Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts

For the Donuts:

2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

¾ cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)

¼ cup granulated sugar

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 egg

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon salt

Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling:

4 oz cream cheese, softened

½ cup powdered sugar

½ cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon heavy cream (for extra creaminess, optional)

For the Coating:

½ cup granulated sugar OR powdered sugar

½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)

1. Prepare the Donut Dough:

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together remaining sugar, melted butter, egg, salt, and yeast mixture.

Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. (If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook.)

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

2. Make the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling:

In a bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Fold in chopped strawberries and mix well.

Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

3. Shape & Fry the Donuts:

Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface to about ½-inch thickness.

Cut out circles using a round cookie cutter or glass (about 3 inches wide).

Cover and let rest for 20 minutes while heating the oil.

Heat 2–3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).

Fry donuts 2–3 at a time, flipping once, until golden brown (about 1 minute per side).

Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

4. Fill & Coat the Donuts:

Let donuts cool slightly, then roll in granulated sugar OR powdered sugar.

Using a piping bag fitted with a round tip, fill each donut with strawberry cheesecake filling. (A squeeze bottle or spoon can also work!)

5. Serve & Enjoy!

Serve warm and enjoy these sweet, creamy, and delicious stuffed donuts!

Best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.