8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup cornstarch

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 cup milk

1 egg

Vegetable oil for frying

Cinnamon sugar for coating (optional)

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In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, milk, and egg until smooth.
Scoop about a teaspoon of the cheesecake filling and roll it into small balls. Dip the cheesecake balls into the batter, ensuring they are completely coated.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the coated cheesecake balls into the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Remove the fried cheesecake bites from the oil and drain on paper towels. If desired, immediately coat them in cinnamon sugar while still warm.
Serve the crispy cheesecake bites warm, with a side of chocolate or caramel dipping sauce, if desired.

For fruit-filled bites, add a piece of fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries inside the cheesecake filling.

Drizzle melted chocolate over the fried bites for an extra sweet treat.

For a nutty texture, coat the bites in crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts instead of cinnamon sugar.

Make mini versions by using a smaller scoop to form bite-sized treats.