Strawberry Cheesecake Donuts Recipe

Few desserts manage to combine the whimsy of a donut with the creamy decadence of cheesecake, but strawberry cheesecake stuffed donuts achieve this feat with grace. These indulgent treats offer the best of both worlds—soft, fluffy donuts bursting with a rich, tangy cheesecake filling and a sweet strawberry glaze to top it all off. Perfect for any celebration or as a weekend baking project, these donuts will win over anyone with a sweet tooth.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and ease. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, these donuts are approachable and rewarding to make. By the end of this blog, you’ll have a set of golden-brown, freshly stuffed donuts ready to wow your family or friends.

In this post, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know, from gathering the ingredients to mastering the techniques. Plus, we’ll share valuable tips to help you avoid common mistakes and ensure your donuts are perfect every time.

What You’ll Need

Before diving into the recipe, let’s ensure your kitchen is stocked with everything required. This includes not only the ingredients but also the tools you’ll need for mixing, frying, and assembling these stuffed donuts. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

• 2 ¾ cups (345 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup (120 ml) warm milk (around 110°F)
• 2 large eggs
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream
• ½ cup (100 g) powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Glaze:

• 1 cup (200 g) powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp strawberry puree (made from fresh or frozen strawberries)
• 1–2 tsp milk (adjust for consistency)
• Optional: Red food coloring for a more vibrant pink hue

Tools Needed

1. Mixing bowls
   You’ll need separate bowls for the donut dough, filling, and glaze.
2. Stand mixer or hand mixer
   Perfect for kneading the dough and whipping up the cheesecake filling.
3. Rolling pin
   To flatten the dough before cutting.
4. Donut cutter or circular molds
   Ensures evenly sized donuts for uniform frying.
5. Candy thermometer
   Essential for maintaining the right oil temperature while frying.
6. Piping bag with a round tip
   For neatly filling the donuts with the cheesecake mixture.
7. Slotted spoon or tongs
   To safely transfer the donuts from the hot oil.
8. Baking sheet lined with paper towels
   Allows the donuts to drain excess oil.

How to Make

Making strawberry cheesecake stuffed donuts involves a few steps, but each one is straightforward and fun. From preparing the dough to frying and stuffing, this process promises delicious results. Follow the detailed instructions below, and you’ll have a batch of perfect donuts in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the yeast:
   In a small bowl, mix warm milk and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. If the yeast doesn’t bubble, it may be inactive, so start over with fresh yeast.
2. Mix the dry ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients:
   Make a well in the center of the dry mixture. Pour in the yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix until a dough begins to form.
4. Knead the dough:
   Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–7 minutes on medium speed.
5. Proof the dough:
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Shape and Fry the Donuts

1. Roll out the dough:
   Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to about ½-inch thickness.
2. Cut the donuts:
   Use a donut cutter or two circular molds (one for the outer circle, one smaller for the center) to cut out donut shapes. For this recipe, you can also keep the centers intact for easier stuffing.
3. Second proof:
   Place the cut donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a towel and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
4. Heat the oil:
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy thermometer to maintain the temperature throughout frying.
5. Fry the donuts:
   Fry 2–3 donuts at a time, flipping them after 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Filling and Glaze

1. Prepare the cheesecake filling:
   In a bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag with a round tip.
2. Make the strawberry glaze:
   Mix powdered sugar and strawberry puree in a small bowl. Add milk 1 teaspoon at a time until the glaze reaches your desired consistency. For extra vibrancy, add a drop of red food coloring.

Step 4: Assemble the Donuts

1. Fill the donuts:
   Use a skewer or knife to poke a small hole in each donut. Insert the piping bag tip into the hole and gently fill the donut with the cheesecake mixture.
2. Glaze the donuts:
   Dip the tops of the filled donuts into the strawberry glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

Strawberry cheesecake stuffed donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but there are ways to store and serve them to maintain their deliciousness for as long as possible.

Serving Suggestions

1. Fresh is best:
   Serve the donuts warm or at room temperature shortly after glazing for the freshest experience.
2. Pairing options:
   Accompany the donuts with a steaming cup of coffee, tea, or a tall glass of cold milk. Their sweetness balances beautifully with the robust flavors of these beverages.
3. Presentation ideas:
   Arrange the donuts on a tiered dessert stand or a platter lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle some powdered sugar or garnish with fresh strawberry slices for a sophisticated touch.

Storing Your Donuts

1. Short-term storage:
   If you plan to eat them within a day, place the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration, as it can make the donuts dense.
2. Refrigeration for longer storage:
   If keeping for more than a day, store the donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Before serving, bring them to room temperature for the best texture.
3. Freezing tips:
   Unfilled donuts can be frozen for up to a month. Once cooled, wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes. Avoid freezing filled or glazed donuts, as the filling and glaze may lose their texture.

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Mistakes to Avoid

Making strawberry cheesecake stuffed donuts is a rewarding process, but a few common pitfalls can impact the final results. Here’s how to steer clear of these mistakes to ensure your donuts turn out soft, flavorful, and visually stunning.

Mistake 1: Overproofing or Underproofing the Dough

• Why it matters: Proofing the dough allows the yeast to create air pockets, giving the donuts their light and fluffy texture. Overproofed dough becomes too airy and collapses, while underproofed dough results in dense, chewy donuts.
• How to avoid it: Check your dough regularly during the proofing stages. It should double in size but not overflow the bowl or lose its structure. Press a finger gently into the dough; if the indentation springs back slowly, it’s ready.

Mistake 2: Using the Wrong Oil Temperature

• Why it matters: Frying donuts at too low a temperature makes them greasy, while oil that’s too hot can burn the outside before the inside cooks through.
• How to avoid it: Always use a candy thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. Aim for 350°F (175°C) and adjust the heat as necessary. Fry a test donut to ensure even cooking.

Mistake 3: Overloading the Fryer

• Why it matters: Adding too many donuts at once drops the oil temperature, leading to uneven frying and soggy donuts.
• How to avoid it: Fry in small batches, leaving enough space for the donuts to float and expand. Allow the oil to return to the correct temperature between batches.

Mistake 4: Rushing the Filling Process

• Why it matters: Filling the donuts requires precision to avoid splitting the dough or uneven distribution of the cheesecake mixture.
• How to avoid it: Use a piping bag with a small round tip for control. Insert the tip carefully into the donut and fill slowly to avoid bursting.

Mistake 5: Overmixing the Glaze

• Why it matters: Overmixing can result in a glaze that’s too thin or difficult to set.
• How to avoid it: Mix the glaze gently until smooth and adjust the consistency with small amounts of milk or powdered sugar as needed.

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Tips and Tricks

Creating perfect strawberry cheesecake stuffed donuts requires a mix of technical know-how and creativity. These handy tips and tricks will elevate your baking game and ensure consistently delicious results.

Tip 1: Use Room Temperature Ingredients

• Why it works: Room temperature ingredients, like eggs, butter, and cream cheese, blend more easily into the dough and filling, resulting in a smoother texture.
• How to do it: Take your ingredients out of the refrigerator 30–60 minutes before you start.

Tip 2: Customize the Flavors

• Why it works: Personalizing the recipe allows you to tailor the donuts to your taste or a specific occasion.
• How to do it:
  • Add lemon zest to the cheesecake filling for a tangy kick.
  • Infuse the strawberry glaze with a touch of almond or orange extract for a unique twist.

Tip 3: Make Ahead for Convenience

• Why it works: Prepping components ahead of time saves effort and ensures better organization.
• How to do it:
  • Prepare the cheesecake filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
  • Make the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the fridge for the first proof.

Tip 4: Experiment with Shapes

• Why it works: Changing the shape of your donuts can make them more fun or suitable for specific themes.
• How to do it: Instead of traditional round donuts, try heart-shaped cutters for Valentine’s Day or smaller sizes for bite-sized treats.

Tip 5: Master the Glaze Dip

• Why it works: A good glaze coating ensures that the donuts look as amazing as they taste.
• How to do it: Dip each donut halfway into the glaze, then gently rotate it to ensure an even coating. Allow the glaze to drip off before setting the donut on a cooling rack.

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Suggestions

Strawberry cheesecake stuffed donuts are a delightful treat on their own, but with a little creativity, you can make them even more exciting. Whether you’re customizing the recipe or serving them with complementary items, these suggestions will help elevate your baking game.

Flavor Pairing Ideas

1. Chocolate Drizzle
   • Melt some semisweet chocolate and drizzle it over the strawberry glaze. The rich, slightly bitter chocolate pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy flavors.
2. Nutty Toppings
   • Sprinkle crushed pistachios, almonds, or hazelnuts over the glaze for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
3. Citrus Infusion
   • Add a touch of lemon or orange zest to the cheesecake filling for a refreshing citrusy twist.
4. Herbal Enhancements
   • Incorporate fresh basil or mint into the strawberry puree for an aromatic glaze.

Serving Suggestions

1. Create a Dessert Platter
   • Arrange the donuts alongside fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and a bowl of melted chocolate. Guests can customize their own treats.
2. Pair with Beverages
   • Serve the donuts with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or a refreshing glass of strawberry lemonade. For a cozy twist, pair them with a creamy hot cocoa.
3. Special Occasion Themes
   • Decorate the donuts with colorful sprinkles or edible glitter to match a party theme, like red and green for Christmas or pastels for a baby shower.

Variations to Try

1. Mixed Berry Filling
   • Swap out the strawberry glaze and puree for a mixed berry blend of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries.
2. Vegan Version
   • Replace dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, vegan cream cheese, and coconut oil.
3. Mini Donuts
   • Use a smaller cutter to make bite-sized versions, perfect for serving at gatherings or as a fun snack for kids.

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FAQ

To ensure your strawberry cheesecake stuffed donuts turn out perfectly and to address any potential concerns, here are answers to some frequently asked questions about this recipe.

1. Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?

• Yes! While frying gives donuts their classic texture, baking is a healthier alternative. Place the shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown. Brush the baked donuts with melted butter for added flavor before glazing.

2. How do I keep my donuts fresh longer?

• For short-term storage, place the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. For longer storage, refrigerate filled donuts in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze unfilled donuts as outlined in the earlier Serving and Storage Tips section.

3. Can I make the dough without a stand mixer?

• Absolutely. While a stand mixer makes kneading easier, you can knead the dough by hand. It may take a little longer (about 8–10 minutes), but the results will be just as delicious.

4. Why is my glaze too runny or too thick?

• If the glaze is too runny, add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it thickens. If it’s too thick, thin it with milk, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

5. Can I use frozen strawberries for the glaze?

• Yes, frozen strawberries work just as well as fresh ones. Thaw them before blending into a puree, and adjust the sweetness if needed since frozen berries can be slightly tart.

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Conclusion

Strawberry cheesecake stuffed donuts are a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts, offering a unique combination of flavors and textures. The fluffy, golden-brown donut encases a creamy cheesecake filling, while the sweet strawberry glaze adds a fruity finish that is both visually appealing and irresistibly delicious.

Whether you’re making these for a special occasion, a weekend treat, or just because, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends. From the satisfaction of working with yeast dough to the joy of piping in the cheesecake filling, each step offers a rewarding experience for bakers of all skill levels.

By following the tips, tricks, and suggestions provided, you can customize this recipe to suit your tastes or adapt it for different dietary needs. Avoiding common mistakes will ensure a flawless final product, and serving ideas will make your donuts the star of any dessert spread.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the delicious world of homemade strawberry cheesecake stuffed donuts. Your kitchen will be filled with the warm aroma of freshly fried dough and the sweet scent of strawberries in no time.

Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with us! What’s your favorite variation or tip for making stuffed donuts? Let us know in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you.

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