Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts

### **How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts**

#### **Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Sauce**
1. In a saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Cook the mixture for about 10-12 minutes, occasionally stirring, until the strawberries break down and the sauce thickens slightly.
3. If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in a tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
4. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

#### **Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling**
1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream, then beat until well combined and the mixture is fluffy and light.
3. Transfer the cheesecake filling to a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the tip cut off. Set aside in the refrigerator until ready to fill the donuts.

#### **Step 3: Prepare the Donut Dough**
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, but not too wet. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
4. Lightly flour your work surface and knead the dough a few times to bring it together. Roll it out to about ½ inch thickness.

#### **Step 4: Cut and Fry the Donuts**
1. Use a round cookie cutter or a drinking glass to cut out circles of dough. For the donut holes, use a smaller cutter to make the center.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). You’ll need enough oil to fully submerge the donuts.
3. Carefully drop the dough circles into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove the donuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

#### **Step 5: Fill the Donuts**
1. Once the donuts have cooled slightly, make a small hole in the side of each donut using a skewer or a small knife.
2. Pipe the cheesecake filling into each donut, filling them generously.
3. Spoon the strawberry sauce into the center of each filled donut, allowing it to ooze out slightly for that perfect stuffed effect.

#### **Step 6: Coat the Donuts**
1. In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon (if using).
2. Gently roll the filled donuts in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, coating them evenly for a sweet, flavorful finish.

#### **Step 7: Serve and Enjoy**
1. Serve the strawberry cheesecake stuffed donuts immediately, while they’re still fresh and warm.
2. These donuts are best enjoyed with a cup of coffee, milk, or your favorite beverage.

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### **Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts**

– **Fresh Strawberries for the Sauce**: Using fresh strawberries for the sauce ensures the best flavor and texture. If fresh strawberries aren’t available, you can substitute frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them before using.
– **Make the Filling in Advance**: You can prepare the cheesecake filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. This will help it firm up, making it easier to pipe into the donuts.
– **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan**: When frying the donuts, fry them in small batches to avoid lowering the temperature of the oil. This ensures the donuts cook evenly and get crispy without becoming greasy.
– **Coat Immediately**: For the best results, coat the donuts in cinnamon-sugar or plain sugar right after frying, while they’re still warm.

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### **Serving Suggestions**

– **For a Brunch**: Serve these stuffed donuts as part of a decadent brunch spread. They’re sure to be the star of the table.
– **With Extra Strawberry Sauce**: Drizzle some extra strawberry sauce over the donuts before serving, or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
– **With Whipped Cream**: Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top of the donuts for an even richer dessert experience.
– **For Special Occasions**: These donuts are perfect for celebrations like birthdays, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a little indulgence.

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### **Why This Recipe Works**

The combination of soft, pillowy donuts with the rich, creamy cheesecake filling and sweet strawberry sauce is a flavor explosion that’s hard to beat. The fluffy texture of the donuts contrasts perfectly with the tangy sweetness of the cheesecake, and the strawberry sauce adds a refreshing burst of fruitiness. The cinnamon-sugar coating adds a final touch of sweetness that makes every bite irresistible.

These **strawberry cheesecake stuffed donuts** are a perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself to something sweet. With this recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy the best of both worlds—donuts and cheesecake—right in your own kitchen.

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### **Conclusion**

**Strawberry cheesecake stuffed donuts** are a fun and delicious twist on a classic dessert. Whether you’re looking for a special treat for a brunch or simply craving something indulgent, these donuts deliver a perfect combination of textures and flavors. Fluffy donuts filled with rich cheesecake and topped with sweet strawberry sauce are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Give this recipe a try, and indulge in the creamy, fruity goodness of these irresistible stuffed donuts!