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This dessert changed our summer gatherings completely. The combination of crispy cinnamon-sugar chips, sweet cream cheese drizzle, and fresh berries creates an interactive dessert platter that's equal parts indulgent and refreshing. I created this recipe when looking for something different to serve at my daughter's backyard birthday party, and it's been requested at every family gathering since.
I first made these Berry Dessert Nachos when I needed something quick but impressive for unexpected guests. The way everyone gathered around the platter, reaching for just one more chip, convinced me this recipe needed to become part of our regular rotation.
Ingredients
- Flour tortillas: create the perfect crispy yet slightly chewy base
- Melted butter: helps the cinnamon sugar adhere while adding richness
- Cinnamon sugar: transforms plain tortillas into dessert worthy chips
- Fresh berries: provide natural sweetness and beautiful vibrant color
- Cream cheese: creates a tangy sweet drizzle that holds everything together
- Powdered sugar: balances the tanginess of the cream cheese
- Vanilla extract: adds warmth and depth to the cream cheese drizzle
- Milk: thins the cream cheese mixture to the perfect drizzling consistency
- White chocolate chips: add pops of sweetness throughout the dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the tortilla chips:
- Cut your flour tortillas into wedges like a pizza. Arrange them in a single layer on a parchment lined baking sheet. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Brush each wedge generously with melted butter, ensuring the edges get coated too. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly over all pieces. The sugar will caramelize slightly while baking, creating a delicious crust.
- Bake to perfection:
- Slide the prepared tortillas into your preheated 375°F oven. Watch them carefully after about 6 minutes as they can go from perfectly golden to burnt quickly. You want them crisp around the edges but still slightly pliable in the center. Once golden brown, remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet. They will continue to crisp as they cool.
- Prepare the cream cheese drizzle:
- While the chips cool, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until completely incorporated. Gradually add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach a pourable consistency that will hold its shape slightly when drizzled. The perfect consistency should coat the back of a spoon but flow off in a steady stream.
- Assemble your nacho platter:
- Arrange the cooled cinnamon chips in an overlapping pattern on a serving platter. Scatter fresh berries generously over the chips, distributing them evenly so every bite gets some fruit. Using a spoon or piping bag, drizzle the cream cheese mixture back and forth across the entire platter. Finish with a sprinkle of white chocolate chips if desired.
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The cinnamon sugar chips are truly what makes this dessert special. I discovered that letting the chips cool completely before topping them is crucial to maintaining their crispness. My grandmother always said cinnamon was the secret to making any dessert memorable, and these chips prove her right every time.
Make Ahead Options
The cinnamon sugar chips can be made up to three days in advance when stored in an airtight container. Just be sure they've cooled completely before storing to prevent condensation that would soften them. The cream cheese drizzle can also be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Warm it slightly by leaving it at room temperature for 20 minutes, then stir well before using. For the freshest presentation, always cut and add berries just before serving.
Seasonal Variations
While summer berries create the classic version of this recipe, you can adapt it year round using seasonal fruits. In fall, try diced apples tossed with a hint of cinnamon and caramel drizzle instead of cream cheese. Winter versions work beautifully with citrus segments and pomegranate arils. Spring brings strawberries and rhubarb compote possibilities. The cinnamon chips provide a versatile base for whatever fruits are at their peak.
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Kid Friendly Cooking Project
This recipe makes a wonderful cooking project to do with children. Little ones can help brush the tortillas with butter and sprinkle cinnamon sugar. Older kids can measure ingredients for the cream cheese drizzle and arrange berries on the platter. The immediate reward of enjoying their creation makes this an engaging way to introduce children to baking. My eight year old now proudly makes the cinnamon chips entirely on her own while I prepare the toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use store-bought chips for this dish?
Yes, store-bought cinnamon-sugar chips work well as a time-saving option for this dish.
- → What fruits can I substitute for the berries?
You can use blackberries, bananas, kiwi, or any seasonal fresh fruits that pair well with sweet flavors.
- → How do I store leftover nachos?
It's best to enjoy them immediately but you can store the chips separately in an airtight container and refrigerate the cream cheese drizzle. Reassemble when ready to serve.
- → Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
You can bake the chips and prepare the cream cheese drizzle in advance, but assemble and serve just before eating to keep the chips crispy.
- → What can I add to make this dish more indulgent?
You could top the nachos with whipped cream, ice cream, or chocolate drizzle for an extra indulgent treat.