If you’re on the hunt for a sweet, creamy treat that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Fried Cream Cheese Rolls Recipe is a total game-changer. Picture crispy, golden-brown pockets filled with a luscious, smooth cream cheese filling that’s lightly sweetened and kissed with vanilla, then dusted with fragrant cinnamon sugar. It’s the perfect combo of crunchy outside and dreamy inside, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or a delightful indulgence on a quiet afternoon. Trust me, once you try this Fried Cream Cheese Rolls Recipe, it’ll become one of your go-to comfort snacks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because it keeps things simple yet essential. Every ingredient brings something wonderful to the table—from the flaky crescent roll dough to the creamy filling to the sugary, cinnamon coating that finishes each roll perfectly.
- Crescent roll dough: Store-bought for convenience and perfectly flaky texture that crisps up beautifully when fried.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The star of the filling, lending that rich, smooth creaminess you’ll adore.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup, divided): Sweetens the cream cheese filling and adds sparkle to the coating.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds a warm, inviting aroma and depth to the creamy filling.
- Cinnamon sugar (1/4 cup): The final dusting that adds a nostalgic hint of spice and shine to each roll.
- Oil for frying: Essential for that crisp, golden exterior that contrasts deliciously with the soft filling.
How to Make Fried Cream Cheese Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by blending the softened cream cheese, half of the sugar (1/4 cup), and vanilla extract in a bowl until the mixture is silky smooth and creamy. This filling will become the luscious heart of your rolls, so take a moment to ensure everything is well combined and fluffy.
Step 2: Assemble the Rolls
Carefully unroll the crescent dough and cut it into small squares or triangles, depending on your shape preference. Place a generous spoonful of that lovely cream cheese mixture right in the center of each piece. Now, fold the dough over the filling and press the edges firmly to seal so none of that creamy goodness leaks out during frying. This sealing step is crucial for tasty, mess-free rolls.
Step 3: Fry the Rolls
Heat your oil in a deep pan or fryer to a steady 350°F (175°C). Gently lower the filled dough pieces into the hot oil, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until the rolls are a beautiful golden brown and irresistibly crispy. Once golden, transfer them onto paper towels to drain any excess oil—this keeps them delightfully crisp without being greasy.
Step 4: Coat and Serve
While the rolls are still warm, toss them in your cinnamon sugar mixture. The heat helps the sugar stick and melt slightly, giving each roll a sweet, slightly crunchy coating that smells as fantastic as it tastes. Serve these bad boys immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.
How to Serve Fried Cream Cheese Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra wow factor, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top or drizzle with a thin glaze of honey or chocolate. Fresh berries or a mint leaf can add a pop of color and freshness, making these rolls look as irresistible as they taste.
Side Dishes
Fried Cream Cheese Rolls are a lovely standalone treat but also make a fun accompaniment to coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert plate. If you want more balance, fresh fruit salad or a simple green smoothie pairs nicely to cut through the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your rolls on a rustic wooden board or a pretty platter dusted lightly with cinnamon sugar. Layer them in a basket lined with parchment paper for a café-style feel, or stack them on a tiered dessert tray during parties to impress your guests with presentation and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. While they’re best enjoyed fresh, this method preserves some of the crispness and prevents them from drying out too quickly.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled rolls before frying by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freezing until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready, fry them straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the frying time to ensure they cook through.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly fried crispness, reheat leftover rolls in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the dough soggy.
FAQs
Can I use homemade dough instead of store-bought crescent rolls?
Absolutely! Homemade dough works wonderfully if you want to add a personal touch. Just make sure it’s rolled out thin enough to fry evenly and that you seal the edges tightly to keep your filling intact.
What can I substitute vanilla extract with?
If you don’t have vanilla extract on hand, almond extract or even a splash of lemon zest can add a unique flavor twist to the cream cheese filling, though vanilla is classic for a reason!
Is deep frying the only cooking method?
While frying gives the rolls their signature crisp exterior, you can also bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–15 minutes until golden. They won’t be quite as crispy but still delicious.
How do I prevent the rolls from leaking filling during frying?
Be sure to pinch the dough edges very firmly and consider brushing a little water or egg wash along the seams before sealing. This creates a better seal to keep that creamy filling inside.
Can I add other fillings to this Fried Cream Cheese Rolls Recipe?
Definitely! Experiment with fruit preserves, chocolate chips, or even sweetened mashed pumpkin. Just keep the filling thick enough so it doesn’t ooze out when frying.
Final Thoughts
This Fried Cream Cheese Rolls Recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence that anyone can make and enjoy. Crispy, creamy, sweet, and warmly spiced, these rolls are just waiting to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So grab your ingredients, get frying, and treat yourself and your loved ones to these delightful little parcels of joy!
Print
Fried Cream Cheese Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightful fried cream cheese rolls featuring creamy sweet filling encased in crisp golden dough, coated with cinnamon sugar for a perfect warm dessert or snack.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 package crescent roll dough (store-bought)
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping
- 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (for dusting)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for mixing and coating)
Other
- Oil for frying (enough for deep frying, about 2-3 cups depending on pan size)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well blended.
- Assemble the Rolls: Roll out the crescent roll dough on a clean surface. Cut the dough into small squares or triangles of your preferred size. Place a spoonful of the prepared cream cheese mixture in the center of each dough piece. Fold and seal the dough around the filling tightly to prevent leakage during frying.
- Fry the Rolls: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the filled dough pieces into the hot oil, frying each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove the rolls and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Coat and Serve: While the rolls are still warm, toss them gently in cinnamon sugar to coat evenly. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Make sure to seal the edges of the dough tightly to prevent filling from leaking out during frying.
- Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F to ensure even cooking and avoid greasy rolls.
- You can adjust the amount of cinnamon sugar coating to your sweetness preference.
- Serve these rolls warm for the best flavor and texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in an oven to restore crispiness.
