Easy Crispy Golden Cheesecake Bites (Print version)
Bite-size cheesecake cubes coated in panko and fried until golden, with warm creamy centers and a crisp shell.
# Ingredients:
For the cheesecake bites
01 -
1 pre-made cheesecake, about 24 oz (680 g), well chilled
02 -
1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
03 -
2 large eggs, beaten
04 -
2 cups (120 g) panko breadcrumbs
05 -
1/4 teaspoon fine salt
06 -
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, optional
07 -
6 cups (1.4 L) vegetable oil, or enough for 2 inches in the pot
For serving
08 -
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
09 -
1/2 cup (120 ml) strawberry, chocolate, caramel, or raspberry sauce
# Instructions:
01 -
Cut the chilled cheesecake into about 24 bite-size cubes. If the pieces feel soft, freeze them on a parchment-lined tray for 30 minutes before coating.
02 -
Place flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in a second bowl, and panko mixed with salt and optional cinnamon in a third bowl.
03 -
Coat each cheesecake cube in flour, dip it in egg, then press it into the panko until fully covered. Place coated cubes back on the tray.
04 -
Pour oil into a heavy pot to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat to 350°F (175°C). Adjust the burner to keep the oil close to that temperature.
05 -
Fry 5-6 bites at a time for 2-3 minutes, turning once, until crisp and deep golden. Transfer to a rack or paper towels to drain.
06 -
Dust the warm bites with powdered sugar and serve right away with strawberry, chocolate, caramel, or raspberry sauce for dipping.
# Good to know:
01 -
Best served warm within 10 minutes of frying.
02 -
Freeze soft cheesecake cubes briefly before coating for cleaner edges.
03 -
Makes about 24 bites, or 6 servings.