Save This sweet breakfast wrap has become my morning salvation on busy weekdays when I need something quick but still want to feel like I'm treating myself. The combination of tangy cherries with creamy cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla delivers all the satisfaction of a cherry cheese danish with half the effort.
I created these wraps one morning when I had leftover cherry pie filling from weekend baking. My children now request these "cherry roll-ups" at least once a week, and I'm happy to oblige since they take so little time to prepare.
Ingredients
- Ricotta cheese: 1 cup provides the creamy base and adds protein to keep you satisfied through the morning
- Cream cheese softened: 2 tbsp adds richness and helps bind the filling together
- Cherry pie filling: 1 cup the star of the show with its sweet tart flavor
- Large flour tortillas: 4 choose the freshest ones possible for best rolling results
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp enhances the sweetness without adding sugar
- Ground cinnamon: 1/2 tsp adds warmth and complements the cherries perfectly
- Honey: 1 tbsp optional but wonderful for balancing the tanginess of the cherries and ricotta
- Powdered sugar: for dusting gives a bakery style finish
- Fresh mint leaves: optional but adds a pop of color and fresh flavor contrast
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese mixture:
- Combine ricotta cheese, softened cream cheese, vanilla extract, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Mix thoroughly until completely smooth with no lumps remaining. This creates the creamy base that balances the sweetness of the cherries. If using honey, fold it in now, tasting as you go to achieve your desired level of sweetness.
- Assemble the wraps:
- Lay out your tortillas on a clean work surface. Spread about 1/4 cup of the cheese mixture onto each tortilla, making sure to leave approximately one inch border around the edges. This border prevents filling from escaping when you roll them up. The cheese mixture should be spread evenly but not too thickly.
- Add the cherry filling:
- Spoon 1/4 cup of cherry pie filling down the center of each tortilla in a straight line. Resist the temptation to add more filling as it will make the wraps difficult to roll and may cause them to burst during cooking. Make sure to distribute the cherries evenly throughout the filling.
- Roll the wraps:
- Fold the bottom edge of each tortilla up over the filling, then fold in both sides toward the center. Continue rolling from the bottom until you have a tight cylinder with the seam on the bottom. Press gently to seal. If the wrap seems loose, you can secure it with a toothpick before cooking.
- Heat the wraps:
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. No oil is necessary if your pan is truly nonstick. Place each wrap seam side down in the pan and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown and slightly crisp. Flip carefully and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes on the other side. The heat helps seal the wrap and warms the filling to a delightful temperature.
- Serve and garnish:
- Transfer the warmed wraps to a cutting board and slice diagonally with a sharp knife. Arrange on plates and dust lightly with powdered sugar using a fine mesh sieve. Add a sprig of fresh mint if desired. Serve immediately while warm and the tortilla is still crisp on the outside and soft inside.
Save The cherry filling is truly what makes these wraps special. I discovered this combination after a summer cherry picking trip left me with homemade cherry preserves that needed using. The slight tartness of cherries against the creamy cheese mixture creates a perfect balance that keeps these wraps from being overly sweet for breakfast.
Make Ahead Options
These cherry breakfast wraps are perfect for meal prep. You can assemble them completely, wrap individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to two days. When ready to eat, simply unwrap and heat in a skillet for 2 minutes per side. The texture is actually better when the flavors have had time to meld overnight.
For longer storage, prepare the wraps but do not cook them. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to one month. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then cook in a skillet as directed. The ricotta mixture may separate slightly after freezing, but the flavor remains delicious.
Variations To Try
While cherry is my family's favorite version, this recipe works beautifully with nearly any pie filling. Blueberry creates a more subtle flavor perfect for those who find cherry too intense. Apple pie filling with a pinch of extra cinnamon makes these taste like mini apple pies. For a tropical twist, try pineapple pie filling with a sprinkle of shredded coconut in the cheese mixture.
For a more decadent version, try adding 2 tablespoons of chocolate hazelnut spread to the cheese mixture before adding the cherry filling. The combination tastes like a chocolate covered cherry in breakfast form. During fall, pumpkin pie filling with pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon creates a seasonal treat that tastes like pumpkin cheesecake.
Serving Suggestions
These cherry wraps pair beautifully with a variety of beverages and sides. A strong cup of coffee provides a pleasant bitter contrast to the sweet filling. For children, a cold glass of milk balances the richness perfectly. For brunch gatherings, serve alongside a simple fruit salad of melon and berries to complement the cherry flavor.
For a more substantial breakfast, add a side of vanilla or honey Greek yogurt for dipping. The tangy yogurt creates a delightful contrast to the sweet wraps. When serving for dessert rather than breakfast, a scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms these wraps into an elegant but simple finale to any meal.
Save These cherry breakfast wraps are a delightful way to enjoy a sweet treat any time of day. They are a perfect balance of tangy fruit and creamy cheese, encased in a warm tortilla.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → Can I use a different fruit filling?
Absolutely. You can substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry, apple, or any favorite fruit filling for a unique twist.
- → What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
Greek yogurt is a great alternative, offering a tangier flavor and a creamy texture similar to ricotta.
- → How do I make the wraps crispier?
Brush the outside of the wraps with melted butter before pan-searing for a golden, crispy finish.
- → Are these wraps suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these wraps use only vegetarian ingredients. Just double-check the cherry filling for added animal products.
- → Can I prepare them ahead of time?
The filling can be mixed in advance, but assemble and heat the wraps just before serving for best texture.