If you’re craving a dessert that combines creamy indulgence with a fun, handheld twist, you have to try this Strawberry Cheesecake Tacos Recipe. Imagine crispy, cinnamon-sugar coated taco shells filled with fluffy, dreamy cheesecake filling and topped with a vibrant medley of fresh, juicy strawberries. It’s the perfect marriage of textures and flavors that will brighten any day and impress anyone lucky enough to grab one. Whether you’re making it for a casual get-together or a special treat, this recipe brings a fresh and whimsical take to classic cheesecake that’s just irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely essential to nail the balance of taste, texture, and color in your Strawberry Cheesecake Tacos Recipe. Each component plays its own role, from the crispy, cinnamon-kissed shells to the silky cream cheese filling and the bright, juicy strawberry topping.
- 6 small flour tortillas: The taco shells, perfect for frying to a crisp golden delight.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (divided): For sweetening both the shells and the strawberry topping.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm spice to the sugar coating on the shells.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Ensures the tortillas crisp up beautifully without absorbing too much oil.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): The foundation of the luscious cheesecake filling.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the cream cheese.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a hint of aromatic warmth to the cheesecake.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold): Whipped to fluffy peaks for a light, airy filling texture.
- 1 1/2 cups diced fresh strawberries: For fresh fruitiness and color contrast in the topping.
- 2 tablespoons strawberry jam: Sweet, sticky magic that amplifies the strawberry flavor.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Tacos Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Taco Shells
Start by blending 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with the cinnamon to create that signature warm, sweet coating. Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Fry each tortilla one at a time for 1 to 2 minutes, shaping it gently into a taco shell with tongs just as it softens and crisps. When golden and perfectly crisp, remove the shell and immediately toss it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture so it clings beautifully. Set the shells aside to cool and firm up – this step creates that addictive crunchy base you’ll love biting into.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until it’s perfectly smooth and luscious. Meanwhile, in a separate chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until firm peaks form – this lightens the richness and brings a fluffy texture. Fold the whipped cream gently into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined, keeping it airy but creamy. This filling is where all the cheesecake magic is, so take your time and get it just right.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
Combine the diced fresh strawberries with the remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar and the strawberry jam in a bowl. Toss gently until the berries are coated and slightly macerated, releasing their natural juicy sweetness. This topping adds freshness, a burst of color, and juicy tartness that perfectly contrasts the creamy filling.
Step 4: Assemble Your Strawberry Cheesecake Tacos
Spoon a generous amount of the cheesecake filling into each cooled taco shell, filling them luxuriously but carefully to avoid sogginess. Top each with a spoonful of the delightful strawberry mixture. Serve these immediately so the shells stay crisp and every bite bursts with fresh, creamy, sweet goodness.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Tacos Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra wow factor, sprinkle crushed graham crackers or a light drizzle of chocolate sauce over your strawberry cheesecake tacos. A few fresh mint leaves add a splash of green and a refreshing aroma to balance the sweet richness. These garnishes not only amp up the visual appeal but also deepen the flavors subtly.
Side Dishes
These tacos are a stand-alone dessert hero, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a small bowl of mixed berries complements their richness nicely. A chilled glass of sparkling wine or a fruity iced tea also pairs wonderfully for a celebratory vibe. The key is to keep side dishes light and fresh to balance the creamy sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or a fun twist, try serving the Strawberry Cheesecake Tacos Recipe in individual mini taco holders or decorative paper cups to keep them upright and neat. You could also top each taco with a tiny dollop of whipped cream and a whole strawberry slice for that picture-perfect finish. Another idea is assembling them as “taco flight” platters with different fruit toppings for variety and visual excitement.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Because these tacos rely on crisp shells, it’s best to store leftover shells separately in an airtight container to keep them crunchy. Keep the cheesecake filling and strawberry topping refrigerated in separate covered containers. Assemble just before serving to avoid sogginess and maintain that ideal texture contrast.
Freezing
The filling can be frozen in a sealed container for up to one month, but whipping cream-based fillings tend to lose some texture after thawing. The fried cinnamon-sugar shells don’t freeze well as they can get soggy. For best results, prepare fresh taco shells when ready to serve, using frozen filling only if necessary.
Reheating
Gently warm the taco shells in a low oven (about 300°F) for a few minutes to revive their crispness before assembling. Avoid microwaving since it can make shells chewy. The filling and strawberries should be served cold, so no reheating there, just fresh assembly for a perfect dessert experience.
FAQs
Can I bake the taco shells instead of frying?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, place the tortillas draped over the edges of a muffin tin and bake at 375°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp. Then roll in the cinnamon sugar immediately while still warm for best coating adhesion.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries work best for texture and flavor, but if frozen strawberries are your only option, thaw and drain them well to prevent excess water from making the tacos soggy.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the Strawberry Cheesecake Tacos Recipe is vegetarian-friendly since it contains no meat or gelatin. Just ensure your cream cheese and whipped cream meet your dietary preferences.
How long can these tacos be stored once assembled?
These are best enjoyed immediately to keep shells crisp and filling fresh. If needed, consume within a few hours and store leftovers of any components separately to maintain optimal taste and texture.
Can I make these gluten-free?
You can swap the flour tortillas for gluten-free versions, but frying behavior might vary slightly. Look for small, pliable gluten-free tortillas designed for frying or consider baking as an alternative method.
Final Thoughts
Making these Strawberry Cheesecake Tacos Recipe is a delightful adventure that turns a classic dessert into a vibrant, playful treat. The crispy, cinnamon sugar shells with luscious cheesecake filling and juicy strawberries create a flavor combination that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether for a festive occasion or a spontaneous indulgence, these tacos are sure to bring smiles and happy taste buds all around. Give them a try and watch them disappear fast!
Print
Strawberry Cheesecake Tacos Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 tacos
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Strawberry Cheesecake Tacos, a unique and indulgent dessert featuring crispy cinnamon-sugar fried tortilla shells filled with smooth, creamy cheesecake and a fresh, sweet strawberry topping. Perfect for a fun twist on traditional cheesecake, these handheld treats combine the crunch of fried tortillas with the lusciousness of whipped cream and cream cheese filling, balanced by juicy strawberries and a hint of strawberry jam.
Ingredients
Taco Shells
- 6 small flour tortillas
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 1 inch deep)
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
Strawberry Topping
- 1 1/2 cups diced fresh strawberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons strawberry jam
Instructions
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon thoroughly. This mixture will coat the taco shells for a sweet, flavorful crust.
- Fry Taco Shells: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Fry each flour tortilla individually for 1–2 minutes per side, using tongs to carefully shape them into taco shells while frying. Once golden brown and crispy, immediately remove and roll each shell in the prepared cinnamon sugar mixture to coat. Set aside on paper towels to cool and drain excess oil.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, taking care not to deflate the airy texture, resulting in a light, fluffy cheesecake filling.
- Prepare Strawberry Mixture: In another bowl, toss the diced strawberries with the remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons strawberry jam until the fruit is evenly coated and slightly macerated, releasing natural juices for flavor.
- Assemble Tacos: Spoon generous amounts of the cheesecake filling into each cinnamon sugar-coated taco shell. Then top each with the strawberry mixture to balance creamy sweetness with fresh fruit tang. Serve the desserts immediately to maintain the crunchy taco shells and fresh toppings.
Notes
- For a lighter taco shell, you can bake the tortillas shaped in a muffin tin instead of frying.
- Try topping the assembled tacos with crushed graham crackers for added texture.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the tacos as an extra decadent topping.
