Cinnamon Cream Cheese Bites are little goodies that pair creamy cheese with a sprinkle of cinnamon goodness. Perfect for a sweet snack or a fun dessert!
They’re super easy to make and so tasty that you’ll want to share, but you might just keep them all to yourself! Trust me, I always want to! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: The star of the show! Always use full-fat cream cheese for a creamy texture. You can also try Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter option, though it may be slightly less rich.
Powdered Sugar: This sweetener gives the filling a smooth texture. If you need a healthy alternative, you can blend coconut sugar into a fine powder for a similar effect.
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for the batter. If you’re gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. It works great without altering the flavor!
Granulated Sugar and Cinnamon: This mix gives the bites their sweet coating. You can adjust the ratios to your taste, or even try adding a little nutmeg for extra warmth!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Fried Texture?
Getting your bites crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside is key! Here’s how:
- Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer if possible, as the right temperature is crucial.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Flip gently with a slotted spoon to ensure even cooking.
- Drain on paper towels immediately after frying to remove excess oil.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly golden bites ready to be filled and enjoyed!
How to Make Delicious Cinnamon Cream Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
For Frying and Coating:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus another 15-20 minutes for frying. So in total, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes to whip up these tasty treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
Start by mixing the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to beat them together until everything is smooth and creamy. Once it’s all combined, set this bowl aside for later.
2. Make the Batter:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until mixed well. In another bowl, whisk the milk and egg together until they’re well combined. Gradually add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently. Keep mixing until you have a smooth batter.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a deep fryer or large pan, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to get the oil hot enough so the bites fry nicely! You can use a thermometer to check the temperature.
4. Fry the Bites:
Carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, making sure they’re small, bite-sized dollops. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes, turning them gently so they cook evenly. They should be golden brown and puffy when done!
5. Drain and Coat:
Once golden, use a slotted spoon to lift the bites out of the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil. While they are still warm, roll each bite in a mixture of sugar and ground cinnamon until they’re beautifully coated.
6. Fill and Serve:
Using a piping bag fitted with a small tip, carefully fill each bite with the creamy cinnamon filling you made earlier. Serve these warm and enjoy every delicious bite!
Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Cream Cheese Bites with friends or family—they’re sure to be a hit! 😍
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
You can use low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind that it might result in a slightly different texture and flavor. Full-fat cream cheese gives the filling a creamier and richer taste.
What Can I Use Instead of Vegetable Oil for Frying?
You can substitute vegetable oil with canola oil or peanut oil, both of which have high smoke points and will fry the bites nicely. Avoid using olive oil, as its lower smoke point may affect the frying process.
Can I Make the Batter Ahead of Time?
It’s best to make the batter just before frying for the best texture. If you need to prep in advance, you can prepare the cream cheese filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to fry the bites.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer to retain some of their crispiness; microwaving may make them soggy.