Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes
Introduction
Have you ever craved something sweet that combines the fluffy goodness of donuts with the creamy delight of cheesecake? If so, you’re in the right place! Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes are the perfect treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. They’re small, bite-sized, and packed with flavor. Plus, they are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
Donut holes are already a beloved snack, and when you add a rich, creamy cheesecake filling and the fresh taste of strawberries, you create a dessert that is simply irresistible. These tasty bites make for a fantastic brunch addition, a delightful dessert for parties, or just a sweet surprise for yourself!
In this article, you will learn how to make these delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes from scratch. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not just about making a simple dessert; it’s about creating an experience. The combination of fluffy donuts and creamy cheesecake filling will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Here are a few reasons why you will love this recipe:
- Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a professional baker to whip these up. The steps are straightforward and easy to follow.
- Deliciously Fillable: The donut holes are versatile. You can mix and match different fillings to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a special celebration, a team gathering, or merely a sweet indulgence at home, these donut holes are ideal for any event.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: This is a fun recipe to make with kids. They will love helping out in the kitchen, especially when it comes to stuffing those donut holes!
How to Prepare Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes
Making Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes is a delightful endeavor. Once you gather your ingredients and set aside some time, you’ll be on your way to creating these delightful treats!
Ingredients
To make Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Donut Holes:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
For the Coating:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Donut Hole Batter
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a mini muffin tin by greasing it with non-stick spray or butter.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 2: Bake the Donut Holes
- Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean when inserted.
- Once baked, let them cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped strawberries to incorporate them into the cheesecake filling.
Step 4: Stuff the Donut Holes
- Once the donut holes have cooled, use a small knife to cut a hole in the center of each donut hole. This hole will be used to stuff them.
- Using a piping bag or a small spoon, fill each donut hole with the cheesecake filling. Be generous; each bite deserves a creamy surprise!
Step 5: Coat the Donut Holes
- In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon (if using).
- Roll each stuffed donut hole in the sugar mixture to coat them lightly.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes
Once your Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes are ready, you can serve them immediately or place them on a platter for your guests to enjoy. They’re perfect on their own, but you can also drizzle some chocolate sauce or serve them with whipped cream for an extra decadent touch. These little treats are sure to impress anyone who tries them!
How to Store Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes
If you have any leftovers (though they will disappear quickly!), store your donut holes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to three days. To enjoy them warm again, you can reheat them briefly in the microwave. However, keep in mind that the texture may slightly change after refrigeration.
Preparation Tips for Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth cheesecake filling.
- Chop Strawberries Small: The smaller the strawberry pieces, the better they incorporate into the filling, and the easier it will be to pipe them into your donut holes.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different fruit fillings or cheesecake flavors. Blueberries, raspberries, or even chocolate can give your donut holes a unique twist.
- Don’t Overmix Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough donuts. Just mix until combined for the best texture.
Variations
While this recipe focuses on strawberry cheesecake filling, you can easily customize it. Here are a few fun variations to try:
- Chocolate Cheesecake Filling: Add cocoa powder to the cream cheese mixture for a chocolatey treat.
- Banana Cream Pie Donut Holes: Substitute strawberries with mashed bananas and add a touch of banana extract.
- Lemon Zest Addition: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cheesecake filling for a refreshing zing.
- Different Fruit Combinations: Mix and match berries or use other fruits like peach or mango for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these donut holes in advance?
Yes, you can make the donut holes the day before and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Stuff them with the cheesecake filling shortly before serving for the best taste and freshness.
2. Can I freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes?
Yes, you can freeze the plain baked donut holes before stuffing them. Once cooled, place them in a single layer in an airtight freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the donut holes and then stuff them with the filling.
3. What is the best way to reheat leftover donuts?
To reheat leftover donut holes, place them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will warm them up nicely without drying them out.
4. Are these donut holes healthy?
While they are indulgent, you can make healthier substitutions, such as using whole wheat flour or reducing the sugar. However, they are a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation.
Conclusion
Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes are the ultimate sweet snack that you can easily make at home. They’re perfect for satisfying your cravings and impressing your friends and family. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find this recipe a delightful way to enjoy a classic dessert.
So, get your baking gear ready, and let’s whip up these tasty treats! The blend of fluffy donut, luscious cheesecake, and sweet strawberries will leave you coming back for more. Enjoy!