If you’re a fan of crispy, creamy, and indulgent desserts, the xango dessert is one sweet treat you need to try. A xango (pronounced shawn-go) is a fried cheesecake chimichanga—a smooth, rich cheesecake filling wrapped inside a tortilla, deep-fried until golden brown, and coated in a warm cinnamon-sugar crust. It’s everything you love about cheesecake with the satisfying crunch of a fried dessert.
Popular in Mexican-inspired restaurants and known for its crowd-pleasing textures and flavors, the xango is a great way to turn everyday ingredients into a restaurant-quality dessert at home. Whether you’re entertaining or just treating yourself, this recipe walks you through how to make a perfect xango dessert—complete with tips for frying, coating, and serving it like a pro.
You’ll get a golden crispy shell, a smooth and creamy filling, and all the sweetness your heart (and sweet tooth) could ask for.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This xango dessert isn’t just delicious—it’s the kind of treat that delivers both texture and flavor in every bite. Here’s why this recipe is bound to become one of your go-to dessert ideas:
1. Crispy Outside, Creamy Inside
The contrast between the warm, crunchy fried tortilla and the smooth cream cheese filling makes each bite unforgettable. It’s the ultimate crispy dessert experience.
2. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
You don’t need any fancy tools or hard-to-find ingredients. This xango dessert recipe uses basics like cream cheese, tortillas, sugar, and cinnamon to create something truly indulgent.
3. Quick to Prepare
From start to finish, these cheesecake chimichangas come together in less than 30 minutes. It’s an easy way to impress guests—or yourself—without spending hours in the kitchen.
4. Perfect for Sharing
Xangos are fun to make and even better to eat with friends and family. Slice and serve with caramel drizzle or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-special presentation.
5. Customizable to Your Taste
Add chocolate chips, Nutella, fresh fruit, or swirl in some caramel sauce to personalize the creamy filling. You can even air-fry them for a lighter twist.
If you’re looking for a dessert that checks every box—easy, rich, crunchy, and creamy—this xango dessert is the one to try next.
Ingredients
You’ll be surprised at how simple it is to make this decadent xango dessert at home. With just a few pantry staples, you can recreate that crispy, creamy, restaurant-style flavor right in your kitchen. Here’s everything you need to get started:
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- (Optional) 1 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra tang
This creates the smooth and creamy cheesecake filling that gives xangos their signature richness.
For the Xango Shells
- 4 large flour tortillas (8 to 10 inches wide)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
The tortilla wraps around the filling and crisps up beautifully when fried. Look for pliable tortillas that won’t crack when folded.
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
This sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture is what gives the xangos their golden sparkle and classic flavor.
Optional Toppings
- Caramel sauce or chocolate sauce, for drizzling
- Scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries or banana slices
These toppings elevate the dessert into a showstopper. A drizzle of caramel and a scoop of vanilla create the perfect finishing touch.
Instructions
This step-by-step recipe will guide you through making perfect xangos at home—from mixing the cheesecake filling to frying the tortillas to golden perfection. Follow these simple directions for a dessert that’s crispy, creamy, and unforgettable.
Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Place the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract into a mixing bowl and combine.
- Using a hand mixer or whisk, mix the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy in texture.
Optional: Add a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a subtle tangy flavor.
Step 2: Fill the Tortillas
- Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
- Spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture into the center.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then tightly roll it up like a burrito, making sure to seal the filling inside.
Tip: Use a toothpick to hold it closed if needed.
Repeat for the remaining tortillas.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
- In a deep skillet or fryer, pour enough oil to cover the tortillas (about 1–2 inches deep).
- Heat the oil over medium heat to 350°F.
Test it by dropping in a small piece of tortilla—it should sizzle right away.
Step 4: Fry the Xangos
- Carefully place one or two rolled xangos into the hot oil seam-side down.
- Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Use tongs to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Repeat with the rest of the rolls. Don’t overcrowd the skillet.
Step 5: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
- While the xangos are still warm, roll them in the prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Make sure all sides are evenly coated for that classic sweet cinnamon-sugar finish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice each xango in half for a clean, gooey reveal.
- Top with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
- Serve immediately while warm and crispy.
Pro Tips and Variations
Want to make sure your xango dessert turns out perfectly every time? These tips and twists will help you get that ideal crispy texture, keep your filling inside, and explore fun flavor upgrades.
Pro Tips
1. Soften the cream cheese completely
Cold cream cheese won’t blend smoothly. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before mixing to ensure a creamy, lump-free filling.
2. Don’t overfill the tortillas
Do not overfill the tortillas; about 2 to 3 tablespoons of filling is the ideal amount. Too much can cause the xango to burst during frying or leak out the sides.
3. Seal tightly
Roll the tortilla like a burrito—fold in the sides, then roll snugly. If you’re worried about it opening during frying, use toothpicks to secure the seam.
4. Make sure the oil is hot
The oil should be around 350°F. If it’s too cool, the xangos will absorb too much oil. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the filling warms through.
5. Roll in cinnamon sugar while hot
The coating sticks best while the xango is still warm. Be generous—this is part of the signature flavor.
6. Drain excess oil
Place fried xangos on a paper towel-lined plate to remove extra oil and keep them crisp.
Fun Variations
• Add chocolate chips
Fold a few mini chocolate chips into the cream cheese filling for a chocolatey surprise.
• Nutella swirl
Mix a spoonful of Nutella into the cheesecake mixture or spread it directly onto the tortilla before rolling.
• Fruit filling
Add a few slices of banana or strawberries to the center for a fruity twist.
• Pumpkin cheesecake xango
For a seasonal variation, mix canned pumpkin and pumpkin spice into the cream cheese filling.
• Air fryer version
Brush the wrapped tortillas with melted butter and cook in an air fryer at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Roll in cinnamon sugar immediately after.
• Make mini xangos
Cut smaller tortillas in half and fill them with a tablespoon of cheesecake mixture for bite-sized party treats.
Serving Suggestions
Once your xango dessert is hot, crispy, and coated in sweet cinnamon sugar, it’s time to plate it in a way that makes it even more irresistible. These serving ideas will help you turn this easy recipe into a show-stopping dessert that feels special every time.
1. Classic with Caramel and Ice Cream
Slice the xango diagonally and place it on a dessert plate. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream next to it and finish with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. The hot-and-cold contrast makes every bite even more satisfying.
2. Chocolate Lover’s Dream
For an extra special touch, serve the xango with a drizzle of chocolate sauce, a sprinkling of chocolate chips, and a dollop of whipped cream. Add a pinch of sea salt on top for a gourmet twist.
3. Fruit and Cream Combo
Top the xango with fresh berries or sliced bananas and a spoonful of whipped cream. This topping adds a refreshing element and helps to balance the richness of the cheesecake filling.
4. Mini Dessert Platter
Cut each xango into smaller pieces and serve alongside churros, fruit skewers, or mini brownies for a fun dessert board.
5. Holiday Style
Dust the xangos with powdered sugar and then drizzle with spiced honey or maple syrup. Add a touch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice to the cinnamon-sugar coating for a festive feel.
6. Serve with Coffee or Espresso
The sweetness of the xango pairs beautifully with the bitterness of a strong cup of coffee or a shot of espresso. It’s a comforting combination perfect for a cozy evening dessert.
Whether you’re serving it simply with ice cream or dressing it up for a party, this fried cheesecake chimichanga makes any meal feel like a celebration.
Conclusion
If you’re searching for a dessert that’s easy to make but unforgettable to eat, this xango dessert is the perfect pick. With its crispy cinnamon-sugar tortilla, rich cream cheese filling, and endless topping options, it brings together all the textures and flavors dessert lovers crave.
Whether you’re serving it after a family dinner, making it for guests, or treating yourself to something special, xangos are a guaranteed hit. The ingredients are simple, the method is fast, and the results are consistently delicious.
This recipe proves that a few pantry staples can create a dessert that feels indulgent, comforting, and restaurant-worthy—all from your own kitchen.
So grab your tortillas, heat up the oil, and give this fried cheesecake treat a try. It might just become your new go-to dessert.
Xango Dessert
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional 1 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra tang
- This creates the smooth and creamy cheesecake filling that gives xangos their signature richness.
For the Xango Shells
- 4 large flour tortillas 8 to 10 inches wide
- Vegetable oil for frying
- The tortilla wraps around the filling and crisps up beautifully when fried. Look for pliable tortillas that won’t crack when folded.
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- This sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture is what gives the xangos their golden sparkle and classic flavor.
Optional Toppings
- Caramel sauce or chocolate sauce for drizzling
- Scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries or banana slices
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Place the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract into a mixing bowl and combine.
- Using a hand mixer or whisk, mix the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy in texture.
- Optional: Add a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a subtle tangy flavor.
Step 2: Fill the Tortillas
- Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
- Spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture into the center.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then tightly roll it up like a burrito, making sure to seal the filling inside.
- Tip: Use a toothpick to hold it closed if needed.
- Repeat for the remaining tortillas.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
- In a deep skillet or fryer, pour enough oil to cover the tortillas (about 1–2 inches deep).
- Heat the oil over medium heat to 350°F.
- Test it by dropping in a small piece of tortilla—it should sizzle right away.
Step 4: Fry the Xangos
- Carefully place one or two rolled xangos into the hot oil seam-side down.
- Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Use tongs to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Repeat with the rest of the rolls. Don’t overcrowd the skillet.
Step 5: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
- While the xangos are still warm, roll them in the prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Make sure all sides are evenly coated for that classic sweet cinnamon-sugar finish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice each xango in half for a clean, gooey reveal.
- Top with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
- Serve immediately while warm and crispy.
Notes
FAQs
What is a Xango dessert?
A xango dessert is a rich, creamy cheesecake filling wrapped in a flour tortilla, then deep-fried until golden and coated in cinnamon sugar. It’s often described as a fried cheesecake chimichanga and is typically served warm with toppings like caramel, chocolate sauce, or ice cream.
What is a Xangos?
“Xangos” is simply the plural form of xango. It refers to multiple servings of this delicious dessert. While the term originated in restaurants, it’s become a popular name for homemade Mexican-inspired fried desserts featuring a cheesecake center and crispy outer shell.
How many calories are in Xango dessert?
The calorie count for a single xango dessert can vary depending on size and toppings, but on average, it ranges from 400 to 600 calories per serving. Adding extras like ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel sauce will increase the total. For a lighter version, consider baking or air frying instead of deep-frying.
