Who said egg rolls can’t be a dessert? These Cheesecake Egg Rolls combine a silky cheesecake filling with a crisp, golden wrapper rolled in cinnamon sugar. The result is a portable, indulgent treat that tastes like a bite-sized slice of cheesecake.
The charm of these cheesecake egg rolls is the contrast of textures: a smooth, creamy center and a satisfyingly crunchy exterior. They’re simple enough to make at home and versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings.
These portable desserts are crisp on the outside with a sweet, creamy center—perfect for parties, snacks, or a casual dessert.
Dessert Egg Rolls
Most people associate egg rolls with savory fillings like pork, shrimp, and cabbage. This recipe flips that idea into a sweet version using a classic cheesecake-flavored filling wrapped in egg roll wrappers and fried until golden. The finished treats are convenient to eat on the go and make a delightful addition to any dessert spread.
Why You’ll Love These Cream Cheese Egg Rolls
- They taste like cheesecake in a crunchy, bite-sized form.
- Simple ingredients and quick prep make them easy to assemble.
- They’re adaptable—swap toppings or add fruit for variety.
Ingredients Needed to Make Cheesecake Egg Rolls
Gather the following ingredients before you begin:
- Cream cheese – one 8-ounce package (full-fat recommended for best texture)
- Sugar – granulated sugar for the filling
- Lemon juice – a small amount to brighten the filling
- Egg roll wrappers – store-bought wrappers make assembly quick
Also have vanilla, a pinch of salt, water for sealing the wrappers, sugar and cinnamon for the coating, and oil for frying. Optional serving items include caramel, chocolate, chopped strawberries, or powdered sugar.
Common Questions
What type of cream cheese should I use?
Full-fat cream cheese gives the creamiest texture and best flavor. Any reputable brand will work, but avoid reduced‑fat varieties for the smoothest filling.
Where can I find egg roll wrappers?
Egg roll wrappers are usually in the refrigerated or produce section of larger grocery stores. If you can’t find them there, check an Asian market.
Do I need fresh lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is ideal, but bottled lemon juice will also work in small amounts to add a subtle tang to the filling.
What toppings work well?
Besides the cinnamon-sugar coating, try drizzling chocolate or caramel, dusting powdered sugar, or serving with diced strawberries or a berry sauce.
These egg rolls are perfect for entertaining—arrange them on a platter with a few dipping sauces like chocolate ganache or raspberry coulis for variety. Their small size and bold flavor make them a party favorite.
Recipe Notes & Tips
- Substitute lime juice for lemon if that’s what you have; it adds a pleasant tang.
- Line a paper plate with paper towels to drain excess oil after frying so the egg rolls stay crisp without being greasy.
- To reheat leftovers, pop them in an air fryer for a minute or two to crisp the exterior again.
Cheesecake Egg Rolls — Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 1/2 Tbsp sugar (for the filling)
- 1/2 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Egg roll wrappers
- Water for sealing wrappers
- 1 cup sugar + 2 Tbsp cinnamon (for coating)
- Oil for frying
- Optional toppings: caramel, chocolate, chopped strawberries, powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat 2 inches of oil in a large pot to 375°F (190°C).
- In a stand mixer or with a hand mixer, beat the cream cheese, 3 1/2 Tbsp sugar, lemon juice, vanilla, and salt until smooth, scraping the bowl as needed.
- Place an egg roll wrapper with a corner pointing toward you. Spoon about 2 Tbsp of filling near the corner, fold the bottom corner up over the filling, fold the two side corners toward the center, brush the top corner with water, and roll to seal. Repeat with remaining wrappers.
- Mix 1 cup sugar and 2 Tbsp cinnamon in a shallow bowl and set aside.
- Carefully fry 3–4 egg rolls at a time in the hot oil for about 2 minutes or until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels, then roll each warm egg roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat.
- Serve warm with your choice of toppings or dipping sauces.
Enjoy these cheesecake egg rolls as a fun dessert for gatherings, snack time, or anytime you want a crunchy, creamy treat.