Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes Recipe
Delight in these luscious Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes, featuring soft donut dough filled with a creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberry mixture. These bite-sized treats are fried or baked to golden perfection and generously coated in sugar for a sweet, irresistible finish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 donut holes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Donut Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp salt
Cheesecake Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Strawberries
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
Topping
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar, for coating
- Vegetable oil, for frying (if frying method chosen)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter, then knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in the finely chopped strawberries, mixing gently to combine.
- Form Donut Holes: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into small portions. Flatten each piece into a small disc, place a teaspoon of the cheesecake-strawberry filling in the center, and seal the dough around it to form a ball, making sure the filling is enclosed.
- Cook the Donut Holes: Frying option: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the donut holes in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels. Baking option: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place donut holes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Coat with Sugar: While still warm, roll the donut holes in granulated sugar until fully coated. Allow to cool slightly before serving for the best texture and taste.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh strawberries with strawberry preserves or jam for a different texture.
- For a lighter version, opt for baking instead of frying.
- Use cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
- Ensure oil temperature is steady when frying to prevent greasy donut holes.
- Store leftover donut holes in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently before serving.
Keywords: Strawberry, Cheesecake, Donut Holes, Dessert, Fried Donuts, Sweet Treat, Berry Filling
