Introduction
Transform everyday biscuit dough into gourmet strawberry cheesecake stuffed donut holes – the perfect sweet and salty party snack! These delightful treats are surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time. Plus, their delicious flavor and charming presentation make them a memorable addition to any gathering, and they keep well for a couple of days, making them ideal for ahead-of-time preparation. Prepare to impress your friends and family with this simple yet elegant recipe.
## Why This Works
The magic lies in the irresistible combination of sweet and salty. The fluffy, slightly salty donut holes provide the perfect canvas for the creamy, tangy strawberry cheesecake filling. Simple ingredients, quick preparation, and endless versatility make this recipe a winner. The elegant finish, achieved with a simple glaze, elevates these donut holes from ordinary to extraordinary.
## Key Ingredients
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup strawberry jam or puree
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh strawberries
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. Stir in the strawberry jam or puree and the chopped strawberries until well combined. Transfer the filling to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip and refrigerate.
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Make the Donut Holes: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the biscuit dough into small, equal-sized pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball. Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the dough balls in batches for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Let cool completely.
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Stuff the Donut Holes: Once the donut holes are cool enough to handle, use a small skewer or knife to create a small hole in the center of each. Pipe the chilled strawberry cheesecake filling into each donut hole.
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Glaze the Donut Holes: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until a smooth glaze forms. Adjust the milk for desired consistency. Dip each stuffed donut hole into the glaze, allowing excess to drip off.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Handy Tips
Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; work in batches for even cooking. If your caramel becomes too thick, add a teaspoon of water at a time until you reach the desired consistency. High humidity can affect the crispness; store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. For larger batches, simply multiply the ingredients proportionally.
Heat Control
Overheating the oil will burn the donut holes, resulting in a dark brown color and potentially a bitter taste. The ideal temperature is 350°F (175°C). Watch for a light golden-brown color as a visual cue for doneness, rather than relying solely on time.
Crunch Factor
The initial frying creates a soft interior, while the cooling process allows the outside to become crisp. The glaze adds a delicate sweetness and a slightly contrasting texture.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
Using high-quality unsalted butter enhances the flavor. To prevent sugar crystals from forming in the glaze, sift the powdered sugar before mixing. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup easier.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal crispness for up to 1 day. For longer storage (up to 2 days), refrigerate in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Avoid storing in plastic containers for extended periods, as this can affect texture.
Gift Packaging Ideas
Present your donut holes in attractive jars, adorned with custom labels and seasonal decorations. Include a small card with the recipe or a personalized message. A small “best by” date sticker adds a professional touch.
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Swirl: Add melted dark or milk chocolate to the glaze.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped nuts into the donut hole dough or the filling.
- Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the filling.
- Spiced Caramel: Infuse the glaze with cinnamon or cardamom.
Troubleshooting
Grainy caramel can be remedied by adding a small amount of hot water and whisking vigorously. If the donut holes are too sticky, you may need to adjust the glaze consistency or let them cool completely. Uneven coating may result from insufficient glaze; add more and re-dip.
FAQ
- How long do they stay fresh? Up to 2 days refrigerated, 1 day at room temperature.
- Gluten-free alternatives? Use gluten-free biscuit dough.
- How long do I fry the donut holes? 2-3 minutes per batch, until golden brown.
- How long should I let them cool? Allow them to cool completely before stuffing and glazing.
- Do I need parchment paper? It’s optional but recommended for easier cleanup.
- Can I freeze them? Freezing is not recommended, as it might affect texture.
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What if my glaze is too thick/thin? Add more milk for thinner glaze, more powdered sugar for thicker glaze.
Conclusion
These irresistible Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes are perfect for parties, gifts, or a delightful weekend treat. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings and glazes to create your own unique flavor combinations. Enjoy!