Delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Filled Donuts are what I dream about when I want something playful, a little fancy, and totally worth licking sugar off my fingers. Ever bite into a donut and wish it had more personality? This one’s got it. Think soft, warm dough hugging a silky cheesecake center, with sweet strawberry tucked inside like a secret. The first time I made these, I had to stop myself from eating a second one before the glaze even set. If you love a dessert that feels bakery special but still doable at home, you’re in the right place.
The Story Behind This Recipe
I’ve spent years testing recipes for Midd Leeast Sector, and this Delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Filled Donuts is a keeper: big on flavor with no weird tricks. Delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Filled Donuts are what I dream about when I want something playful, a little fancy, and totally worth licking sugar off my fingers.…
What Makes This Recipe So Good
These donuts are a happy mashup of two classics. You get the fluffy comfort of a homemade donut and the creamy joy of cheesecake in every bite. The strawberry swirl gives a bright, fruity finish that cuts through the richness just enough. They’re a total crowd-pleaser for brunch, birthdays, or those nights when you want something warm and sweet from your own kitchen.
Another big win is how flexible the recipe is. Want a firmer filling? Chill it a little longer. Want extra strawberry? Add more sauce inside or drizzle on top. You’re in control here, which means these can lean sweet and playful or rich and decadent. I love that I can make them for a cozy weekend or dress them up on a pretty platter for guests.
If you’re already into creamy strawberry treats, you might also love these fun single-serve ideas like Strawberry Oreo Cheesecake Cups for when you want that same vibe in a bite size cup. They’re perfect for parties too.
“I made these for my sister’s birthday brunch and people were stunned. Soft donut outside, creamy middle, and that strawberry pop. Honestly the best homemade donuts I’ve ever tried.”
When you need something that feels special without hours of fuss, Delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Filled Donuts hit the spot. They taste like love and cozy mornings, and you’ll feel proud pulling them off your stovetop.
Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Donuts
Dough Ingredients
- 2 and 3/4 cups all purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 2 and 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- Neutral oil for frying, enough for 2 to 3 inches in your pot
Cheesecake Filling and Strawberry Sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cold heavy cream
- 3/4 cup strawberry preserves or jam
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice to brighten the strawberry flavor
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting or a simple glaze if you like
Ingredient notes and swaps:
Use instant yeast if that’s what you have. Just mix it right into the flour. If you want the filling sweeter, add 1 to 2 tablespoons more powdered sugar. If you prefer a chunky strawberry center, fold in small bits of fresh strawberry with the jam, about a quarter cup.
Feeling creative with flavors? If you like fruity cheesecake mashups, check out this bright combo idea for gatherings: Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad. It’s a cool, creamy partner for warm donuts on a brunch table.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Donuts
Make the dough
Stir warm milk, warm water, and a pinch of sugar with the yeast. Let it sit for 5 to 8 minutes until foamy. If nothing happens, the yeast may be old. Start over with fresh yeast.
In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add the foamy yeast mixture, softened butter, and egg. Stir until a soft dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and springy. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 60 to 90 minutes depending on your kitchen.
Prep the filling
Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Whip in heavy cream until thick and pipeable. Chill for at least 30 minutes so it holds well inside the donuts. Warm the strawberry jam with lemon juice for a few seconds in the microwave or on the stove, then cool to room temperature.
Fry and fill
After the first rise, pat the dough out to about 1/2 inch thick. Cut circles with a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass. Place on parchment squares, cover loosely, and let rise again for 30 minutes. Heat oil to about 350 F. Fry in small batches for 1 to 2 minutes per side. They should be golden and puffed. Place on a wire rack to cool slightly.
Use a small knife or a chopstick to make a tunnel from the side of each donut. Fill a piping bag with the cheesecake cream and another with the strawberry jam. Pipe cream first, then a little strawberry right in the center. Dust with powdered sugar or add a light glaze if you like.
If you prefer an air fryer, brush proofed donuts lightly with oil and air fry at 350 F for 5 to 7 minutes, flipping halfway. Finish the same way. For another crispy, creamy treat made easier in the air fryer, try these fun Air Fryer Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls.
And yes, it’s totally fine to pause and taste test. Quality control is important.
Tips for Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Donuts
- Let ingredients come to room temperature, especially cream cheese and egg. It helps everything mix smoothly.
- Watch your oil heat. Keep it near 350 F for even color and a tender crumb. Too hot and they brown outside before cooking through.
- Do not crowd the pot. Small batches fry better and stay fluffy.
- Let the donuts cool a bit before filling. Warm is fine, but piping into very hot donuts can melt the filling.
- Use a squeeze bottle or piping bag with a medium tip. It makes a tidy pocket of cream and strawberry inside.
- Try a light sugar coating while warm, then a quick glaze after cooling for extra shine.
- If yeast makes you nervous, take a peek at this helpful approach to light, bakery style rings: Keto Krispy Kreme Donuts. Different style, same love for soft, airy dough.
Pro Tips for Making Doughnuts
Use a kitchen scale if you have one. Flour measurement can vary a lot by cup. Consistent dough makes consistent donuts. If the dough feels sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it smooths out. If it feels dry, add a splash of milk.
Proofing is everything. You want a puffy dough that gently springs back when touched. If the room is chilly, place the covered bowl in an off oven with the light on. That cozy warmth helps the yeast do its job without overdoing it.
Pick your finish based on how sweet you like your donut. A dusting of sugar feels classic and simple. A thin vanilla glaze gives that bakery look. For a glossy berry finish, whisk a spoonful of strawberry jam into the glaze. It’s gorgeous and tells people exactly what’s inside.
Serving idea: pair a warm donut with something cool and creamy on the side. I love a spoon of Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad for a playful contrast. It makes a brunch plate feel complete.
If you’re curious whether you can prep ahead, the answer is yes. Make the dough the night before, let it have a slow rise in the fridge, then shape and fry the next morning. The flavor deepens and the timing fits a lazy weekend. That’s part of why I adore making Delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Filled Donuts for family mornings.
Common Questions
Can I bake these instead of frying?
You can, but the texture will be more like a soft bun. Bake at 350 F until golden, about 12 to 15 minutes. Brush with butter after baking to keep them tender.
What oil should I use for frying?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola, peanut, or vegetable oil. Keep it steady near 350 F for best results.
How do I store leftovers?
Fill and enjoy the same day for best texture. If you must store, refrigerate in a covered container for up to 2 days. Let them sit out 10 to 15 minutes before eating for the filling to soften.
Can I make the filling less sweet?
Absolutely. Reduce powdered sugar by a tablespoon or two. You can also use a lower sugar jam to balance the sweetness.
How do I know when they’re cooked through?
They should be golden and feel light when lifted with a slotted spoon. If you’re unsure, break one open to check. The inside should be fluffy, not doughy.
Can I use a different fruit?
Yes. Raspberry, blueberry, or cherry jam all work. If you love layered fruit desserts, peek at these pretty Apple Pie Cheesecake Trifles for future dessert inspo.
These tips help you nail Delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Filled Donuts even on your first try.
Sweet Wrap Up You Can Taste
Here’s the heart of it. Warm, fluffy donuts plus creamy cheesecake plus bright strawberry equals pure comfort and a little bit of celebration. If you follow the proofing cues, keep the oil steady, and remember the chill time for the filling, you’ll get that amazing bite every time. If you want more donut inspiration, you might enjoy these guides for similar treats like the easy method from Easy strawberry cheesecake stuffed donuts -fluffy and delicious … or playful minis like Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes – Cafe Delites. Now grab your whisk, heat the oil, and enjoy making your own Delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Filled Donuts at home.
Strawberry Cheesecake Filled Donuts
Ingredients
Method
- Stir warm milk, warm water, and a pinch of sugar with the yeast. Let it sit for 5 to 8 minutes until foamy.
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add the foamy yeast mixture, softened butter, and egg. Stir until a soft dough forms.
- Knead on a lightly floured surface for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and springy. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 60 to 90 minutes.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Whip in heavy cream until thick and pipeable. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Warm the strawberry jam with lemon juice for a few seconds in the microwave or on the stove, then cool to room temperature.
- After the first rise, pat the dough out to about 1/2 inch thick. Cut circles and let rise again for 30 minutes.
- Heat oil to about 350°F. Fry in small batches for 1 to 2 minutes per side until golden.
- Make a tunnel from the side of each donut. Fill with cheesecake cream and then strawberry jam.
- Dust with powdered sugar or add a light glaze if you like.
