Xangos, also known as Mexican fried cheesecake chimichangas, are a delicious, indulgent dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the satisfying crunch of fried dough. This dessert has its origins in Mexico but has quickly spread worldwide, finding its place in Mexican restaurants, food festivals, and even home kitchens. Whether you’re a dessert lover looking for your next sweet obsession or a curious home cook eager to try something new, this guide will take you through everything you need to know about Xangos. From their history and cultural significance to variations, serving suggestions, and expert tips, by the end of this article, you’ll be ready to make Xangos like a pro.
The Origins of Xangos: A Sweet Twist on Tradition
Chimichangas and Xangos: The Evolution of a Classic
The word “chimichanga” usually refers to a savory, deep-fried burrito filled with ingredients like beans, meat, and cheese. However, in the case of Xangos, the chimichanga gets a sweet twist. Filled with a rich, creamy cheesecake mixture and fried to golden perfection, Xangos are a dessert lover’s dream come true.
While the exact origin of Xangos is unclear, they are believed to have been created in Mexico, where fried desserts are a staple. From churros to buñuelos, Mexico’s love for fried treats is well-established, and Xangos are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary.
Xangos Around the World
Xangos have gained popularity worldwide, particularly in Mexican restaurants and food trucks in the United States. Their appeal lies in their simplicity and versatility—Xangos are quick to make, can be customized with various fillings, and always leave a lasting impression. Their crispy exterior, creamy center, and sweet garnishes make them a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Want to explore more iconic Mexican dishes? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Birria Tacos to dive deeper into the world of Mexican cuisine.
Ingredients for Making Xangos at Home
Core Ingredients
To make Xangos at home, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Flour tortillas (large size): The base of the Xango, providing the crispy outer layer when fried.
- Cream cheese (softened): The rich, creamy filling that makes Xangos so decadent.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the cheesecake filling.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the filling and gives it a sweet, aromatic boost.
- Powdered sugar: For dusting the finished Xangos, adding sweetness and a touch of elegance.
- Ground cinnamon: Mixed with the powdered sugar for a warm, spicy aroma and flavor.
- Vegetable oil: For frying the Xangos to a golden brown.
- Butter: Used for frying, adding extra flavor to the tortillas.
Optional Toppings and Fillings
While the classic Xango recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways to customize this dessert to suit your tastes:
- Chocolate sauce or caramel sauce: Drizzled over the finished Xangos for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Fresh fruit: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries can be added to the filling or used as a topping for a fruity twist.
- Nutella or chocolate chips: Adding Nutella to the filling or sprinkling chocolate chips inside can make the Xangos even more indulgent.
- Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream is a classic addition to any dessert.
If you enjoy cheesecake-based desserts, you might also want to try our Ultimate Blackberry Cheesecake Recipe, which offers a similar creamy richness with a fruity twist.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Xangos
Making Xangos at home is easy, and the results are sure to impress. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy. The key to a perfect cheesecake filling is making sure it’s free of lumps, so take your time to ensure the mixture is well blended.
If you want to add fruit or other fillings, now is the time to fold them into the cheesecake mixture. Popular options include fresh berries, Nutella, or chocolate chips.
Step 2: Assemble the Xangos
Take your flour tortillas and lay them flat on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the cheesecake filling into the center of each tortilla. To avoid overfilling, aim for about 2-3 tablespoons of filling per tortilla.
Once the filling is in place, fold the tortillas burrito-style, tucking in the edges as you roll. This will help keep the filling contained during frying. You can use a little water to moisten the edges and seal the tortilla.
Step 3: Fry the Xangos
Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of tortilla into the oil—if it sizzles and bubbles immediately, the oil is ready.
Carefully place the filled tortillas into the hot oil, frying each Xango until it turns golden brown and crispy. Be sure to turn the Xangos occasionally so they cook evenly on all sides. The process should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
Once fried, remove the Xangos from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once the Xangos have cooled slightly, dust them with a mixture of powdered sugar and cinnamon for a sweet, fragrant garnish. For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle the Xangos with chocolate or caramel sauce. You can also serve them with fresh fruit, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Looking for more sweet treats to try? Our Strawberry Earthquake Cake Recipe offers another visually stunning and delicious dessert option that’s sure to be a hit.
Xango Variations: Get Creative with Your Dessert
While traditional Xangos are filled with cheesecake, there are many ways to put your own spin on this delicious dessert. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Chocolate Xangos
For chocolate lovers, adding chocolate to the cheesecake filling is a must. You can fold cocoa powder or melted chocolate into the cream cheese mixture for a rich, chocolatey flavor. Another option is to sprinkle chocolate chips into the filling before rolling the tortillas.
To take it a step further, drizzle the fried Xangos with chocolate sauce or melted Nutella for an extra layer of decadence. Chocolate Xangos are a great option for those who prefer their desserts on the richer, sweeter side.
Nutella Xangos
If you love the combination of hazelnuts and chocolate, Nutella Xangos are a fantastic variation to try. Simply spread a layer of Nutella onto the tortilla before adding the cheesecake filling. When fried, the Nutella melts into the cheesecake mixture, creating a deliciously gooey filling that pairs perfectly with the crispy tortilla.
Nutella Xangos can also be served with fresh strawberries or bananas for a fruit-chocolate combination that’s hard to resist.
For another dessert option featuring rich, indulgent flavors, check out our Blueberry Cheesecake Rolls Recipe. It’s another crowd-pleasing recipe that balances sweet and tart flavors.
Fruit-Filled Xangos
If you’re looking for a lighter variation of Xangos, try adding fresh fruit to the filling. Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries all work well and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cheesecake filling. Simply chop the fruit into small pieces and fold it into the cream cheese mixture before assembling the Xangos.
You can also serve fruit-filled Xangos with a fruit compote or sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
For more fruity dessert inspiration, try our Make Perfect Earl Grey Cookies at Home recipe. These fragrant cookies pair beautifully with tea and make a great addition to any dessert spread.
Savory Xangos
While Xangos are traditionally a sweet dessert, there’s no reason you can’t try a savory version. To make savory Xangos, substitute the cheesecake filling with savory ingredients like ricotta cheese, spinach, or even shredded chicken. Fry the tortillas as usual, and serve with a tangy sauce like pesto or salsa verde.
If you’re intrigued by the idea of fusion dishes, you might enjoy our Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Recipe. This recipe combines Italian and Argentinian flavors for a bold, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress.
Serving Suggestions for Xangos
Xangos are best served warm, right after frying, when the tortilla is still crispy, and the filling is soft and creamy. Here are some ideas for how to serve Xangos to make them even more special:
Pairing Xangos with Ice Cream
A scoop of vanilla ice cream is the perfect complement to the warm, crispy Xangos. The contrast between the hot fried tortilla and the cold ice cream creates a delightful balance of temperatures and textures. You can also try serving Xangos with flavored ice creams like chocolate, cinnamon, or caramel.
Adding a Fruity Twist
For a lighter, fruitier option, serve Xangos with a berry compote or fresh fruit. The tangy flavor of the berries helps to balance out the richness of the cheesecake filling, creating a more complex and satisfying dessert.
To add a touch of elegance, consider serving your Xangos with a fruit sauce, such as raspberry or blueberry, drizzled over the top.
Experimenting with Garnishes
While powdered sugar and cinnamon are classic garnishes for Xangos, don’t be afraid to get creative. You can top your Xangos with crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or even edible flowers for an eye-catching presentation. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of sea salt can also add a unique flavor twist.
For more creative dessert ideas, take a look at our Ultimate Guide to Chicken Brine, which offers tips on how to enhance flavors with simple ingredients.
Storing and Reheating Xangos
Mexican fried cheesecake are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat them, place the Mexican fried cheesecake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This will help restore their crispy texture.
Avoid reheating Mexican fried cheesecake in the microwave, as this can make the tortillas soggy.
More Storage Tips: Homemade Sandwich Bread
If you’re interested in more tips on how to store homemade baked goods, check out our Easy Homemade Sandwich Bread Recipe. This recipe includes storage tips to keep your bread fresh for days.
Nutritional Information for Xangos
While Xangos are undoubtedly a treat, it’s important to be mindful of the nutritional content. Here’s a general breakdown for one Xango (without additional toppings):
- Calories: 450-500
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 5-6g
- Sugar: 20g
Mexican fried cheesecake are best enjoyed in moderation, making them a perfect dessert for special occasions or as a sweet indulgence to share with friends and family.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try Xangos
Mexican fried cheesecake are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into an extraordinary dessert. Whether you prefer them in their classic form or with creative variations like Nutella or fruit fillings,Mexican fried cheesecake are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Looking for more delicious desserts? Check out our Strawberry Earthquake Cake Recipe or Ultimate Blackberry Cheesecake Recipe for more indulgent options.
Now that you know how to make this delightful dessert at home, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re serving Mexican fried cheesecake for a family gathering or just treating yourself, one thing’s for sure: Mexican fried cheesecake are a sweet sensation you’ll want to make again and again.