🍓 Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches 🍓
Ingredients
For the Cream Cheese Spread:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Sandwich Assembly:
8 slices of brioche bread (or thick-cut white bread)
1 cup fresh strawberries, thinly sliced
½ cup strawberry jam or preserves
For the Batter:
¾ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup whole milk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
A pinch of salt
For Frying:
Vegetable oil, enough for deep frying
For Serving:
¼ cup sweetened condensed milk (optional, for drizzling)
Fresh strawberries, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Assemble the Sandwiches: Lay out the slices of bread on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture onto four slices of bread. Top each with a few slices of fresh strawberries and a small dollop of strawberry jam. Cover with the remaining slices of bread to form sandwiches. Press gently to seal.
Make the Batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, egg, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and salt until smooth and free of lumps.
Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or pot, ensuring it’s about 1-2 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
Coat and Fry: Dip each sandwich into the batter, ensuring both sides are fully coated. Carefully lower the battered sandwich into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the sandwiches with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Drizzle and Serve: Drizzle the warm sandwiches with sweetened condensed milk for added sweetness. Cut each sandwich diagonally and serve with fresh strawberries on the side for a pop of color and freshness.