These Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas are the ultimate dessert mashup! Imagine a creamy cheesecake filling and sweet strawberry pie filling wrapped in a crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated tortilla. Perfect for dessert, a sweet snack, or even a fun breakfast treat, these chimichangas are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: Ready in under 40 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or family dessert nights.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite fillings or toppings.
- Kid-friendly: A fun and delicious treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup strawberry pie filling
For the Chimichangas:
- 8 flour tortillas (8-inch size works best)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the Chimichangas
- Spread a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture onto each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Add a spoonful of strawberry pie filling in the center of each tortilla.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up tightly. Place the chimichangas seam side down in the prepared baking dish.
4. Butter and Sugar Coating
- Brush the tops of the chimichangas with melted butter.
- In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle it evenly over the chimichangas.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chimichangas are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Let the chimichangas cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with a drizzle of chocolate sauce, whipped cream, or extra strawberry pie filling.
Tips for Success
- Use Soft Tortillas: Warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave or on a skillet to make them easier to roll.
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the chimichangas to burst open during baking.
- Customize the Filling: Swap strawberry pie filling for blueberry, cherry, or apple pie filling.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the chimichangas and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Variations and Add-Ons
This recipe is super versatile! Here are some fun ways to customize it:
- Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the cream cheese mixture.
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the filling before rolling.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortillas.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative.
Serving Suggestions
These Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas are perfect for:
- Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Breakfast: Enjoy as a sweet morning treat with a cup of coffee.
- Parties: Arrange on a platter with dipping sauces like chocolate or caramel.
- Snacks: Pack them in lunchboxes or enjoy as an afternoon pick-me-up.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes or in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
FAQs
Can I fry these instead of baking?
Yes! Heat oil in a skillet and fry the chimichangas until golden brown on all sides.
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?
Yes, but toss the sliced strawberries with a little sugar to create a syrupy consistency.
Can I freeze these chimichangas?
Yes! Freeze the unbaked chimichangas in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
These Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas are a delightful combination of creamy, fruity, and crispy textures. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a sweet treat, they’re sure to be a hit.
Let’s Make It Together!
I’d love to hear how your Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas turn out! Share your results in the comments below or tag me on social media with #LivelyDish. Happy cooking! 🍓✨