1️⃣ Make the Donut Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg.
- Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a smooth dough forms.
2️⃣ Make the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling
- In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and chopped strawberries until smooth.
- Transfer to a piping bag or ziplock bag and set aside.
3️⃣ Shape the Donut Holes
- Take about 1 tablespoon of dough, flatten it slightly, and place a small amount of strawberry cheesecake filling in the center.
- Carefully pinch the edges together to seal the filling inside and roll into a ball.
4️⃣ Cook the Donut Holes
🔹 Option 1: Deep-Fried (Traditional & Crispy!)
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry donut holes in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate.
🔹 Option 2: Baked (Lighter & Still Delicious!)
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place donut holes on a lined baking sheet and brush with melted butter.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown.
🔹 Option 3: Air-Fried (Healthiest & Crispy!)
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray donut holes with cooking spray and air-fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway.
5️⃣ Coat in Cinnamon-Sugar
- While still warm, roll donut holes in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat.
- If baked or air-fried, brush with melted butter first to help the sugar stick.
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of melted white chocolate, or extra fresh strawberries on the side! 🍓
🍽️ How to Enjoy These Donut Holes
✔ Paired with Coffee or Tea for Breakfast ☕
✔ As a Dessert with Whipped Cream or Ice Cream 🍦
✔ Served at Brunch, Parties, or Special Occasions 🎉
✔ Dipped in a Strawberry or Chocolate Sauce 🍫🍓
🛠️ Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore softness.
- Freeze: Freeze unfilled donut holes for up to 2 months—reheat and add filling before serving.
💖 Why You’ll LOVE This Recipe!
✔ Soft, Fluffy, & Sweet – A melt-in-your-mouth texture with a creamy surprise inside! 🍩
✔ Perfectly Balanced Flavor – The warm cinnamon, tangy cream cheese, and sweet strawberries are irresistible! 🍓🧀
✔ Easy to Make – No yeast required, quick & beginner-friendly! ⏳
✔ Baked, Fried, or Air-Fried Options – Customize to your preference! 🔥
These Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes are the ultimate bite-sized treat—soft, warm, and filled with sweet strawberry cheesecake goodness! 😍
💬 Tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments below! ⬇️🔥🍩🍓