Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes

If you’re the kind of person who can't decide between a donut, cheesecake, or something fruity, then you're in for a treat. These Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes are the ultimate bite-sized indulgence, combining a soft, fluffy donut with a creamy cheesecake center, all wrapped in a sweet strawberry glaze. I whipped these up for a brunch with friends, and they vanished before the coffee even finished brewing.

They’re simple to make, yet impressive enough for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, baby showers, or birthday brunches. The best part? No yeast required! These are quick, no-fuss donut holes that taste like they came straight from your favorite bakery.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bakery-Worthy Flavor: Fluffy donut dough, luscious cheesecake filling, and real strawberry flavor.
• No Yeast Needed: Quick and easy with no rise time.
• Bite-Sized Delight: Perfectly portioned for parties or snacks.
• Customizable: Use different jams, fillings, or coatings to suit your mood.
• Fun to Make: A great weekend baking project that kids and adults will love.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Donut Holes:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup milk (or buttermilk for extra tenderness)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Jam & Coating:

• ½ cup strawberry jam (or homemade strawberry compote)
• ½ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for coating)

Optional: A squeeze of lemon juice in the jam adds brightness and enhances the strawberry flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Transfer the filling to a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped off. Chill while preparing the donut batter.

Step 2: Mix the Donut Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. In another bowl, whisk the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined. The batter will be thick.

Tip: Don’t overmix or your donut holes may turn out dense.

Step 3: Form and Fill the Donut Holes

Using a small scoop or spoon, scoop a tablespoon of dough into your hand. Flatten slightly, add a small dollop of the cream cheese filling in the center, then top with another small piece of dough. Pinch the edges to seal and roll gently into a ball.

Repeat with the remaining dough and filling. You should get about 16-20 donut holes.

Step 4: Fry or Bake

To Fry: Heat oil in a deep saucepan to 350°F (175°C). Fry donut holes in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

To Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place donut holes in a mini muffin tin or on a parchment-lined tray. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden and cooked through.

Step 5: Coat and Glaze

While the donut holes are still warm, brush each with melted butter. Roll in granulated sugar until fully coated. Warm the strawberry jam slightly and either dip the donut holes or drizzle the jam over the top.

Tip: If using a homemade compote, let it cool slightly so it thickens for better coating.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm or at room temperature. These are best enjoyed the day they are made, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge and gently warmed before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve with coffee or tea for a delightful snack or brunch centerpiece.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop in a low oven for a few minutes.
• Freeze uncoated donut holes and coat fresh after thawing for best texture.

Helpful Notes

• Chill the cream cheese filling for easier handling and less mess.
• Use a piping bag with a small tip to insert filling into already cooked donut holes if preferred.
• Try different jams like raspberry, blueberry, or even lemon curd for a fun twist.
• No piping bag? Use a zip-top bag with the tip snipped off.
• Make it festive: Use pink sprinkles or heart-shaped toppings for Valentine’s.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, prep the dough and filling ahead and store them separately. Assemble and cook the next day.
2. Can I air fry these? Yes! Air fry at 350°F for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3. Do I have to fill them before cooking? No, you can cook the donut holes first and then pipe the filling inside with a long tip.
4. Can I use store-bought jam? Absolutely! Just warm it slightly to make it easier to drizzle or dip.
5. Can I make them gluten-free? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to substitute the all-purpose flour.
6. What oil is best for frying? Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil with a high smoke point.
7. Can I double the recipe? Yes, this recipe doubles well for a larger crowd.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes are little bites of joy—sweet, creamy, and packed with fruity flavor. Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them, they’re a surefire hit for any occasion. They come together easily and are a fun, festive twist on classic donut holes.

Have you tried this recipe? Share your favorite variations or how you dressed them up!