If you’re looking for a dessert that combines fun, flavor, and indulgence all in one, Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes are the treat for you. Imagine the sweetness of golden-fried donut holes, filled with creamy cheesecake filling, and finished with a luscious strawberry glaze or dusting of sugar. These bite-sized delights capture the rich taste of cheesecake with the soft, airy texture of donuts—perfect for parties, brunch tables, or simply as a sweet indulgence any day of the week.
What Makes Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes Special?
Donut holes are already a crowd favorite, but when paired with cheesecake filling, they’re elevated into a gourmet dessert. Here’s why they’re so irresistible:
- Perfectly Bite-Sized – Portable, easy to share, and just the right portion for a quick sweet fix.
- Decadent Filling – A rich, tangy cream cheese center that balances the sweetness.
- Fruity Freshness – Strawberry glaze or compote adds a refreshing, fruity twist.
- Versatile – Great for parties, holiday platters, or even as a breakfast treat with coffee.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Donut Holes:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons strawberry puree (or strawberry jam thinned with water)
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Assembly: 10 minutes
- Total Time: ~45 minutes
- Yield: About 24 donut holes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip. Chill in the fridge while you prepare the donuts.
2. Prepare the Donut Batter
In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine milk, melted butter, vanilla, and egg. Stir wet ingredients into dry until just combined—don’t overmix.
3. Fry the Donut Holes
Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of batter into the oil, frying in small batches until golden brown (about 2–3 minutes per side). Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Fill the Donut Holes
Once slightly cooled, use a skewer or piping tip to poke a small hole in each donut. Pipe the cheesecake filling into the center until plump.
5. Glaze or Dust
Dip each donut hole into the strawberry glaze or dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish. Allow glaze to set before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 90mg
Presentation and Serving Ideas
- Party Platters: Arrange in a pyramid on a cake stand and drizzle with extra strawberry sauce for a show-stopping centerpiece.
- Brunch Favorite: Serve alongside fresh berries and mimosas for a refreshing brunch spread.
- Festive Touch: Dust with pink sanding sugar or sprinkles for Valentine’s Day or birthdays.
- Dessert Parfait: Layer donut holes with whipped cream and strawberries in a glass for a creative twist.
Variations and Customizations
- Chocolate Dipped: Dip donut holes halfway in melted chocolate for a richer treat.
- Berry Mix: Swap strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or a mixed berry glaze.
- Baked Option: Bake in a mini muffin tin at 350°F for 12–15 minutes for a lighter version.
- Stuffed Surprise: Add a tiny spoonful of strawberry jam inside along with the cheesecake filling for an extra fruity bite.
Tips for Success
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the frying oil steady at 350°F—too hot, and the donuts will burn outside while staying raw inside.
- Pipe Carefully: Don’t overfill with cheesecake filling, or the donut holes may split.
- Serve Fresh: These are best enjoyed the same day, as frying and filling make them less suitable for long-term storage.
Why You’ll Love Them
Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes strike the perfect balance of indulgence and fun. They’re nostalgic like fair-style donuts, yet elevated with the elegance of cheesecake filling and fruity glaze. Whether you’re making them for family, friends, or just treating yourself, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles with every bite.
If you’re searching for a dessert that’s bite-sized, creative, and bursting with flavor, Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes are the answer. They combine the best of donuts, cheesecake, and fresh strawberries into one delightful package. With their soft, golden exterior, creamy filling, and fruity topping, these little treats are perfect for any occasion—from casual gatherings to holiday celebrations.
Whip up a batch, pour a cup of coffee, and enjoy the sweet, irresistible joy of these homemade delights.