Name: Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 cup warm milk ((whole milk preferred, 90°F to 100°F)); 1 tablespoon instant yeast or active dry yeast; 3 tablespoons granulated sugar; 4 cups bread flour ((spooned and leveled; all-purpose flour can be used instead)); 2 large eggs ((room temperature)); 1 teaspoon salt; 8 tablespoons unsalted butter ((room temperature)); 2 quarts vegetable oil ((enough to fry the donuts)); 3 cups frozen raspberries; 4 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 8 ounces cream cheese; ½ cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy donut that has the delightful tang of cream cheese and the sweet-tart burst of raspberries. These Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts are not just a treat; they’re an experience. Perfectly soft and decadently filled, these donuts will satisfy your sweet tooth while impressing your friends and family. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, dessert, or a mid-afternoon snack, they are sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

These Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts stand out because they combine the best elements of two beloved desserts: donuts and cheesecake. The rich cream cheese filling is complemented by the vibrant raspberry flavor, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. The donut dough is light and airy, making each bite feel indulgent without being heavy. Plus, they’re made at home, allowing for customization and freshness that store-bought options just can’t compete with!

Ingredient Checklist

To whip up these delightful Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup warm milk (whole milk preferred, 90°F to 100°F)
1 tablespoon instant yeast or active dry yeast
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
4 cups bread flour (spooned and leveled; all-purpose flour can be used instead)
2 large eggs (room temperature)
1 teaspoon salt
8 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
Vegetable oil (enough to fry the donuts, about 2 quarts)
3 cups frozen raspberries
4 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
8 ounces cream cheese
½ cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Recommended Tools

Before you start, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
Whisk – to blend the wet and dry ingredients smoothly.
Rolling pin – for rolling out the donut dough.
Cookie cutter or a round cutter – to shape the donuts.
Frying thermometer – to ensure the oil is at the right temperature.
Slotted spoon – for safely removing donuts from the oil.
Piping bag – for filling the donuts with cream cheese mixture.

Cooking Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, ensuring your donuts rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Add the granulated sugar, eggs, salt, and room temperature butter to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined. Gradually add the flour, mixing with a spatula until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Raspberry Filling

While the dough rises, prepare the raspberry filling. In a medium saucepan, combine the frozen raspberries, 4 tablespoons of sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the raspberries break down and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until creamy. Add the heavy whipping cream, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy. Transfer to a piping bag and set aside.

Step 6: Shape the Donuts

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out to about ½ inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out donut shapes. Place the donuts on a floured baking sheet and cover them with a towel. Allow them to rest for about 30 minutes.

Step 7: Fry the Donuts

In a large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F. Carefully drop in a few donuts at a time, frying for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 8: Fill the Donuts

Once the donuts have cooled slightly, use the piping bag to fill each donut with the cream cheese mixture. Then, use a spoon to add the raspberry filling inside.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Dust the filled donuts with powdered sugar or drizzle with a raspberry glaze for an extra special touch. Serve fresh and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

Smart Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize this recipe, consider these substitutions:

Milk: You can use almond milk or oat milk if you prefer a non-dairy option.
Butter: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
Flour: Whole wheat flour can be substituted for a heartier texture.
Raspberries: Fresh raspberries can be used instead of frozen, but be sure to reduce the cooking time.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Even experienced bakers can encounter pitfalls. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

Using cold ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for the best texture.
Not allowing the dough to rise: Skipping the rising time can result in dense donuts.
Overcrowding the frying pan: Fry donuts in small batches to maintain the oil temperature.
Underfilling the donuts: Don’t be shy with the filling; a generous amount makes each bite enjoyable!

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

To keep your Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts fresh:

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the unfilled donuts for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 5-10 minutes. Fill them with the cream cheese and raspberry mixtures just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Reader Questions

Can I bake these donuts instead of frying them?

Absolutely! For baked donuts, preheat your oven to 375°F and use a donut pan. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. They won’t have the same texture as fried donuts, but they will still be delicious!

How can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a thick Greek yogurt as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different, but still creamy and delicious!

Can I use other fruits for the filling?

Yes! Other berries such as blueberries or strawberries, or even fruits like peaches or cherries, can be used for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the sugar level based on the fruit’s sweetness.

Make It Tonight

These Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts are waiting for you to indulge in their delightful flavors. They’re not only a fantastic treat for a special occasion but also a fun weekend project to enjoy with family or friends. With simple ingredients and a step-by-step process, you can create a batch of these heavenly donuts that will impress everyone. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let your kitchen be filled with the sweet aroma of freshly fried donuts. You won’t regret it!