There's nothing quite like the delightful combination of crispy shells and creamy filling in these Cheesecake Tacos. Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, cinnamon-sugar shell filled with a fluffy, tangy cheesecake mousse and topped with fresh fruit or chocolate drizzle. This dessert is a fun twist on traditional cheesecake and perfect for parties, gatherings, or just when you're in the mood for something different.
The first time I made these, they were an instant hit with family and friends, and they’ve quickly become a go-to treat. So grab your ingredients and let’s get started on this fun, easy-to-make dessert that’s sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love These Cheesecake Tacos
Prepare to fall in love with your new favorite dessert! These Cheesecake Tacos have everything you could want: they’re easy to make, deliciously rich, and can be customized in endless ways.
- Quick & Easy: Don’t be intimidated by their look – these cheesecake tacos are super simple to make! The crispy shells come together fast, and the filling is a no-bake cheesecake mousse that’s light and luscious.
- Perfect Party Treat: These tacos are handheld, making them ideal for parties or gatherings where guests can grab a taco and go. Plus, they’re eye-catching and Instagram-worthy!
- Versatile & Customizable: From fresh berries to chocolate chips, caramel drizzle to crushed nuts, you can customize each taco to suit your cravings. It’s also a great way to let guests make their own dessert by choosing toppings.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the idea of dessert tacos, and they’re a blast to make together. Roll the shells in cinnamon sugar, pipe in the filling, and watch them disappear.
Whether you're looking for a unique dessert to wow your guests or just want to enjoy a fun baking project, these cheesecake tacos are the perfect choice!
Ingredients Notes
Each ingredient in these Cheesecake Tacos plays a crucial role in creating the perfect blend of crispy texture and creamy sweetness.
- Tortillas – Soft, small tortillas make the ideal shells. I recommend using 6-inch flour tortillas because they’re the perfect size for individual dessert tacos. Frying them creates that crispy crunch we’re looking for.
- Cream Cheese – The heart of the cheesecake filling! For best results, use full-fat cream cheese at room temperature, which helps it blend smoothly without lumps.
- Heavy Cream – This is whipped into the filling to make it light and airy. Make sure it's cold for the best volume and fluffiness.
- Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness to the filling without the grainy texture of granulated sugar. It also helps stabilize the cheesecake mixture, making it smooth and creamy.
- Cinnamon & Sugar – Rolling the freshly fried taco shells in a cinnamon-sugar mixture gives them a churro-like flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheesecake filling.
- Toppings – Get creative! Fresh berries, chocolate chips, caramel or chocolate drizzle, crushed nuts, and even a dusting of powdered sugar all make excellent additions.
You'll also need a frying pan and pastry bags for filling the tacos with the cheesecake mixture.
How To Make These Cheesecake Tacos
Making these Cheesecake Tacos is a fun and rewarding process. Let’s break it down step by step.
- Prepare the Tortilla Shells
Start by heating a couple of inches of oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. While the oil heats, cut each tortilla into taco-sized rounds (you can use a round cookie cutter if you want them smaller). Carefully place each tortilla in the oil, using tongs to fold them into a taco shape. Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, then immediately roll each shell in cinnamon sugar while still warm. - Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until combined. In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fluffy. Transfer the filling to a pastry bag for easy filling. - Fill the Tacos
Once the taco shells have cooled, pipe the cheesecake filling into each shell. Be generous – the more filling, the better! Hold each shell carefully to prevent it from cracking as you fill it. - Add Your Toppings
Now for the fun part! Decorate your cheesecake tacos with your favorite toppings. Fresh berries, mini chocolate chips, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar all make beautiful and delicious choices. - Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your cheesecake tacos immediately for the best crunch and flavor. They’re best enjoyed the same day they’re made, as the shells may soften if left for too long.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), here’s how to store your Cheesecake Tacos.
- Refrigerator – Store filled tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the shells will start to soften over time. If you know you’ll be storing them, consider keeping the filling and shells separate, then fill the tacos just before serving.
- Freezing – It’s not recommended to freeze the filled tacos, as the creamy filling may separate upon thawing. However, you can freeze the shells for up to 1 month and fill them when ready to eat.
- Make Ahead – You can make the cheesecake filling up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This makes assembly even faster!
To re-crisp softened taco shells, warm them in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes before filling.
Variations and Substitutions
The possibilities for customizing these Cheesecake Tacos are endless. Here are a few ideas to get you started!
- Chocolate Cheesecake Tacos – Add 2-3 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the cheesecake filling for a rich chocolate version. Top with chocolate chips or chocolate shavings for a decadent touch.
- Fruit-Filled Tacos – Mix chopped strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries into the cheesecake filling for a fruity twist. Top with fresh fruit for a bright and fresh flavor.
- Nutty Crunch – Add crushed nuts like pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts to the top of each taco for a bit of crunch. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce pairs perfectly with the nuts.
- Caramel Cheesecake Tacos – Swirl a few tablespoons of caramel sauce into the cheesecake filling and top with an extra drizzle of caramel.
- Dulce de Leche Tacos – Substitute dulce de leche for some of the sugar in the filling, giving your tacos a caramelized, sweet flavor that’s irresistible.
Feel free to get creative with these cheesecake tacos – each variation brings its own delicious twist. Enjoy experimenting and finding your favorite combination!
These Cheesecake Tacos are the perfect dessert to make and share with family and friends. With their irresistible crispy shells and creamy, customizable filling, they’re sure to be a hit!
PrintCheesecake Tacos Recipe
These cheesecake tacos are a delightful twist on classic cheesecake, featuring crispy shells filled with creamy cheesecake filling and topped with your favorite fresh fruits or sweet toppings. Perfect for parties, these easy-to-make cheesecake tacos offer a unique dessert experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 tacos 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup sugar, divided
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh fruit or sweet toppings (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Combine ½ cup sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Brush tortillas lightly with water and sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Drape tortillas over the oven rack to shape and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
- In a large bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Beat cream cheese, remaining sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth, then fold into whipped cream.
- Pipe cheesecake mixture into cooled taco shells and top with fruit or other toppings.
- Serve immediately for best texture.
Notes
- For added crunch, lightly fry tortillas in oil before coating with cinnamon sugar.
- Top with strawberries, blueberries, chocolate chips, or caramel drizzle for a customizable finish.
- Keep refrigerated if not serving immediately, but fill shells just before serving to maintain crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 140mg
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