### Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches

**Description:**
Indulge in these delightful Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches, featuring a creamy cheesecake filling with fresh strawberries, all encased in crispy, golden-brown bread. Perfect for brunch or a sweet treat!

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**Ingredients:**
– **For the Cheesecake Filling:**
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

– **For the Sandwiches:**
– 8 slices of bread (white or brioche works best)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Extra powdered sugar, for dusting

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**Instructions:**

**1. Preparing the Filling:**
– In a medium mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese. Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
– Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
– Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue to mix until well combined and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
– Gently fold in the sliced strawberries, keeping some pieces intact for texture.

**2. Preparing the Bread:**
– Lay out the slices of bread on a clean surface.
– Spread a generous amount of the cheesecake filling on one side of each slice, leaving space around the edges.
– Top half of the slices with another slice of bread, pressing down gently to create a sandwich.

**3. Breading the Sandwiches:**
– Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
– Dip each sandwich into the flour, coating both sides and shaking off excess.
– Next, dip the floured sandwich into the beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage.
– Finally, press the sandwich into the breadcrumb mixture, covering both sides completely. Repeat for all sandwiches.

**4. Cooking Process:**
– In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about 1/4 inch. Heat over medium until hot (test with a small piece of bread).
– Carefully place a few sandwiches in the hot oil, frying for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
– Use a slotted spatula to transfer cooked sandwiches to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
– Repeat frying with remaining sandwiches, adding more oil as needed.

**5. Assembling and Serving:**
– Dust fried sandwiches with extra powdered sugar.
– Cut each sandwich in half diagonally to reveal the filling.
– Serve warm, optionally with fresh strawberries or whipped cream for dipping.

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**Notes:**
– For a richer flavor, consider using brioche bread.
– Adjust the amount of powdered sugar for the filling based on your sweetness preference.
– Serve immediately for the best texture.

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**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 15 minutes
**Total Time:** 35 minutes
**Yield:** 8 sandwiches

Enjoy your delicious Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches!