaranteed to bring smiles and requests for the recipe. Give them a try and let your taste buds celebrate!
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Fried Cream Cheese Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully crispy fried cream cheese rolls that can be customized as sweet or savory appetizers or desserts. Soft cream cheese filling wrapped in crunchy egg roll wrappers and fried to golden perfection, these rolls are quick to prepare and sure to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for sweet version)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for sweet version)
Wrapper and Seal
- 6–8 egg roll wrappers
- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil, enough for about 1 inch depth
Optional Toppings and Serving
- Powdered sugar (for sweet version)
- Cinnamon sugar (for sweet version)
- Chocolate drizzle (for sweet version)
- Chopped green onions (for savory version)
- Dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or spicy mayo (for savory version)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract if making a sweet version. For savory, leave the cream cheese plain or add chopped green onions, garlic powder, or herbs to taste.
- Assemble the Rolls: Lay out the egg roll wrappers on a clean surface. Place about 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each wrapper and shape it into a small log. Fold in the sides, then roll tightly into a cylinder, sealing the edge with beaten egg to ensure they don’t open during frying.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet to about 1 inch depth and heat over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Be careful to maintain the temperature for even frying.
- Fry the Rolls: Carefully place the rolls seam-side down in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Cool: Remove the rolls with a slotted spoon and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Let them cool slightly before serving to prevent burns.
- Add Toppings and Serve: For sweet rolls, dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar, or drizzle with chocolate. For savory rolls, serve with dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or spicy mayo, and garnish with green onions if desired.
Notes
- Prepare the rolls ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before frying to save time.
- Experiment with variations by adding fruit preserves, jalapeños, or fresh herbs to the cream cheese mixture for different flavor profiles.
- Ensure the oil temperature remains steady at 350°F for best frying results and to avoid greasy rolls.
- Use fresh egg roll wrappers to avoid cracking and ensure a crispy exterior.
- If making sweet rolls, adjust powdered sugar quantity to your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer or Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
