Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes

Description:

These Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes are bite-sized, deep-fried treats filled with a creamy strawberry cheesecake filling. They are crispy on the outside, soft and gooey on the inside, and bursting with sweet, tangy flavor from the cheesecake and strawberries. Coated in cinnamon sugar and served warm, these donut holes make the perfect indulgent treat for breakfast, dessert, or any time you need a sweet snack.

Origin:

The concept of stuffed donuts has been a favorite in many cultures, often combining soft dough with various fillings. These donut holes take inspiration from classic stuffed donuts but are made mini for bite-sized fun, with a creamy, fruity cheesecake filling. It’s a creative take on the traditional donut hole and cheesecake.

Ingredients (Makes about 18-20 donut holes):

For the Donut Holes:

• All-purpose flour: 2 cups
• Granulated sugar: ½ cup
• Baking powder: 2 tsp
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp
• Milk: ½ cup
• Egg: 1 large
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
• Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp (melted)
• Vegetable oil: for frying

For the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling:

• Cream cheese: 8 oz (softened)
• Powdered sugar: ½ cup
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
• Strawberry jam or fresh strawberry puree: ¼ cup
• Heavy cream: 2 tbsp (optional, for extra creaminess)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• Granulated sugar: ½ cup
• Ground cinnamon: 2 tsp

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Donut Holes Dough

1. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it gently until smooth, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. Stir in the strawberry jam or fresh strawberry puree, mixing until well combined. If you want a creamier texture, add the heavy cream and mix again.
3. Transfer the filling to a piping bag or a plastic sandwich bag with the tip cut off.

Step 3: Form and Fry the Donut Holes

1. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls.
3. Carefully drop the dough balls into the hot oil, frying in batches. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove the donut holes from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Stuff the Donut Holes

1. Once the donut holes have cooled slightly, use a skewer or small knife to make a small hole in the center of each donut hole.
2. Pipe the strawberry cheesecake filling into the center of each donut hole, being careful not to overfill.

Step 5: Coat the Donut Holes

1. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
2. Roll each stuffed donut hole in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve warm, and enjoy the gooey, creamy strawberry cheesecake center with the crispy, sweet outer shell.

Tips for Success:

• Filling Tip: If the cheesecake filling is too runny, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes before piping into the donuts.
• Frying Tip: Make sure the oil is hot enough to fry the donuts evenly, but not too hot that they burn. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
• Coating Tip: For a fun variation, try mixing in a little lemon zest or adding a pinch of salt to the cinnamon sugar for a more complex flavor.

Recommendations:

• Serving Suggestions: These donut holes are perfect as a dessert for a gathering, brunch, or a sweet snack. Serve them with extra strawberry jam or whipped cream for dipping!
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh, warm texture.

Nutrition (Per Donut Hole):

• Calories: ~120
• Protein: 2 g
• Fat: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 17 g
• Sugar: 9 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sodium: 50 mg

These Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes are a fun and delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With the creamy cheesecake center and sweet cinnamon sugar coating, they are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them!