Is there anything more tempting than a crispy, golden-brown roll filled with sweet cream cheese and juicy cherries? These Easy Cherry Cream Cheese Rolls are the perfect sweet treat, snack, or even a fun dessert. But let’s be honest, the frustration of filling oozing out during frying can quickly take the joy out of cooking. Fear not! This recipe includes a simple, yet effective trick to prevent those pesky leaks, guaranteeing perfect, delicious rolls every single time. Get ready to enjoy a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more!
Why You’ll Love These Cherry Cream Cheese Rolls
These aren’t just any fried rolls; they’re a guaranteed success! Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
- Leak-Proof Guarantee: Say goodbye to messy frying and hello to perfectly contained fillings.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is surprisingly simple, perfect for beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike.
- Deliciously Addictive: The combination of creamy filling and crispy wrapper is simply irresistible.
- Quick Dessert Fix: These rolls come together in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for satisfying sudden cravings.
Gathering Your Ingredients for Cherry Cream Cheese Rolls
The secret to exceptional Cherry Cream Cheese Rolls lies in the quality and balance of the ingredients. We’re aiming for a creamy, sweet, and slightly tangy filling, encased in a perfectly crisp and golden shell. Here’s what you’ll need, with a few notes on why each ingredient is important and how to choose the best.
- 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened: The base of our luscious filling! Make sure your cream cheese is truly softened. This will ensure a smooth, lump-free mixture. Full-fat cream cheese delivers the best flavor and texture.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Just a touch of sweetness to enhance the cream cheese filling. You can use caster sugar if you prefer a finer texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: A key flavor enhancer that adds warmth and depth to the filling. Use pure vanilla extract for the best results.
- 1 cup cherry pie filling or fruit preserves: The star of the show! Cherry pie filling provides a classic sweet and tart flavor, but feel free to experiment with other fruit preserves like raspberry or blueberry.
- 8 egg roll wrappers, standard size: These wrappers create the perfect crispy exterior. Look for wrappers that are smooth and pliable, without any cracks or tears.
- 2 cups vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying: We need a neutral-tasting oil with a high smoke point for frying. Vegetable or canola oil works perfectly. Ensure you have enough oil to deep-fry the rolls properly.
- Water or egg wash, for sealing: This is crucial for preventing leaks! A simple water wash works well, but an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water) will provide a slightly richer color and even better seal.
Crafting Your Cherry Cream Cheese Rolls: Step-by-Step
Now for the fun part! Follow these simple steps to create perfect, leak-free Cherry Cream Cheese Rolls. Don’t be intimidated – this recipe is easier than it looks. The key is to take your time and pay attention to the details, especially the sealing technique. The steps below are more than just a list, they also include the “why” behind certain techniques, visual cues, and point out common pitfalls to avoid along the way.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer or a whisk until completely smooth and creamy. This ensures an even distribution of flavor and a delightful texture. Don’t overbeat, as this can make the mixture too thin.
- Set Up Your Workstation: Lay one egg roll wrapper flat on a clean, dry surface. Position it with a corner pointing towards you, like a diamond. This orientation makes folding easier and more consistent.
- Add the Cream Cheese Filling: Place about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture slightly below the center of the wrapper. Avoid placing the filling directly in the center to allow for easier folding and sealing.
- Add the Cherry Pie Filling: Place about 1 tablespoon of the cherry pie filling directly on top of or next to the cream cheese mixture. Important Leak Prevention Step: Do not overfill the wrapper! This is the single most important step to prevent leaks. Leave at least 1/2 inch of space around all the edges.
- Fold the Bottom Corner: Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper up and over the filling, tucking it in slightly. This creates a secure base for the roll.
- Fold the Sides: Fold the left and right corners inward, over the center of the filling, creating an envelope shape. Press gently to seal the edges. This step further contains the filling and prevents it from escaping during frying.
- Seal the Top Edge: Lightly brush the top remaining corner edge of the wrapper with water or egg wash. This acts as a glue, ensuring a tight seal and preventing leaks. Make sure to apply the water or egg wash evenly.
- Roll it Up: Roll the filled wrapper tightly from the bottom up towards the top corner. As you roll, ensure the sides are tucked in firmly. The moisture on the top corner will seal the roll completely. This creates a tight, secure package that will hold its shape during frying. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- Heat the Oil: In a medium pot or deep skillet, heat the vegetable or canola oil over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of wrapper into the oil. If it sizzles and turns golden brown in about 30 seconds, the oil is ready.
- Fry the Rolls: Carefully add 2-3 rolls to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy rolls. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on the rolls to prevent burning.
- Drain the Excess Oil: Remove the fried rolls with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This helps to keep the rolls crispy and less greasy.
- Cool and Serve: Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. The filling will be very hot immediately after frying!
Tips for Perfect Cherry Cream Cheese Rolls Every Time
Want to take your Cherry Cream Cheese Rolls to the next level? Here are a few extra tips and tricks to ensure perfect results every time:
- Don’t Overfill: This is the most crucial step for preventing leaks. Less is more!
- Seal Tightly: Make sure all edges are sealed properly to prevent the filling from escaping.
- Fry at the Right Temperature: Frying at the correct oil temperature is essential for achieving a crispy, golden-brown exterior. Too low, and the rolls will be soggy. Too high, and they will burn.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many rolls at once will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy rolls. Work in batches.
- Get Creative with Fillings: Experiment with different fruit preserves, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar in the cream cheese mixture. If you’re in the mood for a different kind of sweet treat, perhaps these easy caramel nut dessert jars would satisfy that sweet craving.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. This is great for parties!
What to Serve With Cherry Cream Cheese Rolls
These Cherry Cream Cheese Rolls are delicious on their own, but here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your experience:
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.
- Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of chocolate sauce takes these rolls to decadent territory.
- Serve with a Scoop of Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream is the perfect complement to the warm, crispy rolls.
- Pair with Coffee or Tea: These rolls make a delightful accompaniment to your morning coffee or afternoon tea. For another satisfying pairing with coffee, consider baking this easy delicious chocolate sheet cake for sharing with friends and family.
Your Cherry Cream Cheese Rolls Questions Answered (FAQ)
Can I use different types of fruit filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite fruit preserves, such as raspberry, blueberry, or apple. Just make sure the filling isn’t too runny. Avoid overfilling to prevent the filling from leaking out. If you prefer a thicker filling, consider adding a teaspoon of cornstarch to your fruit of choice before assembling the rolls.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
While frying gives the rolls their signature crispy texture, you can bake them for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Place the prepared rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Brushing them with melted butter before baking will enhance the browning. Be aware that the texture will be slightly different; they won’t be quite as crispy as the fried version.
How do I store leftover Cherry Cream Cheese Rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for a few minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a crispier result.
Can I freeze these rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the un fried rolls! Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen rolls to a freezer bag or airtight container and store for up to 2 months. When ready to fry, there’s no need to thaw; just add a minute or two to the frying time.
Enjoy Your Homemade Cherry Cream Cheese Rolls!
There you have it – a simple, foolproof recipe for irresistibly delicious and leak-proof Cherry Cream Cheese Rolls! With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of folding magic, you can create a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, get ready to fry, and prepare to be amazed. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let us know how yours turned out. Happy rolling!
Easy Cherry & Cream Cheese Rolls (Stops Filling Leaks!)
Ingredients
- 8 ounce block cream cheese softened
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup cherry pie filling or fruit preserves
- 8 egg roll wrappers standard size
- 2 cups vegetable oil or canola oil for frying
- Water or egg wash for sealing
Directions
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth.
- Lay one egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface with a corner pointing towards you (like a diamond).
- Place about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture slightly below the center of the wrapper.
- Place about 1 tablespoon of the cherry pie filling directly on top of or next to the cream cheese mixture. *Important Leak Prevention Step*: Do not overfill the wrapper. Leave plenty of space around the edges.
- Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper up over the filling.
- Fold the left and right corners inward over the center, making an envelope shape.
- Lightly brush the top remaining corner edge with water or egg wash.
- Roll the filled wrapper tightly from the bottom up to the top corner. Ensure the sides are tucked in firmly as you roll. The moisture on the top corner will seal the roll completely, preventing leaks. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
- Heat the vegetable or canola oil in a medium pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350 degrees F. If you don’t have a thermometer, a small piece of wrapper will sizzle and turn golden brown in about 30 seconds.
- Carefully add 2-3 rolls to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the fried rolls with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Let cool slightly before serving.