Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes Recipe

If you love the idea of a sweet bite-sized treat that bursts with fruity and creamy goodness, then you are absolutely going to adore these Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes. Imagine fluffy, golden donut spheres, lightly coated with sugar, and filled with a luscious strawberry cheesecake swirl that’s just the right balance of tangy and sweet. Every bite is like a little celebration of summer flavors and creamy richness, perfect for sharing — or sneaking a few all to yourself!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy of making Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes. Each component not only adds flavor but also ensures that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture with just the right amount of sweetness and that pop of strawberry brightness.

• 1 cup self-raising flour (or plain all-purpose flour): Provides the soft, fluffy foundation for your donut holes, helping them rise beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons sugar (white, raw, or coconut sugar): Adds subtle sweetness to balance the tartness of the cheesecake filling.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives extra lift for lightness if you use plain flour instead of self-raising.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda (only if using plain or all-purpose flour): Works with acidic elements for proper rising.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or canola or melted coconut oil): Keeps the donut holes moist and tender without heaviness.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a rich binder, helping the batter hold together perfectly.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Infuses warm, aromatic notes that complement the strawberry filling beautifully.
• ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or low fat/skim milk): Moistens the batter while keeping it light and dairy-friendly if needed.
• ¼ cup sugar (or mild tasting sweetener for coating): To give the donut holes that irresistible sugary crust.
• ⅓ cup reduced fat cream cheese (block or spreadable): The star of our cheesecake filling, lending creaminess and tang.
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (icing sugar): Sweetens the cheesecake filling without any grit.
• 2 tablespoons strawberry jam (or jelly, or topping): Adds vibrant strawberry flavor and gorgeous color swirls.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes

Step 1: Prepare Your Batter and Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 176C (350F) and greasing a 24-count mini muffin pan. This step is crucial because it keeps your donut holes from sticking and ensures they come out perfectly formed. You can also use a cake pop tray or cake pop maker for a fun twist on the cooking method.

Step 2: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients Separately

Whisk together all the dry ingredients in a large bowl — the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda (if using). Then, make a little well in the center and add in the olive oil, egg, vanilla extract, and almond milk. Whisk everything until the batter looks smooth and free of lumps, which will give your donut holes that light, tender crumb we all love.

Step 3: Bake the Donut Holes

Spoon about two teaspoons of batter into each muffin hole, filling it to about three-quarters full. This allows just enough room for the donut holes to rise without overflowing. Pop them into your oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, until they turn a beautiful golden color. The toothpick test works like a charm here — just poke one to make sure it comes out clean! Once baked, let the donuts cool for 5 minutes, then gently roll each warm donut hole in sugar for that perfect sweet crunch on the outside.

Step 4: Make the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling

While the donut holes are baking, whip up your cheesecake filling by combining the cream cheese and powdered sugar in a small bowl. Beat until smooth and creamy. Then slowly mix in the strawberry jam, aiming for a lovely swirl effect rather than a fully blended mixture. Removing any large fruit pieces from the jam before adding it helps keep the piping smooth and neat when filling the donuts.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Holes

Load your cheesecake filling into a piping bag fitted with a narrow nozzle. Carefully pierce each donut hole and gently squeeze in the strawberry cheesecake mixture until the donut puffs up slightly — just enough to hold all that creamy deliciousness inside without any overflow.

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes

Garnishes

To add an extra touch of charm and flavor, dust your Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes with a tiny sprinkle of powdered sugar or garnish each with a small fresh strawberry slice on top. A hint of finely chopped mint can also add a refreshing twist that pairs perfectly with the strawberry and creamy cheesecake flavors.

Side Dishes

Serve these donut holes alongside a hot cup of coffee or a light, fruity tea for a delightful snack or dessert experience. A fresh berry salad or a drizzle of strawberry coulis can also complement the sweetness without overwhelming the delicate richness of the donut holes.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or special occasions, arrange the Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes on a tiered dessert tray, or stick them onto dessert skewers with alternating fresh strawberries and mint leaves for an eye-catching display. Wrapping them in little parchment paper cones adds a rustic charm that’s perfect for casual gatherings and makes them easy for guests to enjoy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These donut holes are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keeping them chilled helps preserve the creamy cheesecake filling and prevents the sugar coating from getting sticky.

Freezing

If you want to prepare Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes ahead of time, freeze them unfilled for up to a month. Once you’re ready to indulge, thaw them completely, then fill with the cheesecake mixture just before serving to maintain the perfect texture.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the donut holes in a low-temperature oven (around 150C or 300F) for 5-7 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked softness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the sugar coating lose its crispness. Fill with the cheesecake mixture after warming for the best taste.

FAQs

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of reduced fat?

Absolutely! Regular cream cheese can be used and will provide an even richer, creamier filling if you prefer indulgence over lower fat content. Just ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.

Is it possible to make these donut holes dairy-free?

Yes, by using dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based milk such as almond or coconut milk, you can make these delightful treats suitable for a dairy-free diet without sacrificing flavor.

What if I don’t have a mini muffin pan? Can I make them another way?

You can use a cake pop maker or even shape small balls and bake them on a lined sheet pan, although they might not puff up quite as neatly. Just keep an eye on the baking time as it may vary.

How do I prevent the jam from clogging the piping bag nozzle?

Make sure to strain any chunky parts out of the jam before mixing it into the cheesecake filling. A smooth consistency pipes more easily and ensures clean filling of each donut hole.

Can the strawberry cheesecake filling be made ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature and give it a quick stir before piping it into the donut holes for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

Making Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes is like creating little pockets of happiness that bring smiles with every bite. They’re perfect for anything from casual coffee breaks to festive gatherings. So grab your ingredients, have fun in the kitchen, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this incredible combination of fluffy donuts and luscious strawberry cheesecake filling — I promise you won’t regret it!

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