Imagine a dessert that combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the crispy, golden exterior of a chimichanga, bursting with the natural sweetness of strawberries. If you love cheesecake and want a fun twist to serve your family or guests, these Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas are calling your name. Easy to prepare and utterly delightful, they are perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into making this delicious treat that will wow anyone who takes a bite!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

These Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas are not just delightful to eat, but they also provide an exciting way to enjoy a classic dessert. The combination of creamy filling and crispy tortilla is simply irresistible! The lightness of the Greek yogurt complements the luscious cream cheese perfectly, making this dessert feel indulgent yet not overly heavy. Plus, with fresh strawberries in every bite, these chimichangas are bright, flavorful, and great for any strawberry lover.

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy to make, visually appealing, and downright delicious, this is it! Whether served with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar, these chimichangas will be a hit at your next gathering.

Ingredients

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup strawberries, hulled and thinly sliced
6 soft taco-sized flour tortillas
3 tablespoons butter, melted
½ cup granulated sugar (for coating)
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

How To Make Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by creating the creamy cheesecake filling that will be the star of your chimichangas. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, plain Greek yogurt, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, blend the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes.

Next, gently fold in the sliced strawberries, ensuring that they are well distributed throughout the cheesecake mixture. The fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the creaminess of the filling.

Step 2: Assemble the Chimichangas

Now it’s time to assemble your chimichangas. Lay a tortilla on a flat surface, and place about 2-3 tablespoons of the cheesecake filling in the center of the tortilla. Be careful not to overfill, as this will make it difficult to roll.

To roll up your chimichanga, fold in the sides over the filling, then starting from the bottom, roll the tortilla tightly around the filling. Once rolled, brush the top side with melted butter to help seal it. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 3: Fry the Chimichangas

In a large skillet, heat about 1-2 inches of oil over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot enough that a small drop of batter sizzles immediately when added. If you’d rather not deep fry, you can also bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for that crispy exterior.

Carefully add the chimichangas to the hot oil, seam side down, and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Once cooked, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate covered with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.

Step 4: Sugar and Cinnamon Coating

While the chimichangas are still warm, combine the ½ cup of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Roll each chimichanga in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated. This sweet, fragrant coating perfectly complements the rich filling and crispy exterior.

Expert Tips

Ensure your cream cheese is softened for easier mixing. It’s best to leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting.
For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a little lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice to the cheesecake filling.
If you prefer baking to frying, you can brush the rolled chimichangas with melted butter and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper before baking.
Serve warm with a drizzle of strawberry sauce or chocolate sauce for an added layer of indulgence!

Variations and Customizations

Switch up the fruit by using raspberries, blueberries, or even bananas instead of strawberries for unique flavors.
Add a layer of chocolate chips or white chocolate chips to the filling for a sweeter kick.
For a nutty texture, consider adding crushed almonds or walnuts to the filling.
Try using flavored Greek yogurt, such as vanilla or honey, for an added dimension of taste.

How to Store Leftovers

If there are any leftover chimichangas (it’s hard to imagine!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. If you prefer, you can microwave them for about 30 seconds, though they may lose some of their crispiness.

FAQ

Can I use another type of cheese instead of cream cheese?

You can experiment with mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a different flavor profile, but it may change the texture of the filling.

Do I have to fry the chimichangas, or can I bake them?

You can definitely bake the chimichangas if you prefer a healthier option. Brush them with melted butter and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the chimichangas in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to fry or bake them. For best results, fry or bake them just before serving.

What can I serve with Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas?

These chimichangas pair wonderfully with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of chocolate or strawberry sauce. For a festive touch, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Conclusion

Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas are an innovative and delightful twist on dessert that the whole family will love. With their crispy exterior and creamy, fruity filling, they offer the perfect combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Make them today and enjoy a heavenly concoction that beautifully marries the worlds of cheesecake and chimichangas. Happy cooking!

Print Recipe