Introduction
Few desserts capture the balance of indulgence, nostalgia, and sheer delight quite like donuts. Now imagine combining that fluffy fried pastry with the elegance of a strawberry cheesecake—soft, golden donuts filled with a creamy cheesecake mixture and sweet strawberry preserves. The result is a dessert that feels decadent yet approachable, fancy enough for special occasions but easy enough to prepare in your own kitchen.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts from scratch using a shortcut ingredient—refrigerated biscuit dough. We’ll cover the essential ingredients, preparation steps, tips for frying perfectly golden donuts, variations to try, FAQs to answer your doubts, and a thoughtful conclusion that explains why this recipe deserves a place in your kitchen.
Ingredients with Quantities
To make 8 stuffed donuts, you’ll need:
- 1 can (8-count) refrigerated biscuit dough (e.g., Pillsbury Grands)
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam or preserves
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil, for frying (enough for about 2 inches deep in the pan)
- Extra powdered sugar, for dusting
Optional Additions for Variations:
- Fresh strawberries, diced (for garnish or added inside)
- Chocolate drizzle or melted white chocolate for decoration
- Lemon zest (to brighten the cheesecake filling)
Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until completely smooth and creamy. Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip (or use a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off). Refrigerate while preparing the donuts to firm it slightly.
Step 2: Loosen the Jam
In a separate bowl, stir the strawberry jam to loosen its texture. This makes it easier to pipe into the donuts later. If your jam is too thick, microwave it for 10–15 seconds. Transfer to another piping bag if you want a neater filling process.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep, heavy pan to reach about 2 inches in depth. Heat over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer if possible—temperature control is crucial for evenly cooked donuts.
Step 4: Fry the Donuts
Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough and separate the rounds. Gently stretch them slightly to even thickness. Fry 2–3 biscuits at a time, cooking each side for about 1–2 minutes until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Fill the Donuts
Allow the donuts to cool slightly so they’re warm but not hot. Using a small knife, poke a hole into the side of each donut. Insert the piping bag and squeeze in either the cream cheese filling or strawberry jam—or go half and half for a classic cheesecake-and-strawberry combo.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Dust generously with powdered sugar, and serve immediately while still slightly warm. Pair with coffee or tea for the ultimate indulgence.
Why You’ll Love These Donuts
- Quick and Easy: Thanks to refrigerated biscuit dough, you skip the yeast proofing process.
- Indulgent Flavor: The balance of creamy cheesecake and tangy strawberry jam mimics a slice of cheesecake in donut form.
- Customizable: Swap the jam flavor, drizzle with chocolate, or experiment with different fillings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for birthdays, brunch, or Valentine’s Day treats.
Tips for Perfect Donuts
- Use the Right Temperature: Too hot, and the donuts burn outside but remain raw inside. Too cool, and they absorb excess oil.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature.
- Chill the Filling: Cold cream cheese filling holds its shape better when piped.
- Dust Right Before Serving: Powdered sugar melts if applied too far in advance.
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Strawberry Donuts: Drizzle melted chocolate over the finished donuts.
- Lemon Cheesecake Donuts: Add lemon zest to the filling for a bright twist.
- Berry Medley: Use raspberry or blueberry preserves instead of strawberry.
- Cookies & Cream: Mix crushed Oreos into the cheesecake filling.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as part of a brunch spread alongside coffee, fresh fruit, and scrambled eggs.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert plate.
- Wrap individually in parchment paper and gift in a bakery box for special occasions.
FAQs
Q1: Can I bake the donuts instead of frying?
A1: Technically yes, but the texture will be closer to a biscuit than a donut. Frying gives that signature golden, crisp exterior.
Q2: How do I store leftover donuts?
A2: Place in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 days, but they are best eaten fresh.
Q3: Can I make them ahead of time?
A3: Fry the donuts ahead of time, but wait to fill them until just before serving to maintain freshness.
Q4: What oil is best for frying donuts?
A4: Neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable oil, canola, or sunflower oil work best. Avoid olive oil.
Q5: Can I use homemade dough?
A5: Absolutely. Yeast-based donut dough will work beautifully, but allow extra time for proofing and rising.
Q6: Can I freeze them?
A6: You can freeze the fried but unfilled donuts. Thaw and reheat in the oven, then fill before serving.
Q7: How can I prevent oily donuts?
A7: Make sure the oil temperature stays steady at 350°F and drain the donuts on paper towels immediately after frying.
Q8: Is there a way to make these lighter?
A8: Yes, try air-frying the biscuit dough at 350°F for about 8 minutes, then filling as usual. They won’t be quite as crispy but still delicious.
Conclusion
Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts are the perfect blend of two classic desserts—airy donuts and creamy strawberry cheesecake. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, you can whip up a batch in less than 30 minutes. They’re versatile enough to adapt with different fillings and toppings, making them a favorite for families, parties, or just a cozy afternoon treat.
By mastering this recipe, you gain not only a show-stopping dessert but also a creative foundation to explore countless flavor variations. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these donuts prove that impressive desserts don’t have to be complicated.
So next time you crave something indulgent, skip the bakery and head to your kitchen—because with Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts, you’re just a few steps away from pure, sweet bliss.