Introduction
If you’re looking to indulge in a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds — donuts and cheesecake — then these Strawberry Cheesecake Donuts are just what you need! Fluffy and baked to perfection, these donuts are infused with fresh strawberries and adorned with a luscious cream cheese topping. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet afternoon snack, they bring a burst of flavor and joy to any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 1/4 cup strawberry puree
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 12 donuts
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan to ensure easy release.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Stir well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
- In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
- Gently fold in the diced strawberries and white chocolate chips, which will add both flavor and a sweet touch.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each mold about two-thirds full to allow for rising.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops are lightly golden brown.
- Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the donuts cool, prepare the cream cheese topping by mixing the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar in a separate bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Once the donuts have cooled, spread or pipe a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on top of each donut.
- Finish by drizzling strawberry puree over the adorned donuts, and dust lightly with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness before serving.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to substitute almond extract for vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.
- If fresh strawberries aren’t available, frozen strawberries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them first.
- For an added crunch, consider sprinkling some crushed graham crackers on top of the cream cheese layer.
Cooking Techniques
Baking donuts instead of frying gives them a lighter texture and keeps them on the healthier side of indulgence. Remember to avoid overmixing the batter to keep the donuts fluffy and tender. When filling the donut pan, using a piping bag can help achieve uniform shapes and prevent mess.
FAQ
- Can I make these donuts gluten-free? Yes, you can swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend of your choice. Just ensure that your baking powder is gluten-free as well!
- How should I store leftover donuts? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them and enjoy them later!
- Can I freeze these donuts? Absolutely! They freeze beautifully. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe container.
Conclusion
These Strawberry Cheesecake Donuts are not just a treat for your taste buds; they’re a feast for your eyes too! With their soft, cake-like texture and vibrant strawberry topping, they are sure to impress anyone you share them with. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of making these delightful bites of joy. Happy baking!