Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts
Indulging in a delightful treat is made even sweeter with these Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts. Combining the rich, creamy flavors of cheesecake with the sweet, fruity notes of strawberries, these donuts are perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast delight or a dessert after dinner, they are sure to impress with their luscious filling and soft, fluffy texture.
Key Takeaways:
- Preparation time: Approximately 1 hour (plus cooling time)
- Difficulty level: Medium
- Main ingredients: Flour, sugar, yeast, cream cheese, strawberries
- Special techniques: Dough proofing, frying, and filling
- Storage information: Best consumed fresh; can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days
Introduction to Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts:
Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts are a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts: donuts and cheesecake. The concept of stuffed donuts has been around for centuries, evolving from simple filled pastries to the gourmet versions we enjoy today. The addition of cheesecake filling takes this treat to another level, providing a creamy, rich contrast to the light and fluffy donut exterior.
The popularity of donuts skyrocketed in the early 20th century, particularly in the United States, where they became a staple in bakeries and coffee shops. The integration of cheesecake flavors, particularly the classic strawberry variant, showcases the versatility of donuts and offers a modern twist that appeals to both traditionalists and adventurous eaters alike. This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also allows you to bring a little bit of bakery magic into your own kitchen.
Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts:
- For the Donut Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for the donut, providing structure and texture.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough.
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp): Helps the dough rise and become fluffy.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.
- 1 large egg: Provides binding and helps with the dough’s structure.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Adds flavor and moisture.
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient for the cheesecake filling, providing creaminess.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling and gives it a smooth texture.
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed: Infuses the filling with fruity flavor and vibrant color.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the filling.
- For Frying:
- Oil (vegetable or canola): Necessary for frying the donuts until golden brown.
Preparation Steps for Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts:
1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, warm the milk until it’s lukewarm (not hot) and whisk in the egg and melted butter. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, pureed strawberries, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Place the mixture in the refrigerator to chill while the dough rises.
4. Shape the Donuts: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness on a floured surface. Use a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters to cut out donuts and donut holes. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
5. Fry the Donuts: Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the donuts in batches, cooking each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
6. Fill the Donuts: Once the donuts have cooled slightly, use a piping bag fitted with a round tip to fill each donut with the chilled cheesecake filling. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy: These donuts are best served fresh, but they can also be enjoyed later—just remember to store them properly.
Flavor Profile of Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts:
The flavor profile of Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts is a harmonious blend of sweet and creamy. The donuts themselves are light and fluffy, with a slight crispness from frying, creating a delightful contrast in texture. Each bite reveals a burst of creamy cheesecake filling, accented by the tartness of fresh strawberries, which adds a refreshing brightness. The aroma of fried dough mingled with sweet strawberries and vanilla wafts through the air, making it hard to resist these tempting treats.
Benefits of Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts:
While donuts are often considered a guilty pleasure, Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts can offer some nutritional benefits when made with care. The use of fresh strawberries adds vitamins and antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which is essential for immune function. Additionally, the cream cheese provides calcium and protein, though it’s important to enjoy these donuts in moderation due to their sugar and fat content. For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour or reducing the sugar content slightly without compromising flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts:
Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts can be served in various delightful ways. Serve them warm, dusted with powdered sugar, alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy brunch. They also make a fantastic dessert at gatherings, where they can be paired with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra touch, drizzle a strawberry glaze or a simple icing over the top. These donuts also pair beautifully with a refreshing fruit salad or a light yogurt parfait for a balanced meal.
Storage Tips for Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts:
To maintain the freshness and quality of your Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts, it’s best to consume them within two days. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to prevent them from becoming stale. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the filled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a zip-top bag once solid. They can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Conclusion:
Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts are a delightful hybrid that combines the best of both worlds: the fluffy, comforting nature of donuts and the rich, creamy goodness of cheesecake. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, these donuts are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. So why not roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
FAQ Section:
1. Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before pureeing to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
2. How can I make these donuts healthier?
You can use whole wheat flour, reduce the sugar, and opt for low-fat cream cheese to cut down on calories.
3. What other fillings can I use?
You can experiment with other fillings such as chocolate ganache, vanilla custard, or even lemon curd for a different flavor profile. Check out our recipe for Spicy Quinoa Bowl With Pineapple Salsa Crispy Chickpeas for more ideas.
4. Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes, but they will have a different texture compared to fried donuts.
5. How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into it; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready for frying.
6. Can these donuts be made in advance?
While they are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the dough and filling in advance and then fry them shortly before serving.
7. What should I serve with these donuts?
These donuts pair well with coffee, tea, or even a fruit smoothie for a delightful brunch.
8. Can I add toppings to these donuts?
Absolutely! Consider adding a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for a cheesecake crust effect.
Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries (or blueberry pie filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
- Step 2: In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, mix buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, lemon zest, and vanilla. Combine wet and dry ingredients.
- Step 3: Spoon batter into donut pan and bake for 10-12 minutes. Cool in pan for a few minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
- Step 4: Beat cream cheese until smooth, then mix in powdered sugar, sour cream, and vanilla. Fold in blueberries or pie filling.
- Step 5: Create a hole in each cooled donut and fill with cheesecake mixture.
- Step 6: Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth for glaze.
- Step 7: Dip tops of donuts in glaze and sprinkle with lemon zest.
- Step 8: Let glaze set before serving.