I love how easy and fun this dessert is to make. It combines the rich flavor of cheesecake with the comforting crispiness of a quesadilla. The cream cheese and strawberries are a classic pairing, and the cinnamon sugar topping makes each bite taste like a dessert taco dream. Best of all, I can whip this up with just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp granulated sugar (plus more for topping)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup diced fresh strawberries
4 6-inch flour tortillas
2 tsp butter (for pan and tortilla)
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Strawberry sauce (for serving)
Directions
I start by mixing the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
I gently fold in the fresh diced strawberries, being careful not to mash them.
I spread a generous layer of the cheesecake filling on one tortilla, making sure to leave a bit of space around the edges.
In a skillet over medium-high heat, I melt 1 teaspoon of butter and place the filled tortilla (cheesecake side up) into the pan.
I spread butter on a second tortilla and place it butter-side up on top of the first.
I cook the quesadilla for about 2–3 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until both sides are golden and crisp.
While it’s still hot, I sprinkle it with a mix of cinnamon and sugar.
I let it sit for 2 minutes to set, then slice it into wedges and serve with strawberry sauce.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2 quesadillas, which yields about 4 servings. From start to finish, it takes only 20 minutes—10 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking. It’s a fantastic last-minute dessert option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Variations
Sometimes I drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the top for a richer twist. I’ve also served it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for that hot-and-cold contrast. For an extra burst of berry flavor, I use a spoonful of strawberry jam along with the fresh berries inside. And when I want to switch things up, I swap the strawberries for blueberries or raspberries.
Storage/Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed fresh while the tortilla is still crispy and the filling is warm. If I have leftovers, I store them in the fridge for up to one day, wrapped in foil. To reheat, I warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side until heated through and crispy again. I avoid the microwave—it tends to make the tortillas soggy.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
I prepare the cheesecake filling in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Then I assemble and cook the quesadillas fresh when ready to serve.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
I don’t recommend it. Frozen strawberries release too much liquid and can make the filling watery and the quesadilla soggy.
What kind of tortillas work best?
I use soft, 6-inch flour tortillas—they crisp up perfectly and hold the filling well. Corn tortillas don’t work as well for this sweet version.
How do I make it even more indulgent?
I sometimes add mini chocolate chips to the filling or serve it with a drizzle of chocolate or a scoop of ice cream.
Can I bake these instead of pan-frying?
Yes, I’ve baked them at 375°F for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. They come out slightly less crispy but still delicious.
Conclusion
Strawberry Cheesecake Quesadillas are the kind of dessert I turn to when I want something quick, sweet, and a little bit special. With their creamy filling, crisp edges, and sweet strawberry flavor, they’re always a hit—whether I’m treating myself or sharing with guests.
These crispy strawberry cheesecake quesadillas are golden on the outside and creamy on the inside. A quick, indulgent dessert that’s ready in just 20 minutes!
Author:Ella
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:2 quesadillas (about 4 servings)
Category:Dessert
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Fusion
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp granulated sugar (plus more for topping)
½ tsp vanilla extract
½ cup diced fresh strawberries
4 (6-inch) flour tortillas
2 tsp butter (for pan and tortillas)
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Strawberry sauce (for serving)
Instructions
In a bowl, beat together cream cheese, 2 tbsp sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gently fold in diced strawberries.
Spread a generous layer of the filling onto one tortilla, leaving space around the edges.
Heat 1 tsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the filled tortilla, cheesecake side up, into the pan.
Spread another tortilla with butter and place it, butter-side up, on top of the first tortilla.
Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, gently pressing, until golden and crispy.
Mix cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl, then sprinkle over the hot quesadilla.
Let sit for 2 minutes, slice into wedges, and serve with strawberry sauce.
Notes
Use room-temperature cream cheese for smoother mixing.
Only use fresh strawberries to avoid excess moisture.
Filling can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge.
Try drizzling with chocolate, caramel, or serve with vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.