Name: Fried Cheesecake Recipe (Luby’s Copycat)
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 18
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Cheesecake Filling:; 20 oz cream cheese; 1 cup sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 cup sour cream; 2 tbsp flour; ½ tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp Fresh Lemon Juice; For Strawberry Glaze:; 2 cups water; 1½ cups sugar; 1.5 oz strawberry gelatin; ¾ cup cornstarch; 2 tsp red food coloring; 1 lb strawberries; For Fried Cheesecake:; 18 flour tortillas; oil; 1 cup sugar; 1 tbsp Cinnamon; 1 cup caramel sauce; Whipped cream

Indulge in a decadent treat with this fried cheesecake recipe. Inspired by Luby’s, this dessert features a creamy cheesecake filling, a sweet strawberry glaze, and a crispy tortilla shell, all beautifully complemented with caramel sauce and whipped cream.

Photos of Fried Cheesecake Recipe (Luby’s Copycat)

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in your pantry, you may need to pick up some specialty items like strawberry gelatin and red food coloring at the supermarket. Additionally, make sure to grab fresh strawberries and cream cheese for the filling.

Fried Cheesecake Recipe Ingredients

cream cheese: A rich, creamy base for the cheesecake filling.

sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling and the strawberry glaze.

eggs: Helps to bind the cheesecake ingredients together.

sour cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess to the cheesecake.

flour: Provides structure to the cheesecake filling.

vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake.

lemon juice: Adds a touch of brightness to the cheesecake.

water: Used in the strawberry glaze preparation.

strawberry gelatin: Gives the strawberry glaze its flavor and texture.

cornstarch: Thickens the strawberry glaze.

red food coloring: Enhances the color of the strawberry glaze.

strawberries: Fresh fruit for the glaze.

flour tortillas: Used to wrap the cheesecake filling.

oil: For frying the cheesecake wraps.

cinnamon: Combined with sugar to coat the fried tortillas.

caramel sauce: Drizzled on top for added sweetness.

whipped cream: Optional topping for serving.

One reader, Cly Rouse says:

This fried cheesecake recipe is a game-changer! The creamy filling paired with the crispy tortilla and sweet strawberry glaze is simply divine. Perfect for special occasions or a decadent treat. Highly recommend!

Cly Rouse

Techniques Required for Making Fried Cheesecake

How to whisk ingredients: Whisking involves using a whisk or fork to blend ingredients together until smooth and well combined. This technique is used to mix the cream cheese, sugar, eggs, sour cream, flour, vanilla, and lemon juice for the cheesecake filling.

How to bake in a springform pan: A springform pan has sides that can be removed from the base. This is useful for delicate desserts like cheesecake. Spray the pan with baking spray to prevent sticking, then pour in the batter and bake.

How to make a glaze: Making a glaze involves combining liquid and thickening agents, then heating until the mixture thickens. For the strawberry glaze, you combine water, sugar, and gelatin, then add a cornstarch mixture while whisking constantly until it thickens.

How to fry food: Frying involves cooking food in hot oil. Heat the oil to 350 degrees F, then carefully place the cheesecake-filled tortillas into the oil and fry until golden brown.

How to roll a burrito: Rolling a burrito involves placing the filling in the center of the tortilla, folding in the sides, and then rolling it up tightly. Secure with toothpicks or freeze to help seal the edges.

How to mix cinnamon and sugar: Mixing cinnamon and sugar involves combining the two ingredients in a shallow bowl until evenly distributed. This mixture is used to coat the fried cheesecake.

How to use a cooling rack: A cooling rack allows air to circulate around the food, helping it cool evenly and preventing it from becoming soggy. Place the fried cheesecake on the rack after coating it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

How To Make Fried Cheesecake (Luby’s Copycat)

This Luby’s-inspired fried cheesecake comes with a crispy tortilla crust filled with rich cream cheese filling and fresh strawberry glaze.

Preparation: 1 hour

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 1 hour 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Cheesecake Filling:

20ozcream cheese,softened
1cupsugar
3largeeggs
1cupsour cream
2tbspflour
½tspvanilla extract
½tspfresh lemon juice

For Strawberry Glaze:

2cupswater
1½cupssugar
1.5ozstrawberry gelatin,(½ package)
¾cupcornstarch
2tspred food coloring
1lbstrawberries,hulled and sliced

For Fried Cheesecake:

18flour tortillas,(8-inch)
oil,for frying
1cupsugar
1tbspcinnamon
1cupcaramel sauce
whipped cream,optional

Instructions

Cheesecake Filling:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and spray a springform pan with baking spray.
Whisk together the cream cheese, sugar, eggs, sour cream, flour, vanilla, and lemon juice until smooth, and completely combined.
Add the mixture to the springform pan and bake for 30 minutes.
Cool completely.

Strawberry Glaze:

In a medium pot add 1½ cups of the water, sugar, and gelatin and whisk well until combined, then bring to a boil on medium heat.
Whisk the remaining water with the cornstarch and pour it slowly into the pot while whisking.
Whisk constantly for about 4 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Remove from heat, then whisk in food coloring.
Let cool completely before adding in the strawberry slices.

Fried Cheesecake:

Add a 1×3-inch long piece of cheesecake (try to keep the cheesecake intact if possible) to the center of the flour tortillas, then fold the edges in and roll like a burrito.
Secure with toothpicks. Alternatively, freeze before frying and brush egg on the seams and freeze seam side down to seal the tortilla closed.
When ready to fry, heat 3 inches of oil to 350 degrees F.
Mix sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
Carefully put the cheesecake egg rolls into the hot oil (3 to 4 per frying batch) and fry for about 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown.
When the cheesecake comes out of the fryer, immediately roll it into the cinnamon-sugar mixture then let it cool on a cooling rack.
Serve drizzled with caramel sauce, strawberry topping and whipped cream if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 553.61kcal
Fat: 20.92g
Saturated Fat: 8.66g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.44g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.66g
Carbohydrates: 84.58g
Fiber: 2.15g
Sugar: 42.79g
Protein: 9.69g
Cholesterol: 72.48mg
Sodium: 566.89mg
Calcium: 150.25mg
Potassium: 196.45mg
Iron: 2.17mg
Vitamin A: 156.35µg
Vitamin C: 15.06mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Fried Cheesecake

When preparing the cheesecake filling, ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This will help achieve a smoother and more consistent batter, reducing the risk of lumps.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Fried Cheesecake

Prepare the filling: Mix the cream cheese, sugar, eggs, sour cream, flour, vanilla, and lemon juice the night before and store in the fridge.

Use pre-made glaze: Save time by using a store-bought strawberry glaze instead of making it from scratch.

Freeze before frying: Freeze the cheesecake burritos for at least an hour before frying to ensure they hold their shape.

Batch frying: Fry multiple cheesecake burritos at once to save time.

Pre-mix cinnamon sugar: Mix the sugar and cinnamon ahead of time and store in an airtight container.

Substitute Ingredients For Fried Cheesecake Recipe (Luby’s Copycat)

cream cheese - Substitute with neufchâtel cheese: Neufchâtel cheese has a similar texture and flavor but with less fat.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide a natural sweetness and adds a slight floral note.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp water per egg; this is a good vegan alternative.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt has a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can thicken the mixture similarly to flour but is gluten-free.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but pleasant flavor profile.
fresh lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor.
water - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice can add a subtle fruity flavor to the glaze.
strawberry gelatin - Substitute with agar-agar: Agar-agar is a plant-based gelling agent suitable for vegetarians.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a good thickening agent and is gluten-free.
red food coloring - Substitute with beet juice: Beet juice provides a natural red color without artificial additives.
strawberries - Substitute with raspberries: Raspberries offer a similar tartness and can be used in the glaze.
flour tortillas - Substitute with wonton wrappers: Wonton wrappers can be fried to a crispy texture similar to tortillas.
oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a healthier alternative and adds a slight coconut flavor.
sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and a caramel-like flavor.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg provides a warm, spicy flavor similar to cinnamon.
caramel sauce - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a rich, sweet flavor and is a natural sweetener.
whipped cream - Substitute with coconut whipped cream: Coconut whipped cream is a dairy-free alternative with a light, fluffy texture.

Presentation Ideas for Fried Cheesecake

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the fried cheesecake into bite-sized pieces to ensure a refined and elegant presentation. This allows the diners to savor each component without overwhelming their palate.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with fresh mint leaves and a dusting of powdered sugar to add a touch of sophistication and visual appeal.
Layer flavors: Drizzle the caramel sauce artistically over the fried cheesecake pieces, ensuring each bite has a balanced sweetness. Add a few drops of strawberry glaze for a burst of color and flavor contrast.
Texture contrast: Place a dollop of whipped cream next to the fried cheesecake, adding a creamy texture that complements the crispy exterior and the rich filling.
Highlight ingredients: Arrange a few slices of fresh strawberries around the plate to emphasize the strawberry glaze and provide a fresh, fruity element.
Elegant plating: Use a large, white plate to create a clean canvas. Position the fried cheesecake pieces in a staggered line or a circular pattern to draw the eye and create a dynamic presentation.
Balance colors: Ensure the plate has a harmonious color palette by balancing the golden brown of the fried cheesecake with the vibrant red of the strawberry glaze and the green of the mint leaves.
Add height: Stack a couple of fried cheesecake pieces slightly on top of each other to add dimension and height to the dish, making it more visually interesting.
Use fine dining techniques: Employ a squeeze bottle to create precise lines and dots of caramel sauce and strawberry glaze, showcasing your attention to detail and culinary finesse.
Finish with a flourish: Lightly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the entire plate, adding a final touch of flavor and a hint of sparkle that elevates the overall presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Fried Cheesecake

Springform pan: Used to bake the cheesecake filling, allowing for easy removal without damaging the cake.
Baking spray: Used to coat the springform pan to prevent the cheesecake from sticking.
Whisk: Used to mix the cheesecake filling ingredients until smooth and combined.
Medium pot: Used to prepare the strawberry glaze by boiling water, sugar, and gelatin.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out ingredients like water, sugar, and cornstarch accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like vanilla extract and lemon juice.
Cooling rack: Used to cool the cheesecake and fried cheesecake rolls.
Toothpicks: Used to secure the tortillas around the cheesecake filling before frying.
Deep fryer or large pot: Used to heat the oil and fry the cheesecake rolls.
Thermometer: Used to ensure the oil reaches the correct frying temperature of 350 degrees F.
Shallow bowl: Used to mix the cinnamon and sugar for coating the fried cheesecake rolls.
Tongs: Used to carefully place the cheesecake rolls into the hot oil and remove them once fried.
Knife: Used to cut the cheesecake into 1x3-inch pieces for filling the tortillas.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine ingredients for the cheesecake filling and the strawberry glaze.
Spatula: Used to scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
Cooling rack: Used to allow the fried cheesecake rolls to cool after being coated in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Storing and Freezing Fried Cheesecake

Let the fried cheesecake cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled fried cheesecake in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the fried cheesecake:
- Arrange the cooled fried cheesecake in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 2 hours, or until the fried cheesecake are frozen solid.
- Once frozen, transfer the fried cheesecake to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Label the container or bag with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat fried cheesecake from the refrigerator, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
To reheat frozen fried cheesecake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the frozen fried cheesecake on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. No need to thaw before reheating.
For best results, consume the reheated fried cheesecake immediately, as they may lose their crispiness over time.
If you have leftover strawberry glaze, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat the glaze in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

How To Reheat Fried Cheesecake Leftovers

To reheat leftover fried cheesecake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cheesecake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method will help restore the crispy exterior while keeping the cheesecake filling soft and creamy.
Another option is to reheat the fried cheesecake in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cheesecake in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. This method is quick and will help maintain the original texture of the fried cheesecake.
For a quicker reheating method, you can use a microwave. Place the fried cheesecake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 15-second intervals until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as this may cause the tortilla to become soggy and the filling to melt unevenly.
If you have an indoor grill or panini press, you can use it to reheat the fried cheesecake. Preheat the grill or press to medium heat and place the cheesecake inside. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. This method will give you a nice, crispy exterior while warming the cheesecake filling.
For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the fried cheesecake in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until heated through and crispy. This method is quick and easy, and it will help restore the crispy texture of the tortilla.

Random Fact About Fried Cheesecake

A unique aspect of this fried cheesecake recipe is the combination of textures and flavors. The cheesecake filling is creamy and rich, while the fried tortilla adds a crispy exterior. The strawberry glaze and caramel sauce provide a sweet and tangy contrast, making each bite a delightful experience.

Is Making Fried Cheesecake at Home Cost-Effective?

This fried cheesecake recipe, inspired by Luby's, is moderately cost-effective for a household. The primary expenses are cream cheese, strawberries, and oil for frying. Given the indulgent nature of the dessert, it’s a splurge rather than a staple. The approximate cost for a household of four is around $25-$30 USD. Overall verdict: 6/10.

Is Fried Cheesecake Healthy or Unhealthy?

This fried cheesecake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not a particularly healthy choice. The cheesecake filling itself is high in fat and sugar, with the addition of sour cream and a significant amount of cream cheese. The strawberry glaze also contains a considerable amount of sugar, and the process of frying the cheesecake in oil adds even more fat and calories to the dish. Furthermore, the final touches of cinnamon sugar, caramel sauce, and whipped cream only serve to increase the overall calorie and sugar content.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar in the cheesecake filling and strawberry glaze, or use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract
Replace some of the cream cheese with low-fat cottage cheese or Greek yogurt to lower the fat content
Bake the cheesecake egg rolls instead of frying them, which will significantly reduce the amount of oil and calories
Use whole wheat tortillas instead of regular flour tortillas for added fiber and nutrients
Serve the cheesecake with fresh fruit instead of caramel sauce and whipped cream to reduce the sugar content and add some healthy vitamins and antioxidants

Editor's Opinion on This Fried Cheesecake Recipe

This fried cheesecake recipe is an indulgent fusion of creamy cheesecake and crispy fried goodness. The cheesecake filling is rich and smooth, perfectly balanced with a hint of lemon. The strawberry glaze adds a vibrant, fruity contrast, while the cinnamon-sugar coating provides a delightful crunch. Frying the cheesecake in tortillas is a clever twist, ensuring a satisfying texture. The addition of caramel sauce and whipped cream elevates the dessert to a decadent level. Overall, this recipe is a delightful treat that combines multiple textures and flavors, making it a standout dessert for special occasions.

Enhance Your Fried Cheesecake Recipe (Luby’s Copycat) with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Imagine the sweet and tangy flavors of grilled pineapple skewers dancing on your taste buds. The caramelized edges of the pineapple pair perfectly with the rich, creamy texture of the fried cheesecake. A drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon will elevate this tropical delight to new heights.

Minted Fruit Salad: A refreshing minted fruit salad can be the perfect companion to your decadent dessert. The crispness of fresh fruits like watermelon, kiwi, and berries combined with a hint of mint will cleanse your palate and add a burst of freshness to your meal.

Coconut Rice Pudding: Indulge in the creamy, dreamy goodness of coconut rice pudding. The subtle sweetness of coconut milk and the fragrant aroma of jasmine rice create a harmonious blend that complements the richness of the fried cheesecake. A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes adds a delightful crunch.

Lemon Basil Sorbet: Cool down with a zesty lemon basil sorbet. The tartness of lemon and the aromatic notes of fresh basil create a refreshing contrast to the warm, fried dessert. This icy treat will cleanse your palate and leave you feeling invigorated.

Spiced Apple Compote: Warm up with a comforting spiced apple compote. The tender chunks of apples cooked with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of brown sugar create a cozy, autumnal flavor that pairs beautifully with the fried cheesecake. A dollop of whipped cream on top adds the perfect finishing touch.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Fried Cheesecake

Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas: Imagine the creamy goodness of cheesecake wrapped in a crispy tortilla shell, then fried to golden perfection. Top it off with a drizzle of strawberry glaze and a dollop of whipped cream for a dessert that’s out of this world.

Deep-Fried Ice Cream: Take your favorite ice cream and encase it in a crunchy cornflake or cookie crumb coating. Fry it quickly to create a warm, crispy exterior while keeping the inside deliciously cold. Serve with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel.

Banana Foster Chimichangas: Combine the flavors of bananas, brown sugar, and rum in a warm, crispy tortilla. Fry until golden brown and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Apple Pie Egg Rolls: Fill egg roll wrappers with a sweet apple pie filling, then fry until crispy. Roll in cinnamon sugar and serve with a side of vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce for dipping.

Churro Cheesecake Bars: Blend the classic flavors of churros and cheesecake into a delightful bar. A cinnamon-sugar crust pairs perfectly with a creamy cheesecake filling, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Fried Cheesecake

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine portobello mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The filling is then topped with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, creating a crispy, golden crust. These bite-sized delights are baked to perfection, offering a creamy and flavorful experience with every bite. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear quickly from the plate.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic appetizer that never fails to impress. Start with slices of toasted baguette, brushed with olive oil and rubbed with garlic. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella cheese. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and tang, balancing the flavors beautifully. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of freshness and flavor in every bite.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. The marinade infuses the chicken with a burst of citrusy flavor, while the herbs add a fragrant aroma. Grill the chicken to perfection, achieving a beautiful char and juicy interior. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables and a light quinoa salad for a wholesome and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These vibrant peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, seasoned with spices and herbs. The filling is hearty and flavorful, making each bite a delightful experience. Bake the peppers until they are tender and the filling is perfectly cooked. Top with melted cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an added touch of elegance. Pair with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Why trust this Fried Cheesecake Recipe (Luby’s Copycat):

This fried cheesecake recipe is a must-try for dessert lovers. With its creamy cheesecake filling, crispy flour tortillas, and luscious strawberry glaze, it offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The recipe is meticulously detailed, ensuring you achieve perfect results every time. Plus, the addition of cinnamon-sugar coating and caramel sauce elevates the dessert to a gourmet level. Trust this recipe for a show-stopping treat that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Have you tried making this Fried Cheesecake Recipe (Luby's Copycat)? Let us know how it turned out and share your thoughts in the Baking and Desserts forum section!

FAQ:

How do I keep the cheesecake from falling apart when I cut it into pieces?

Make sure the cheesecake is completely cooled and even slightly chilled before cutting it into pieces. This helps it hold its shape better. You can also freeze the cheesecake for a bit to make it easier to handle.

Can I use a different type of fruit for the glaze?

Absolutely! You can substitute the strawberries with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even a mixed berry blend. Just make sure to adjust the gelatin flavor to match the fruit you're using.

Do I have to use flour tortillas, or can I use another type of wrap?

Flour tortillas work best because they fry up nice and crispy, but you can experiment with other wraps if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the texture might be different.

Can I make the cheesecake filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cheesecake filling a day or two in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you're ready to assemble and fry the cheesecake rolls.

What’s the best way to reheat the fried cheesecake if I have leftovers?

The best way to reheat fried cheesecake is in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 10 minutes. This helps to keep the outside crispy while warming up the inside. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the tortilla soggy.