Xango dessert. Just the name sounds exotic and delicious, doesn’t it? This crispy, creamy treat is a real showstopper, and surprisingly easy to make! It’s a fried pastry filled with a sweet, creamy cheesecake filling, then dusted with cinnamon sugar. Imagine biting into a warm, crispy shell that gives way to a cool, creamy center. Pure heaven!
This delightful dessert has its roots in Mexican cuisine. Some say it started as a way to use leftover tortillas and cheesecake filling. Clever, right? For a similar dessert using tortillas, try these delicious recipes. Whether you’re familiar with xango dessert or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.
My kids absolutely adore xango. It’s the perfect ending to a special meal, and sometimes it’s even our weekend breakfast treat! The combination of crispy and creamy textures is a winner every time. I learned this recipe from my mom, and she learned it from her mom. It’s a true family treasure, and now I’m sharing it with you.
Why This Xango Dessert Recipe is the Best
What makes this xango dessert recipe stand out? It’s all about simplicity and amazing results. I’ve streamlined the process so it’s easy for anyone to make, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. Forget complicated dough recipes! This one uses store-bought flour tortillas, so you can focus on the delicious filling and the perfect fry.
My secret? A quick pan-fry that creates an unbelievably crispy exterior while keeping the inside perfectly creamy. You won’t believe how easy it is to achieve that golden-brown, crunchy shell everyone loves. This xango dessert recipe is all about maximum flavor with minimum fuss. If you enjoy fried treats, you might also like this Southern cornbread recipe.
Ingredients for the Perfect Xango Dessert
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this amazing xango dessert. I’ve kept the ingredient list simple and easy to find at your local grocery store.

For the Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (I prefer Philadelphia brand for its creamy texture)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Dough:
- 6 large flour tortillas (burrito size works best)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil for frying (or canola oil)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Tips for Ingredients:
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
- You can substitute the vanilla extract with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
- For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in the filling. Looking for other ways to use brown sugar? Check out this granola recipe.
Step-by-Step Xango Dessert Recipe Instructions
Ready to make some xango magic? Let’s get started! These step-by-step instructions will guide you through the process.
1. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. This is easiest with an electric mixer, but you can do it by hand too. Just make sure there are no lumps. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined. Set the filling aside.
2. Assemble the Xangos:
Lay out a flour tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the cheesecake filling onto the center of the tortilla. Don’t overfill, or it might leak out during frying. Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then tightly roll it up like a burrito. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
3. Heat the Oil:
Pour the vegetable oil into a large skillet over medium heat. You want enough oil to shallow fry the xangos, about 1/4 inch deep. To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a tiny piece of tortilla into the oil. It should sizzle gently. For tips on frying, see this guide on healthy cooking oils.
4. Fry the Xangos:
Carefully place 2-3 xangos in the hot oil, seam-down. Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to gently turn them over. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn.
5. Drain and Coat:

Remove the fried xangos from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. While they’re still warm, combine the sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish. Gently roll each xango in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your xangos warm. They’re delicious on their own, or you can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat. Enjoy! For more dessert inspiration, explore these healthy dessert options.
Tips and Variations for Your Xango Dessert
Want to take your xango dessert to the next level? Here are some tips and variations to try:

Tips for Xango Perfection:
- Crispy Crust: For an extra crispy crust, double fry the xangos! Fry them once as directed, then let them cool slightly. Fry them again for a minute or two per side until extra golden and crunchy.
- Prevent Leaky Filling: Make sure your cream cheese filling is thick and not too runny. Don’t overfill the tortillas, and seal the edges tightly when rolling. Frying over medium heat also helps prevent the filling from bursting out. If you’re looking for other easy dessert recipes, this kefir sheet cake is a great option.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet xango, reduce the amount of sugar in the filling and the cinnamon-sugar coating.
Flavor Adventures:
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix some melted chocolate chips or cocoa powder into the cheesecake filling. You can even drizzle melted chocolate over the finished xangos. My son is a chocoholic, so this is his favorite!
- Nutella Mania: Spread a thin layer of Nutella on the tortilla before adding the cheesecake filling. This adds a nutty, chocolatey twist. My daughter can’t get enough of this version.
- Fruity Delight: Use fruit preserves or pie filling instead of the cheesecake filling. Apple, cherry, and blueberry are all delicious options. This is a great way to use up leftover jam. My husband loves the tartness of the fruit with the sweetness of the pastry.
- Topping Sensations: Get creative with toppings! Whipped cream, ice cream, chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, fresh fruit, and chopped nuts are all fantastic additions.
Have fun experimenting with different flavors and toppings to create your own signature xango dessert! If you enjoy experimenting with flavors, you might also like this Chex mix recipe.
FAQ: All About Xango Dessert
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about xango dessert:
What is a Mexican xango?
Xango is a delicious fried dessert with roots in Mexican cuisine. It typically consists of a flour tortilla filled with a sweet, creamy cheesecake filling, then fried to a crispy golden brown and coated in cinnamon sugar. While its exact origins are debated, it’s a popular treat in Mexico and the Southwestern United States, often served as a celebratory dessert or a sweet ending to a meal.
How do you pronounce Xango dessert?
Xango is pronounced “SAN-go.” The “x” is pronounced like an “s,” and the emphasis is on the first syllable. You might also hear it pronounced “HAN-go” in some regions, but “SAN-go” is the most common pronunciation.
What does xangos mean in English?
“Xangos” itself doesn’t have a direct English translation. It’s simply the name of this delightful dessert. It’s possible the name comes from a person or place, but the specific meaning remains a bit of a mystery, adding to its charm!
How healthy is Xango dessert?
Let’s be honest, xango is a treat! It’s rich in calories and fat from the frying and creamy filling. It’s definitely not an everyday health food. But that’s okay! Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Sharing a xango with family or friends is a great way to savor this special dessert without overindulging.
Serving and Storing Your Xango Dessert
Xango dessert is best served warm, right after frying, when the outside is crispy and the inside is perfectly creamy.
Serving Suggestions:

- Classic: Dust with powdered sugar and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm xango.
- Fruity Fiesta: Serve with a side of fresh berries or a light fruit salad. The fruit adds a refreshing touch and balances the richness of the xango.
- Coffee Break: Enjoy your xango with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. It’s the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
- Sweet Drizzle: Drizzle with chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or honey for an extra layer of sweetness.
Storing Leftovers:
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
The best way to reheat xango is in a toaster oven or air fryer. This helps restore the crispy exterior. Heat for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the crust might soften slightly. Either way, reheated xango is still a delicious treat!
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