Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly Delicious – A crispy, sugary shell with a creamy strawberry cheesecake center makes every bite heavenly.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve these at brunch, dessert gatherings, or as a fun treat for the family.
• Quick & Easy – No need for yeast or rising time—just mix, fry, fill, and enjoy!
• Customizable – Swap the strawberries for other fruits or add different flavorings to the filling.
• Great for Sharing – These bite-sized donut holes are perfect for parties or as a grab-and-go snack.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Donut Holes:

• all-purpose flour
• granulated sugar
• baking powder
• baking soda
• salt
• buttermilk
• large egg
• melted butter
• vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling:

• cream cheese, softened
• powdered sugar
• vanilla extract
• fresh strawberries, finely chopped

For the Sugar Coating:

• granulated sugar
• ground cinnamon (optional)

Directions

1. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

• In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.
• Transfer the filling to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip and refrigerate until ready to use.

2. Make the Donut Hole Batter:

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

3. Fry the Donut Holes:

• Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan to 350°F (175°C).
• Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, carefully drop batter into the hot oil, frying in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
• Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

4. Fill the Donut Holes:

• Once cooled slightly, use the piping bag to inject each donut hole with the strawberry cheesecake filling.

5. Coat & Serve:

• In a shallow bowl, mix the granulated sugar with cinnamon if desired.
• Roll each filled donut hole in the sugar mixture until coated.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 12-15 donut holes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling or drizzle with melted chocolate.
• Lemon Twist: Add a bit of lemon zest to the cheesecake filling for a refreshing citrus note.
• Berry Swap: Replace strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or a mixed berry blend.
• Baked Version: Instead of frying, bake the donut holes in a mini muffin tin at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover donut holes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
• Freezing: Freeze unfilled donut holes for up to 1 month. Reheat and fill before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make these donut holes ahead of time?

Yes! You can fry the donut holes ahead and fill them just before serving for the best texture.

2. Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture in the filling.

3. What’s the best way to fill the donut holes?

A piping bag with a small round tip works best for easy and even filling.

4. Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

5. Why are my donut holes greasy?

The oil may not be hot enough. Ensure it’s at 350°F (175°C) before frying.

6. Can I make these without buttermilk?

Yes! Mix ½ cup milk with ½ tbsp vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.

7. What oil is best for frying?

Use neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil.

8. Can I add extra flavoring to the filling?

Absolutely! Try adding a drop of almond extract or lemon zest for a twist.

9. How do I prevent the filling from leaking?

Don’t overfill, and make sure the donut holes are slightly cooled before injecting the filling.

10. Can I coat them in something other than sugar?

Yes! Try rolling them in powdered sugar or drizzling with melted chocolate.

Conclusion

Strawberry cheesecake stuffed donut holes are the perfect bite-sized treat that combines crispy, sugary goodness with a luscious, creamy center. Whether served fresh or saved for later, these little delights are sure to impress. Try different variations, and don’t forget to share with family and friends!

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