Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes: A Sweet and Creamy Delight

If you’re a fan of donuts and cheesecake, then you’re in for a real treat! Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes combine the rich, creamy flavors of strawberry cheesecake with the soft, fluffy texture of donut holes. This delightful combination makes them the perfect dessert or snack for any occasion, from a special Easter brunch to a casual afternoon treat.

In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to make the perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes. From the key ingredients and their roles to preparation time, step-by-step cooking instructions, expert tips, presentation ideas, creative twists, and FAQs, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

To make Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes, you’ll need the following key ingredients. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that deliciously rich, creamy, and fluffy donut hole that will keep you coming back for more.

1. All-Purpose Flour

Role: All-purpose flour serves as the base for the donut dough, providing the structure and texture needed for light, fluffy donut holes.
Tip: Measure your flour properly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off to avoid using too much, which can result in dense donut holes.

2. Baking Powder

Role: Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the donut holes rise and become light and airy.
Tip: Make sure your baking powder is fresh for optimal results. If it’s old, it won’t produce the same rise.

3. Granulated Sugar

Role: Sugar sweetens the donut dough, giving the donut holes that perfect sweetness.
Tip: You can adjust the amount of sugar to your preference, but don’t cut it out completely, as it’s essential for the donut flavor.

4. Salt

Role: Salt enhances the sweetness and balances out the flavors in the donut dough.
Tip: Be sure to use the right amount of salt, as too little can make the dough taste flat.

5. Ground Cinnamon

Role: Ground cinnamon adds a warm, spiced flavor to the donut holes, making them taste comforting and familiar.
Tip: If you love cinnamon, feel free to add a bit more to suit your taste.

6. Whole Milk

Role: Whole milk provides moisture to the donut dough, ensuring that it’s soft and tender.
Tip: You can substitute with low-fat or dairy-free milk, but whole milk gives the best flavor and texture.

7. Unsalted Butter

Role: Butter adds richness to the donut dough, contributing to its soft texture.
Tip: Always use unsalted butter so you can control the amount of salt in the recipe.

8. Eggs

Role: Eggs act as a binder, holding all of the ingredients together while adding moisture and richness to the donut holes.
Tip: Use room temperature eggs for the best results, as they mix into the dough more easily.

9. Vanilla Extract

Role: Vanilla extract adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to the donut dough that complements the rich strawberry cheesecake filling.
Tip: Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.

10. Strawberry Jam or Pureed Strawberries

Role: This ingredient adds the fruity, tangy flavor of strawberries that makes these donut holes taste like cheesecake with a fresh strawberry topping.
Tip: For a more intense strawberry flavor, use fresh strawberries that have been pureed.

11. Cream Cheese

Role: Cream cheese is the star ingredient for the cheesecake filling. It provides a tangy and creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the donut dough.
Tip: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing, as it will incorporate more easily.

12. Powdered Sugar

Role: Powdered sugar is used in the cheesecake filling to sweeten it and give it a smooth, creamy texture.
Tip: If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can add more powdered sugar to taste.

13. Heavy Cream

Role: Heavy cream is used to create a smooth, creamy filling for the cheesecake and helps balance out the sweetness.
Tip: Use full-fat heavy cream for the best texture and richness.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Ingredients of Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes

For the Donut Holes:

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¾ cup whole milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup strawberry jam or pureed strawberries

For the Cheesecake Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons strawberry jam or pureed strawberries

For Coating:

½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Step-by-Step “Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes” Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or a donut hole pan with cooking spray to prevent the donut holes from sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could result in dense donut holes.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin

Spoon the donut dough into the mini muffin tin or donut hole pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full. If you’re using strawberry jam or pureed strawberries, place a small spoonful of the strawberry mixture into the center of each donut hole.

Step 6: Bake the Donut Holes

Bake the donut holes for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

While the donut holes are baking, make the cheesecake filling. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Stir in the strawberry jam or pureed strawberries until well combined.

Step 8: Fill the Donut Holes

Once the donut holes have cooled slightly, use a small spoon or piping bag to fill each one with the cheesecake filling. If you prefer a stuffed donut hole, cut a small hole in the center of each donut and pipe in the filling.

Step 9: Coat the Donut Holes

In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Roll each filled donut hole in the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweet, flavorful coating.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the soft, fluffy texture of the donut hole with the creamy, tangy cheesecake filling and the sweetness of the strawberry jam.

Expert Tips for Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes

Don’t Overmix the Dough – Overmixing the donut dough can result in dense, tough donut holes. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients – To ensure the cream cheese and butter incorporate smoothly, make sure both are softened to room temperature before mixing.
Use Fresh Strawberries – For a fresh, vibrant flavor, consider using fresh strawberries instead of store-bought jam. Just blend the strawberries to a smooth consistency.
Don’t Skip the Cinnamon Sugar Coating – The cinnamon-sugar coating is what gives these donut holes their signature flavor. Make sure to coat them while they’re still warm for the best taste.
Try a Mini Muffin Tin – If you don’t have a donut hole pan, a mini muffin tin works just as well for creating perfectly round donut holes.

Presentation Tips

Serve on a Decorative Plate – For a festive touch, serve your Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes on a colorful plate or platter. Add fresh mint leaves or sliced strawberries for added decoration.
Dust with Powdered Sugar – For a light and elegant look, dust the donut holes with powdered sugar just before serving.
Pair with Fresh Strawberries – Arrange a few fresh strawberries alongside the donut holes to highlight the fruity flavor and enhance the presentation.

Creative Twists for the best Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes

Chocolate Drizzle – Drizzle melted chocolate over the donut holes for a rich, indulgent twist.
Berry Cheesecake Filling – Try using blueberry or raspberry jam in the filling for a different berry-flavored cheesecake donut hole.
Baked Donuts – Instead of frying, bake the donut holes for a healthier version of this treat.
Mini Cheesecake Donut Bites – Instead of filling each donut hole, make mini cheesecakes by filling cupcake liners with donut dough and cheesecake filling.

Pro Tip for Customization

Feel free to customize the filling by adding mix-ins such as chocolate chips, chopped strawberries, or even a swirl of fruit preserves. The possibilities are endless, and the donut holes will still taste amazing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes in advance?

Yes, you can make the donut holes ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature. For the freshest taste, fill them with the cheesecake filling just before serving.

Can I freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes?

Absolutely! To freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes.

Can I use other fruit in the filling?

Yes! You can swap out the strawberry jam for other fruit preserves or puree, such as raspberry, blueberry, or peach. The possibilities are endless for different flavor combinations!

How do I keep the cheesecake filling from spilling out?

If you’re worried about the cheesecake filling spilling out, pipe it carefully into the center of each donut hole. You can also cut a small hole in the top of the donut to help prevent leaks.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes are a delightful and unique treat that combine the best of both worlds: the fluffiness of donuts and the creamy richness of cheesecake. They’re perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert, and offer endless opportunities for customization. So, gather your ingredients, follow our simple instructions, and enjoy this irresistible, bite-sized treat today!