Mango and Cream Cheese Turon: A Tropical Twist on a Classic Filipino Snack
**Turon**, a popular Filipino snack, is a delicious, crispy treat typically made with sliced bananas (usually saba), wrapped in a spring roll wrapper, and fried to golden perfection. It’s often sweetened with sugar and sometimes includes a touch of jackfruit for added flavor. While the traditional version is beloved, there’s always room for a modern twist, and that’s where **Mango and Cream Cheese Turon** comes in.
This variation elevates the classic turon with the luscious, tropical flavors of fresh mango and the creamy richness of cream cheese. The combination of sweet, ripe mangoes and velvety cream cheese creates a perfect contrast to the crisp, golden wrapper. Whether you’re craving a refreshing snack, a unique dessert, or a special treat for a gathering, Mango and Cream Cheese Turon is sure to impress your family and friends.
Not only does this version offer a delightful balance of sweetness and creaminess, but it’s also an easy recipe that adds a twist of sophistication to the beloved Filipino favorite. Here’s everything you need to know to create this delicious fusion treat.
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**Ingredients for Mango and Cream Cheese Turon**
#### For the filling:
– **2 large ripe mangoes** (choose sweet, soft varieties like Carabao or Ataulfo, as they are naturally sweet and juicy)
– **1/2 cup cream cheese** (softened, to make it easier to spread)
– **1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk** (to sweeten the cream cheese and make it extra rich)
– **1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract** (optional, for added flavor)
– **Pinch of salt** (to balance the sweetness of the mangoes and cream cheese)
– **1/4 cup shredded coconut** (optional, for added texture and flavor)
#### For wrapping and frying:
– **10-12 spring roll wrappers** (available in most Asian supermarkets; make sure to use the thinner variety, not the thicker lumpia wrappers)
– **1/4 cup sugar** (for caramelizing the wrappers during frying)
– **Cooking oil** (for frying, preferably vegetable or canola oil)
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**Instructions**
**Step 1: Prepare the Mangoes**
Begin by peeling the mangoes and slicing them into thin strips. You want the mango pieces to be thin enough to fit into the spring roll wrappers, but not too thin that they break apart during rolling. After peeling, slice the mango into long strips or cubes, depending on your preference. Make sure the mangoes are ripe, as they will add the natural sweetness and juiciness that will complement the cream cheese perfectly.
**Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling**
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of salt. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. The cream cheese will provide a rich, tangy contrast to the sweet mangoes, while the condensed milk will add a touch of sweetness and help bind the filling together. For an extra layer of texture and flavor, you can mix in shredded coconut, which pairs beautifully with the tropical fruit.
**Step 3: Assemble the Turon**
To assemble the turon, lay out the spring roll wrappers on a clean, flat surface. If the wrappers are square, place them at an angle, so it resembles a diamond shape. Start by spreading a small spoonful of the cream cheese mixture along the center of the wrapper. Then, place a few slices of mango on top of the cream cheese filling.
Fold the bottom of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides, ensuring the filling is securely enclosed. Continue rolling the wrapper tightly, but be careful not to roll too tightly, as this can cause the wrapper to tear. Use a small dab of water or a flour paste along the top edge of the wrapper to seal it shut.
**Step 4: Fry the Turon**
Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a frying pan over medium heat. You’ll need enough oil to submerge the turon halfway while frying, so make sure the pan is deep enough to accommodate the spring rolls.
While the oil is heating up, sprinkle the sugar on a plate. This will be used to coat the turon as it fries, giving it a caramelized, crunchy exterior.
Once the oil is hot (test by dropping a small piece of wrapper into the oil—it should bubble up immediately), carefully place the wrapped turon in the oil, seam side down. Fry the turon in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each piece for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to flip them gently so that they cook evenly.
After frying, immediately roll the hot turon in the sugar to give them that signature sweet, crunchy coating. The sugar will caramelize as it cools, adding to the crispy texture.
**Step 5: Drain and Serve**
Once the turon is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving, as the filling will be very hot straight from the fryer.
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**Serving Suggestions**
Mango and Cream Cheese Turon is best enjoyed while it’s still warm and crispy. Here are some ways to serve this delightful snack:
1. **As a Dessert:** Serve as a unique dessert after a meal. The richness of the cream cheese filling combined with the sweetness of the mango and caramelized sugar makes for a perfect treat.
2. **With Ice Cream:** For an extra indulgent dessert, serve your turon with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or coconut-flavored ice cream. The cold ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm, crispy turon.
3. **With Coffee or Tea:** This snack is a great accompaniment to a hot cup of coffee, cappuccino, or Filipino *tsokolate* (hot chocolate). The combination of flavors and textures makes it an excellent choice for an afternoon treat or merienda.
4. **For Special Occasions:** Mango and Cream Cheese Turon is a fantastic snack to serve at parties, gatherings, or celebrations like birthdays or holidays. Its tropical, festive flavors make it stand out from other traditional treats.
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**Why You’ll Love Mango and Cream Cheese Turon**
– **Unique Flavor Combination:** The pairing of sweet, juicy mangoes with rich, creamy cheese inside a crispy wrapper is an irresistible combination. The tanginess of the cream cheese perfectly balances the natural sweetness of the mango.
– **Simple to Make:** While it sounds like a gourmet treat, Mango and Cream Cheese Turon is surprisingly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and a bit of preparation, you can create an impressive snack or dessert.
– **Perfect for Any Occasion:** Whether you’re making a quick snack for yourself or preparing a special treat for a party, this mango turon will undoubtedly be a hit. It combines the best of Filipino street food with tropical flair, making it suitable for all kinds of gatherings.
– **Crispy, Sweet, and Creamy:** The crispy exterior, combined with the sweet mangoes and creamy cheese filling, offers a delightful texture contrast in every bite. It’s a bite-sized indulgence that you can enjoy anytime.
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**Tips and Variations**
– **Mango Substitute:** If you can’t find ripe mangoes, you can substitute with other tropical fruits like peaches, papayas, or even berries for a twist. For a more traditional flavor, you can stick with the classic saba banana, but the mango brings a unique richness to the filling.
– **Cheese Alternatives:** You can use other types of cheese for the filling, such as mascarpone, ricotta, or even sweetened cream cheese for a different flavor profile. If you want a stronger cheese flavor, try adding a bit of cream cheese and sharp cheddar.
– **Make-Ahead Option:** You can prepare the turon rolls ahead of time and freeze them for later use. Just assemble and freeze the wrapped turon in an airtight container. When ready to cook, fry them straight from the freezer—no need to thaw!
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**Conclusion**
Mango and Cream Cheese Turon is a delightful, tropical twist on the classic Filipino snack. With its combination of ripe mango, creamy cheese, and crispy, caramelized wrapper, it’s a treat that’s sure to satisfy both sweet and savory cravings. Perfect for merienda, dessert, or special occasions, this modern take on turon will undoubtedly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it with a cup of coffee on a lazy afternoon, Mango and Cream Cheese Turon is a delicious reminder of the joy that simple, flavorful food can bring. Try it today and savor the sweet, tropical goodness in every bite!
