1. Making the Cheesecake Filling:
- Prepare Cheesecake Batter: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using a hand mixer or a stand mixer. Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, egg, and flour. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Chill Batter: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cheesecake batter for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
2. Shaping the Cheesecake Balls:
- Prepare Breading Station: In three separate shallow bowls, place the graham cracker crumbs in one, the flour mixed with sugar and cinnamon (if using) in another, and the beaten eggs in the third.
- Form Cheesecake Balls: Remove the chilled cheesecake batter from the refrigerator. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the batter and roll them into balls using your hands.
- Coat the Cheesecake Balls: Roll each cheesecake ball first in the flour mixture, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with the graham cracker crumbs. Ensure each ball is evenly coated. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze Cheesecake Balls: Once all balls are coated, place them in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape during frying.
3. Frying the Cheesecake Balls:
- Heat Oil: In a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to fully submerge the cheesecake balls.
- Fry the Cheesecake Balls: Carefully place a few cheesecake balls into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the fryer. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to carefully turn them for even cooking.
- Drain and Cool: Once fried, remove the cheesecake balls from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly.
4. Serving the Deep Fried Cheesecake:
- Serve Warm: Arrange the warm Deep Fried Cheesecake balls on a serving platter. Dust them with powdered sugar and serve with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries or fruit compote, if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Chilling Time: Chilling the cheesecake batter before shaping and freezing the balls helps them hold their shape better during frying.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain a consistent oil temperature of around 350°F (175°C) for crispy and evenly cooked cheesecake balls.
- Handling: Be gentle when handling the cheesecake balls to prevent them from falling apart during the coating and frying process.
Variations:
- Chocolate Coating: Instead of graham cracker crumbs, coat the cheesecake balls in crushed chocolate cookies or cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
- Fruity Drizzle: Drizzle the fried cheesecake balls with chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or a berry coulis for added flavor and decoration.
Conclusion:
Deep Fried Cheesecake is a delightful and indulgent dessert that combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with a crispy, crunchy exterior. Perfect for special occasions or as a decadent treat, these fried cheesecake balls are sure to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy the contrast of textures and flavors in every bite of this delicious dessert!