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Crispy Cotton Candy Cheesecake Bombs Recipe

4.7 from 51 reviews

Crispy Cotton Candy Cheesecake Bombs are indulgent, bite-sized treats featuring a creamy cotton candy-infused cheesecake center encased in a crispy graham cracker dough shell. These decadent fried bombs are coated with a cotton candy-flavored candy melt and finished with a sprinkle of crushed cotton candy for a whimsical, melt-in-your-mouth dessert experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheesecake Filling

  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup cotton candy, crushed

Dough

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 3 large eggs

Coating and Frying

  • 2 cups cotton candy-flavored candy melts
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)
  • Additional crushed cotton candy for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and crushed cotton candy. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated, creating a creamy cheesecake filling.
  2. Chill the Filling: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cheesecake filling for about 30 minutes to firm up, making it easier to handle when assembling.
  3. Make the Dough: In a separate large bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until evenly combined.
  4. Add Eggs: Gradually add the eggs to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until a dough begins to form and can be shaped without sticking excessively.
  5. Divide the Dough and Assemble: Remove the chilled filling from the fridge. Take a small piece of dough and flatten it in your hand. Spoon about one tablespoon of the cheesecake filling into the center, then carefully wrap the dough around the filling, sealing it completely.
  6. Shape the Bombs: Roll each filled dough ball gently between your palms to create a smooth, round cheesecake bomb. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat until all filling and dough are used.
  7. Freeze the Bombs: Transfer the assembled cheesecake bombs to the freezer and chill for 15 minutes. This step firms up the bombs, helping them maintain shape during frying.
  8. Heat Oil: In a deep fryer or a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat the frying oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accurate temperature for crispy, evenly cooked bombs.
  9. Fry the Bombs: Carefully lower the frozen cheesecake bombs into the hot oil in batches. Fry each batch for 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  10. Coat with Candy Melts: Melt the cotton candy-flavored candy melts according to package instructions, usually by microwaving in intervals with stirring. Dip each fried bomb into the melted candy, ensuring full coverage.
  11. Garnish: Immediately sprinkle additional crushed cotton candy on top of the coated bombs before the candy melt hardens, for a charming decorative touch.
  12. Serve: Allow the candy coating to set and harden for a few minutes at room temperature, then enjoy your crispy cotton candy cheesecake bombs!

Notes

  • Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing and a smooth filling.
  • Chilling the filling and bombs helps maintain shape during frying and prevents leaking.
  • Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F for perfect, crisp texture—too hot will burn the exterior; too cool will result in greasy bombs.
  • Use a deep-frying thermometer for accuracy.
  • Be gentle when wrapping the dough to avoid cracks which can cause filling leakage.
  • The crushed cotton candy garnish is optional but highly recommended for visual appeal and extra flavor.
  • Can be made ahead: freeze the assembled bombs and fry them directly from frozen when ready to serve.

Keywords: cotton candy cheesecake bombs, fried cheesecake balls, crispy cheesecake dessert, cotton candy dessert, fried desserts, cheesecake bites