If you have a sweet tooth and love a fun twist on classic treats, this Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine biting into a crisp, golden egg roll wrapper that gives way to a luscious blend of tangy cream cheese and vibrant cherry filling, perfectly balanced with a touch of lemon zest and vanilla. It’s a simple yet show-stopping dessert that brings together textures and flavors in the most delightful way. Whether you’re serving these at a party or indulging in a cozy night treat, this Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls Recipe is pure joy wrapped up in a crispy shell.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, each playing a crucial role in delivering the perfect taste and texture. From fresh cherries adding that juicy burst of flavor to cream cheese creating a smooth, tangy base, every element helps make this dessert uniquely irresistible.
- Fresh cherries (2 cups): The star of the cherry filling, providing natural sweetness and a gorgeous color.
- Sugar (⅓ cup + ⅓ cup): Adds sweetness to both the cherry filling and cream cheese mixture for balanced flavor.
- Fresh lemon zest (1 tablespoon): Brightens up the cherry filling with a refreshing citrus kick.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor and gives a subtle tang to both fillings.
- Water (7 tablespoons, divided): Helps to cook down the cherries and activate the cornstarch thickener.
- Cornstarch (3 tablespoons): Thickens the cherry filling perfectly, so it’s luscious but not runny.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Provides the creamy, rich base that balances the tart cherry filling.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the cream cheese mixture.
- Egg roll wrappers (12): Crisp shells that hold everything together with a satisfying crunch.
- Vegetable oil (2+ cups): Essential for frying to golden perfection.
- Powdered sugar (¼ cup): The final sweet dusting that makes these egg rolls irresistible to look at and taste.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Filling
Start by heating fresh cherries with sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and 3 tablespoons of water in a saucepan over medium heat. Once it comes to a boil, let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the cherries to soften and release their juices. Then mix cornstarch with the remaining water to make a slurry and stir it into the cherry mixture. Continue cooking while stirring until it thickens to a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and let it cool completely – this luscious cherry filling is what gives the egg rolls their fruity punch.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
While the cherry filling cools, beat softened cream cheese in a medium bowl using a hand mixer until fluffy and smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, then beat for an additional 2 minutes. This creamy mixture will perfectly complement the tartness of the cherries and add a velvety texture inside those crunchy egg rolls.
Step 3: Assemble the Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls Recipe
Lay out the egg roll wrappers and place a couple tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each wrapper, followed by a heaping spoonful of the cherry filling on top. Use your finger dipped in water to moisten the edges of the wrapper, which helps seal the egg roll tightly. Fold in the sides over the filling, then roll from the front edge towards the back, making sure it’s snugly wrapped to avoid leaks during frying.
Step 4: Fry the Egg Rolls
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry the egg rolls in batches, giving them a few minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Once done, transfer the egg rolls to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. These crispy pockets of creamy cherry goodness are almost ready to devour!
Step 5: Finishing Touch
Before serving, sprinkle the egg rolls with powdered sugar for a pretty, sweet finish that adds just the right amount of extra sweetness and visual appeal. Now you have a dessert that looks as delightful as it tastes!
How to Serve Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar is classic, but for extra flair, try a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds. Fresh mint leaves add a burst of color and freshness that pairs beautifully with the tart cherry filling.
Side Dishes
These egg rolls are amazing on their own, but serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream will take your dessert experience to another level. For a sophisticated touch, a small bowl of warm raspberry sauce or a drizzle of chocolate ganache can complement the flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the egg rolls on a decorative platter lined with parchment paper and sprinkle powdered sugar right before serving. Try stacking them like a dessert tower for a party or cut them diagonally and serve bite-sized pieces with toothpicks for easy sharing. They’re guaranteed to be a conversation starter!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the cooled egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the crispiness may soften with time, but the flavors will remain delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze the un-fried assembled egg rolls by placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, fry them straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
Reheating
To bring back the crispy texture, reheat leftover or frozen cooked egg rolls in a 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the wrapper soggy. This way, your Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls Recipe will taste fresh and satisfyingly crunchy every time.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work well in this recipe; just thaw and drain them before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which could make the filling too runny.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You could try mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a different flavor and texture, but cream cheese provides the perfect tang and creaminess that balances the cherries best.
Is there a way to make these egg rolls healthier?
For a lighter version, bake the egg rolls in the oven at 400 degrees for about 15 minutes, turning halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy as the fried version but still delicious!
Can I prepare these ahead of time for a party?
Yes! Assemble them in advance and keep refrigerated for a few hours, then fry or bake right before serving to enjoy warm, crispy egg rolls.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during frying?
Make sure to thoroughly seal the edges of the egg roll wrapper with water and avoid overfilling the egg rolls. Tight sealing and moderate filling ensure the best results.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls Recipe is a delightful treat that brings together the best of crispy, creamy, and fruity in every bite. Whether you’re new to making egg rolls at home or looking for a fresh, fun dessert, this recipe is a wonderfully rewarding one to try. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing these as much as I love eating them!
PrintCherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls Recipe
Delight in these Cherry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls, a crispy and sweet treat combining fresh cherry filling with a smooth cream cheese blend wrapped in golden, fried egg roll wrappers. Perfect for dessert or a special snack, this recipe delivers a fruity, creamy, and crunchy experience that is sure to impress your family and guests.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 egg rolls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Cherry Filling
- 2 cups fresh cherries
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 7 tablespoons water (divided)
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 ounces softened cream cheese
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Egg Rolls and Frying
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- 2+ cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare Cherry Filling: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, sugar, 3 tablespoons of water, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir and bring to a boil, then cook for 3-4 minutes until the cherries soften.
- Thicken Cherry Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the remaining 4 tablespoons of water with cornstarch until smooth. Add this to the cherry mixture and stir continuously until it thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
- Make Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract and continue beating for another 2 minutes until fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble Egg Rolls: Place an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface. Add 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture in the center, then top with a heaping spoonful of cherry filling. Dip your finger in water and moisten the edges of the wrapper to help seal it.
- Fold Egg Rolls: Fold in the sides tightly over the filling, then roll the bottom edge up and over the filling, pressing to seal the egg roll completely.
- Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry Egg Rolls: Carefully place a few egg rolls into the hot oil, frying for several minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Cool: Remove the egg rolls and transfer them onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil and cool slightly.
- Serve: Just before serving, dust the egg rolls with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Notes
- Be careful not to overfill the egg rolls to prevent them from bursting during frying.
- Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature (375°F) for even cooking and to avoid greasy egg rolls.
- Use fresh cherries for the best flavor, but frozen cherries (thawed) can be a substitute.
- These egg rolls are best served warm but can be reheated in an oven or air fryer for crispness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat before serving.