If you love a mix of textures in your desserts, these Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas are a dream come true. The outside is golden and crisp with a fragrant cinnamon-sugar coating, while the inside surprises you with creamy cheesecake and juicy strawberries. It’s indulgence in every single bite—simple to make, yet elegant enough to impress your guests.
This recipe is ideal for anyone who wants to recreate that fair-style fried cheesecake flavor without the oil. By baking instead of frying, you still achieve a delightful crunch with a lighter finish. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family treat, a weekend brunch dessert, or a potluck hit, these chimichangas offer the perfect balance of ease, taste, and presentation.
Full Recipe:
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8 flour tortillas
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1 cup cream cheese, softened
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1/4 cup powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup strawberry pie filling
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2 tablespoons butter, melted
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2 tablespoons granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon cinnamon
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture onto each tortilla, leaving a small edge uncovered.
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Spoon a portion of strawberry pie filling into the center of each tortilla.
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Roll each tortilla tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
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Brush the tops with melted butter.
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Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle over the tops of the rolled tortillas.
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Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
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Allow to cool slightly before serving warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 8
A Delicious Twist on a Classic: Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas
Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas are the kind of dessert that stops conversations, sparks smiles, and makes guests ask for seconds. This dish brings together two classic desserts—cheesecake and fruit-filled pastries—wrapped in a golden, crispy tortilla shell and finished with a cinnamon-sugar dusting that makes every bite a moment of indulgence.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone exploring the world of desserts for the first time, this recipe offers a surprisingly simple way to create a dessert that tastes bakery-quality but can be made right in your kitchen with minimal effort.
What Makes Chimichangas So Irresistible?
Traditionally, chimichangas are savory and deep-fried, typically packed with meat and beans. However, this sweet version reimagines the classic by trading the savory filling for a creamy cheesecake mixture paired with fruity strawberry pie filling. Instead of deep-frying, these chimichangas are baked to a beautiful golden crisp, making them lighter and more accessible for home cooks looking to avoid extra grease and mess.
The tortilla, often an overlooked ingredient in desserts, becomes the perfect vessel for this filling. It crisps up in the oven, forming a flaky, buttery exterior that contrasts delightfully with the soft, rich interior. The cinnamon-sugar topping not only adds sweetness but also gives a nostalgic feel reminiscent of churros or cinnamon rolls.
Why Strawberry and Cheesecake Are a Match Made in Heaven
Strawberries and cheesecake are a flavor duo that’s practically timeless. The slight tartness and juiciness of the strawberries cut through the richness of the cream cheese filling, offering balance and freshness to the dessert. It’s a dynamic combination that satisfies a wide range of palates and appeals to all ages.
This dessert uses strawberry pie filling for convenience, allowing the dish to come together quickly without needing to cook down fresh fruit. That said, you can certainly adapt it with homemade compote or even fresh strawberries if you prefer a less sweet, more fruit-forward finish.
An Easy Dessert with Big Payoff
One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is how little effort it takes to create such an impressive dessert. From start to finish, it can be made in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even as a last-minute treat when company’s on the way.
Because the recipe skips frying in favor of baking, cleanup is easier and the end result is slightly healthier. Yet, you don’t lose any of the decadent feel—especially if you serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Ideal for Entertaining and Customization
Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas are also incredibly versatile. While they are amazing as-is, you can easily tailor them to suit your preferences or match the occasion.
Want a fall-themed version? Swap the strawberry filling for apple pie filling and add a sprinkle of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar. Craving something extra rich? Drizzle them with chocolate or caramel sauce before serving. Hosting a party? Slice them into thirds for bite-sized portions that guests can grab and enjoy.
The presentation also lends itself well to dinner parties or events. When arranged on a platter with garnishes like mint leaves, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar, these chimichangas look as stunning as they taste.
Great for All Skill Levels
This recipe is incredibly beginner-friendly. Even if you’ve never baked a dessert before, the steps are straightforward, the ingredients are easy to find, and there’s minimal risk of error. The cream cheese mixture is quick to whip up, and the rolling process is simple and forgiving. Baking them in the oven ensures even cooking without the stress of hot oil or precise timing.
At the same time, more experienced bakers will appreciate the room for creativity and flair. You could make the tortillas from scratch, experiment with different fruit fillings, or play with spices like cardamom or ginger in the sugar topping.
Storage and Serving Tips
These chimichangas are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they’re warm and slightly crisp. However, leftovers can easily be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven or toaster oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this tends to make the tortilla soggy.
For serving, they’re delicious on their own, but a few extras can elevate the dish even further. Consider topping with:
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A scoop of vanilla ice cream
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Fresh sliced strawberries
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A drizzle of honey or chocolate
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A dusting of powdered sugar
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Crushed graham crackers for texture
You can also serve them with a small bowl of whipped cream or yogurt on the side to balance the richness of the cheesecake filling.
Fun for Kids and Family-Friendly
If you’re looking for a recipe to make with kids, this one is a winner. Children can help spread the filling, spoon in the strawberries, roll up the tortillas, and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar on top. It’s a hands-on activity that gets them involved in the kitchen and excited about cooking.
Because the ingredients are familiar and the sweetness is kid-approved, this dessert is almost guaranteed to be a hit at family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even birthday parties.
A Mexican-Inspired Dessert with a Sweet American Twist
While not a traditional Mexican dessert, this dish takes inspiration from the form of chimichangas and transforms it into a distinctly American-style indulgence. It’s a testament to culinary creativity—where cultures blend and beloved flavors take on new forms. The warm spices, creamy texture, and fruity brightness bring global flavors into a dessert that feels right at home on any dinner table.
Whether you’re celebrating Cinco de Mayo, hosting a fusion dinner night, or simply craving a cozy homemade dessert, Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas offer a little something for everyone.
Conclusion: Your New Go-To Dessert
Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas check every box: they’re easy to make, rich and satisfying, visually appealing, and endlessly customizable. They manage to feel both nostalgic and inventive at the same time—perfect for a relaxing evening at home or an impressive finale to a dinner party.
If you’re looking to add a unique and unforgettable dessert to your repertoire, this recipe deserves a spot in your rotation. It’s the kind of treat that draws “oohs” and “ahhs” from guests but requires surprisingly little effort from the cook.
So grab some tortillas, whip up a creamy filling, and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite dessert—one bite at a time.