Strawberry Cheesecake Quesadilla

This Strawberry Cheesecake Quesadilla captures all the creamy tang and fresh berry sweetness of a classic dessert but wraps it up in a warm crisp tortilla for an easy treat anytime I want something special in minutes

I first tried this as a quick dessert after a taco night and it instantly became my favorite way to use extra strawberries on hand

Ingredients

• Cream cheese: This creates that signature rich tangy layer for the cheesecake feel Let it soften fully so it blends smooth for easy spreading
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps give a caramel crust on the outside Use superfine sugar if possible for best texture
• Cinnamon: Brings a gently spiced aroma that works magic with strawberries and cheese Freshly ground cinnamon makes a real difference
• Vanilla extract: Boosts the classic cheesecake flavor Choose pure vanilla for the richest taste
• Flour tortilla: The canvas that crisps up into dessert heaven Fajita size or similar makes folding and flipping easy
• Strawberries: Fresh berries add juicy bursts of brightness Look for berries that are firm deep red and fragrant for the sweetest flavor
• Butter: The secret to a golden crisp outside Just a little makes that sugar layer toast perfectly
• Honey: Optional but wonderful for a blooming floral finish Drizzle just before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:

Mix softened cream cheese with one teaspoon of sugar and a dash of cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth and creamy This will create a sweet tangy layer for your quesadilla

Prep the Strawberries:

Hull and slice your strawberries into thin pieces so they distribute easily in the quesadilla Set aside for easy assembly

Spread and Assemble:

Lay your flour tortilla flat Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over one side of the tortilla getting close to the edges so every bite gets filling

Heat the Pan:

Place a nonstick skillet over medium heat Melt half the butter so it coats the bottom of the pan but does not brown

Build Flavorful Base:

Sprinkle one teaspoon of sugar and a dash of cinnamon over the melted butter Directly place the plain side of the tortilla into the skillet so the seasoned butter and sugar will caramelize on the outside

Add Strawberries and Cook:

Quickly arrange the sliced strawberries across the cream cheese side inside the tortilla Keep the berries in an even layer for balanced sweetness and texture

Watch and Fold:

Lift an edge occasionally to peek underneath As soon as the bottom is golden brown and the sugar is melted into a crust remove the skillet from the heat and fold the quesadilla in half so the filling stays tucked in

Serve and Enjoy:

Transfer to a plate Drizzle with honey if using Serve warm while the outside is crispy and the inside creamy and sweet

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I find myself reaching for the cream cheese more and more after discovering how creamy and dreamy it tastes with strawberries It is now a running joke in my house that everything can become cheesecake if I am involved

Storage Tips

Store any leftover quesadilla covered in the fridge for up to a day Reheat in a dry skillet over medium heat to crisp it up again Avoid microwaving as it will make the tortilla soggy If you want to prep ahead you can make the cream cheese filling up to two days early and assemble just before cooking

Ingredient Substitutions

No fresh strawberries Use raspberries blueberries or even thinly sliced peaches Want to make it lighter Try neufchâtel cheese or whipped cottage cheese for a lower fat option If you prefer a gluten free version swap for your favorite gluten free tortilla

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dessert quesadilla on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side If you are feeling extra festive top with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers It is also delicious alongside a cup of hot coffee or iced tea

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Cultural Context

Inspired by both American cheesecake and Mexican quesadillas this recipe bridges comfort food and global flair It is a sweet riff on the traditional quesadilla that highlights just how versatile tortillas can be for both savory and sweet treats This is the kind of dish that quickly becomes a family classic

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of cream cheese is best to use?

Full-fat cream cheese creates the richest texture, but reduced-fat works as well for a lighter taste.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries offer better texture, but thawed and well-drained frozen berries can be substituted if needed.

→ How do I prevent the quesadilla from burning?

Use medium heat and watch the sugar closely; caramelize until golden, then remove from the pan right away.

→ Is there a substitute for honey drizzle?

Try maple syrup, agave, or a light dusting of powdered sugar for different flavors.

→ Can this be prepared ahead?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the filling ahead and assemble just before cooking.