Step-by-step instructions
Ready to make your Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes? Follow these simple steps:
Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until everything is smooth. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries. Transfer this mixture to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip and refrigerate it until you’re ready to fill the donuts.
Make the batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; lumps are okay!
Fry the donut holes: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan to a temperature of 350°F (175°C). Use a small cookie scoop or a spoon to carefully drop the batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels.
Fill the donuts: Once the donut holes have cooled slightly, take your piping bag and inject each donut with the strawberry cheesecake filling.
Sugar coat them: In a shallow bowl, mix granulated sugar with ground cinnamon if you like a spice kick. Roll each filled donut hole in this sugar mixture until fully coated. Serve warm, and enjoy the luscious filling!
Best ways to enjoy it
These dessert gems are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer, warm and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. You can serve them with a side of whipped cream, or sprinkle some extra fresh strawberries on top for a refreshing touch. For beverages, a cup of coffee or berry-infused iced tea perfectly complements the rich sweetness of these donuts. They also make a fantastic surprise gift for friends who appreciate homemade treats!
Storage and reheating tips
Want to save some for later? You can keep any leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer preservation, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to one month. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) for that fresh-from-the-fryer taste.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few handy tricks to help make your donut holes even better:
- Temperature check: Use a thermometer to ensure your oil hits the right temperature for frying. This prevents greasy donuts from uneven cooking.
- Batch frying: Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature.
- Cooling time: Allow the donut holes to cool slightly before filling; this helps prevent the cream cheese filling from melting away.
Creative twists
Feel free to give these donut holes your personal touch. Consider swapping strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a different fruity filling. You could also drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce over them for an added layer of richness. For a brunch-themed treat, a lemon cream cheese filling might add a refreshing zing!
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
From start to finish, you can expect to spend about 1 hour making these delicious donut holes, including filling and frying time.
Can I use different fruits for the filling?
Absolutely! You can experiment with various berries like raspberries, blueberries, or even diced peaches for a different flavor profile.
Are these donut holes suitable for freezing?
Yes! They can be frozen for up to a month. Just make sure they are fully cooled and stored in an airtight container before freezing.
Now, get ready to don your apron, roll up your sleeves, and surprise your family with a batch of these Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes! Happy frying!
