Craving a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat? Cherry Cheesecake Tacos are your sweet ticket to happiness! Imagine golden, crispy tortillas dusted in cinnamon sugar, stuffed with a light and creamy cheesecake filling, and crowned with luscious cherry pie topping. This crowd-pleasing twist on classic cheesecake delivers all the dreamy flavors and textures you love, but in a playful, hand-held form that’s perfect for parties, holidays, or any time you want to treat yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
These Cherry Cheesecake Tacos come together with everyday ingredients, but each one brings its own magic to the table. From silky cream cheese to tangy cherry filling and that irresistible cinnamon sugar crunch, everything plays a part in making these little tacos utterly addictive.
- 8 small flour tortillas: These become your ‘taco shells,’ offering the perfect soft-yet-crispy base for the cheesecake filling.
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted): Brushing tortillas with melted butter helps them bake up golden and adds rich flavor.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and crunch to the shell when mixed with cinnamon.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Classic bakery flavor that gives warmth and color to every bite.
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): The heart of your creamy cheesecake filling—softening makes it easier to whip smooth.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling without any graininess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings out those iconic cheesecake notes with just a splash.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped and folded in for a fluffy, mousse-like filling.
- 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling: Juicy, tart cherries and glossy sauce make the perfect topping.
How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Tacos
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Shells
Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Brush both sides of each tortilla generously with melted butter, then shower them with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Gently fold the tortillas in half, and place them between the cups of an upside-down muffin tin. This easy trick helps the tortillas bake up in a fun, scoopable taco shell shape!
Step 2: Bake Until Golden and Crisp
Slide the muffin tin into your hot oven and bake the tortillas for about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the shells are done when they turn golden and smell fragrant. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely before filling. This cooling step ensures your shells stay crisp and sturdy.
Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling
While the shells cool, it’s time for the best part: the creamy cheesecake center! In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and velvety. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until completely combined and silky. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until you get firm, fluffy peaks, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture. This extra step makes your filling light, billowy, and luscious.
Step 4: Assemble Your Cherry Cheesecake Tacos
Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling into the cooled taco shells, making them as full and generous as your heart desires. Top each with a spoonful of cherry pie filling, making sure every bite will get a burst of that sweet-tart cherry flavor. Once assembled, pop the tacos into the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes—this helps the filling set and makes every bite that much more satisfying.
How to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Tacos
Garnishes
For a restaurant-worthy finish, try sprinkling your Cherry Cheesecake Tacos with a dusting of powdered sugar or a few white chocolate curls. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for color, or dip the shell edges in melted white chocolate and roll in crushed graham crackers for an extra-crunchy twist. Each taco can look like a tiny, edible work of art!
Side Dishes
These tacos shine on their own, but if you want to build an entire dessert spread, pair them with fresh fruit salad, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or serve alongside coffee or espresso. Their creamy, fruity profile balances beautifully with almost any sweet treat or beverage.
Creative Ways to Present
Cherry Cheesecake Tacos are made for sharing! Arrange them upright in a taco holder or nestled on a platter, each one standing tall with its cherry topping proudly on display. For a playful touch, set up a build-your-own taco bar with different pie fillings and toppings, so everyone can customize and get creative.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Cherry Cheesecake Tacos (a rare miracle), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within 2 days, as the shells may begin to soften from the creamy filling.
Freezing
You can freeze the cheesecake filling separately for up to a month, but it’s best to assemble the tacos fresh to ensure the shells stay crisp. Freezing already-filled tacos will yield a soggier shell, so stick to filling only what you’ll serve immediately if you’re planning ahead.
Reheating
While the assembled Cherry Cheesecake Tacos are served chilled, if you want to revive the shells’ crunch, you can pop the empty shells in a 350°F oven for a few minutes to crisp them up before filling. Avoid reheating the filled tacos, as the cheesecake filling is best served cold.
FAQs
Can I use a different fruit filling for these tacos?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and swap the cherry pie filling for blueberry, strawberry, apple, or even a mix of your favorites. Each variation brings its own character and color to these fun dessert tacos.
What’s the best way to keep the taco shells crisp?
Let the shells cool completely before filling, and only fill just before serving. If you’re making them in advance, store the shells in an airtight container at room temperature until you’re ready to assemble the Cherry Cheesecake Tacos.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Just substitute your favorite gluten-free small tortillas for the flour tortillas. The baking time and process remain the same, so everyone can enjoy these tasty treats.
Is it possible to make a lighter version?
You can make a lighter version by using reduced-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping in place of heavy cream. Keep in mind the texture may be a bit less rich, but the flavor will still be delicious and satisfying.
How can I make mini Cherry Cheesecake Tacos for a party?
Simply use street taco-size tortillas or even cut standard tortillas into smaller rounds. Follow the same steps, but keep an eye on baking time as smaller shells crisp up faster. These bite-size treats are perfect for dessert platters and parties!
Final Thoughts
These Cherry Cheesecake Tacos are pure joy in every bite—crispy, creamy, fruity, and so much fun to make. Whether you serve them at a party or as a special family treat, don’t be surprised if everyone comes back for seconds. Give them a try and watch your dessert game soar!
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Cherry Cheesecake Tacos Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 8 tacos
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a delightful twist on traditional cheesecake with these Cherry Cheesecake Tacos. Crispy cinnamon sugar-coated taco shells filled with a creamy no-bake cheesecake mixture and topped with a luscious cherry pie filling.
Ingredients
Taco Shells:
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Toppings:
- 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Prepare Taco Shells: Preheat oven to 400°F. Mix sugar and cinnamon. Brush tortillas with butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, fold in half, shape into taco shells over muffin tin cups, and bake until golden.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mix. Whip heavy cream to stiff peaks, fold into cream cheese.
- Assemble Tacos: Fill taco shells with cheesecake mixture, top with cherry pie filling. Chill before serving.
Notes
- Try different pie fillings like blueberry or strawberry.
- For added texture, dip taco edges in white chocolate and coat with crushed graham crackers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
