Raspberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts

The first bite into a Raspberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut is pure magic. Your teeth break through a golden, pillowy exterior, giving way to the creamy richness of cheesecake filling and the tangy-sweet burst of raspberry. The aroma of freshly fried dough mingled with a fruity sweetness invites you closer, making each moment with these treats as indulgent as the last. Trust me, you’re going to love this one.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born out of a craving for something that felt like a bakery indulgence without leaving home. I imagined the joy of a fairground jelly donut and the elegance of a New York cheesecake, then decided to combine them into a handheld delight. The result is a dessert that feels nostalgic yet elevated, reminding me of lazy weekend mornings when the kitchen smelled of sugar and butter.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Stuffed donuts trace their history back to 16th-century Europe, where sweetened dough was fried and filled with jams or custards. Cheesecake, on the other hand, has roots as far back as ancient Greece. The pairing of tangy cream cheese filling with bright raspberry is a nod to American diner desserts, where fruit-topped cheesecakes are a timeless favorite. This mashup takes the best of both worlds and gives it a playful twist.

Why You’ll Love Raspberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts

Versatile: These donuts are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet afternoon snack.

Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry staples keep costs low without sacrificing flavor.

Quick and Easy: With store-bought jam and straightforward steps, you’ll have these ready in under an hour.

Customizable: Swap raspberries for blueberries, strawberries, or even chocolate filling for variety.

Crowd-Pleasing: Soft, creamy, and fruity — a combination no guest can resist.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the cheesecake filling in advance to save time.

Great for Leftovers: Warm them slightly in the oven, and they taste freshly made.

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

The secret to these donuts lies in balance — not too greasy, not too sweet.

• Chill the cheesecake filling before piping to make it easier to work with.
• Keep your oil at a steady medium heat to ensure even frying.
• Roll the donuts in sugar while still warm so it sticks beautifully.
• Use a piping bag with a long nozzle for even filling distribution.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make these donuts a success, you’ll need:

Mixing Bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients.
Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: To whip the cheesecake filling to a creamy texture.
Heavy-Bottomed Pot or Deep Fryer: For even frying.
Slotted Spoon: To lift donuts from hot oil safely.
Piping Bag with Nozzle: For injecting the raspberry cheesecake filling.

Ingredients in Raspberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts

Each ingredient plays its own role in making these treats unforgettable.

1. All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups, provides the structure and softness.
2. Granulated Sugar: 1/3 cup, sweetens the dough and adds a crisp sugar coating.
3. Instant Yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons, helps the dough rise and become airy.
4. Whole Milk: 3/4 cup (warm), activates the yeast and enriches the dough.
5. Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup (softened), adds richness and moisture.
6. Eggs: 2 large, provide structure and tenderness.
7. Salt: 1 teaspoon, balances sweetness.
8. Cream Cheese: 8 ounces (softened), forms the creamy cheesecake base.
9. Powdered Sugar: 1/2 cup, sweetens and smooths the filling.
10. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, adds warmth to the filling.
11. Raspberry Jam: 1/2 cup, gives fruity tang and color.
12. Vegetable Oil: For frying, ensures golden crispness.

Ingredient Substitutions

All-Purpose Flour: Can be replaced with bread flour for a chewier bite.
Whole Milk: Use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
Cream Cheese: Vegan cream cheese works for a plant-based twist.
Raspberry Jam: Swap with strawberry or blueberry jam for flavor variety.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cream Cheese: Smooth, tangy, and rich, it balances the sweetness of the jam perfectly.
Raspberry Jam: Bursting with tart fruitiness, it brings brightness to every bite.

Instructions for Making Raspberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts

Making these donuts is a joy — here’s how to bring them to life:

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Warm the milk until it’s just lukewarm, then set up your fryer or heavy-bottomed pot with oil.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and a teaspoon of sugar. Let it foam, then add remaining sugar, eggs, butter, salt, and flour. Knead until smooth.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Heat oil to 350°F, keeping it steady for even cooking.
4. Assemble the Dish: Roll dough into balls, place on a baking sheet, and let rise until doubled in size.
5. Cook to Perfection: Fry donuts in batches until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
6. Finishing Touches: Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until creamy. Fold in raspberry jam gently. Pipe filling into each donut.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Roll warm donuts in sugar, arrange on a plate, and serve fresh.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The fluffy dough contrasts beautifully with the cool, creamy cheesecake filling. The sugar coating adds a delicate crunch, while the raspberry jam provides a tangy pop that cuts through the richness. Each bite is an irresistible mix of sweet, tart, creamy, and airy.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Keep your oil temperature consistent to avoid greasy or undercooked donuts.
• Test one donut first to ensure proper frying time.
• Use fresh, high-quality jam for the best flavor burst.

What to Avoid

• Overcrowding the fryer, which lowers oil temperature and causes soggy donuts.
• Overfilling with jam, which can cause leaks during frying.
• Using cold cream cheese, which results in lumpy filling.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 285

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the cheesecake filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Fried donuts are best eaten fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat in a warm oven, or freeze unfilled donuts for up to a month.

How to Serve Raspberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts

Serve them dusted with powdered sugar on a beautiful platter. Pair with fresh raspberries and a pot of coffee for an elegant brunch spread.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Slice donuts and layer with ice cream for a decadent dessert sandwich.
• Cube them and make a raspberry cheesecake bread pudding.
• Serve with whipped cream and fresh berries for a lighter twist.

Additional Tips

For an extra flavor boost, mix a little lemon zest into the cheesecake filling. This adds brightness that enhances the raspberry notes.

Make It a Showstopper

Arrange donuts in a tiered stand with fresh flowers or berries tucked between layers. A light drizzle of raspberry glaze can add a glossy, eye-catching finish.

Variations to Try

• Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Donuts with lemon zest and blueberry jam.
• Chocolate Cheesecake Donuts with cocoa powder in the dough and chocolate filling.
• Strawberry Shortcake Donuts topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries.

FAQ’s

1. Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. Bake at 375°F until golden.

2. Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, thaw and drain before making jam or mixing into the filling.

3. How do I keep donuts fresh longer?

Store in an airtight container and reheat gently in the oven.

4. Can I make the dough ahead?

Yes, refrigerate overnight and bring to room temperature before frying.

5. What oil is best for frying?

Vegetable or canola oil works well for a neutral flavor.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just keep oil temperature steady.

7. How do I prevent oil from splattering?

Use a deep pot and avoid overfilling with oil.

8. Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Yes, but plain gives the most balanced flavor.

9. Are these suitable for kids?

Definitely, they’ll love the sweet and fruity filling.

10. Can I make them gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for yeast baking.

Conclusion

Raspberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts bring together the best of two worlds: the comfort of homemade donuts and the indulgence of creamy cheesecake. Each bite is a celebration of texture and flavor, making them the perfect treat for special occasions or simply to brighten an ordinary day. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite

Watch How to Make Raspberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts