Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup strawberry jam or puree
• 1/2 cup fresh strawberries (finely chopped)

For the Coating:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Donut Dough

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Add 1 tablespoon of the sugar and let it sit for about 5 minutesuntil the mixture becomes foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center.
3. Add the eggs, softened butter, vanilla extract, and the yeast mixture into the well. Mix until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gently fold in the strawberry jam or puree and the chopped fresh strawberries. Mix until combined.
3. Transfer the filling to a piping bag fitted with a round tip and set aside.

Step 3: Shape and Fry the Donuts

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness.
2. Use a round cookie cutter (about 3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles from the dough. Re-roll any scraps and cut out more circles.
3. Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
4. Fry the donuts in batches, cooking each side for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the donuts to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Coat the Donuts

1. In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon (if using).
2. Roll each warm donut in the sugar mixture to coat the outside.

Step 5: Fill the Donuts

1. Use a knife or skewer to poke a hole in the side of each donut.
2. Insert the piping tip into the hole and gently squeeze the strawberry cheesecake filling into the center of each donut until full.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve the stuffed donuts fresh, and enjoy them while they’re warm! They’re perfect as a sweet breakfast treat or a decadent dessert.

Cook Notes

• Frying Temperature: Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature (around 350°F) to ensure the donuts fry evenly and don’t absorb too much oil.
• Chilling the Filling: If the filling is too soft to pipe, chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to firm it up slightly before piping.
• Filling Variations: You can replace the strawberry filling with other fruit jams or flavors like raspberry, blueberry, or even Nutella.

Variations

• Chocolate Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts: Swap the strawberry filling for a chocolate ganache or chocolate cheesecake mixture.
• Glazed Donuts: Instead of rolling the donuts in sugar, dip them in a vanilla glaze for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Lemon Cheesecake Filling: Add lemon zest and juice to the cream cheese filling for a zesty twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I bake the donuts instead of frying them?

Yes! You can bake the donuts at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. They won’t be as crispy as fried donuts, but they’ll still be delicious!

How do I store leftover donuts?

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to soften them before serving.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. When ready to fry, bring the dough to room temperature before rolling and cutting.

Can I freeze the donuts?

Yes! You can freeze the fried donuts (before filling them) for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature, reheat in the oven, and then fill with the cheesecake mixture.

Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts are an indulgent, irresistible treat that combines the best of donuts and cheesecake into one bite. Whether served for breakfast or dessert, these fluffy, creamy, and sweet donuts are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them! Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures in each bite!