Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe moment I bite into a freshly fried donut, the world melts away, and I am transported to a quaint bakery humming with laughter and warmth. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts, a delightful fusion of fluffy dough, rich cheesecake filling, and a tangy raspberry glaze that’ll make your taste buds dance. These little gems are not only a crowd-pleaser, but they also come together easily, making them perfect for brunch gatherings or a special dessert after a cozy dinner. Embrace the joy of homemade indulgence as you whip up these vibrant treats right in your kitchen. Curious about how to create this sweet symphony of flavors? Let’s dive into the delicious details! Why Are Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts So Irresistible? Decadent Flavor: The rich blend of creamy cheesecake and sweet raspberries creates a burst of flavor that’s simply unforgettable. Buttery Dough: With a soft, airy texture, these donuts promise a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and the fluffy interior. Easy to Make: Even beginners can achieve that bakery-quality taste at home with simple ingredients and techniques. Crowd Favorite: Perfect for brunch or dessert, these donuts are guaranteed to impress family and friends, just like my Cherry Cheesecake Puppy or Churro Cheesecake Bliss. Customizable: Swap the raspberry glaze for your favorite fruit or infuse the cheesecake filling with unique flavors for a personal touch! Embrace the wonderful world of homemade pastries with these delightful Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts that bring a little joy to any occasion. Raspberry Cheesecake Donut Ingredients For the Dough Warm Whole Milk (1 cup) – Activates the yeast and enriches the dough; use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Instant Yeast (1 tablespoon) – A crucial leavening agent that helps the dough rise; active dry yeast can be substituted if you proof it first. Granulated Sugar (3 tablespoons) – This adds sweetness and sustenance for yeast. Bread Flour (4 cups, or all-purpose) – Creates a chewier texture; all-purpose flour makes for a softer crumb. Large Eggs (2) – Enrich the dough and contribute to its overall structure. Unsalted Butter, softened (4 tablespoons) – Adds richness and flavor to the donuts. Salt (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the flavor of the dough. Oil for Frying – Necessary for cooking up those delicious donuts. For the Filling Cream Cheese, softened (8 ounces) – Forms a creamy filling; vegan cream cheese works if you’re aiming for a dairy-free option. Powdered Sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens the cheesecake filling without adding any gritty texture. Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Adds a lovely flavor to the filling. For the Glaze Fresh or Frozen Raspberries (1 cup) – These are turned into a tangy glaze; thawed frozen raspberries can be used as a substitute. Powdered Sugar for Glaze (1 cup) – Sweetens and thickens the raspberry glaze to perfection. Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon) – Adds the right acidity to balance the sweetness in the glaze. Get ready for a culinary adventure as you gather these ingredients, and soon you’ll be indulging in your own homemade Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts Step 1: Activate Yeast In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of warm whole milk, 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon of instant yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes, until it becomes frothy and bubbly—this indicates that the yeast is ready to work its magic in creating fluffy Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts. Step 2: Prepare Dough Add 2 large eggs, 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter, and 4 cups of bread flour (or all-purpose) to the frothy yeast mixture. Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for 8 to 10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly tacky but not stick excessively to your hands. Step 3: First Rise Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until it has doubled in size. The dough will be ready when it feels airy and puffy, perfect for creating those delicious Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts. Step 4: Shape Donuts After the first rise, punch the dough down to release air, then roll it out on a floured surface to about ½-inch thick. Use a donut cutter to cut out donuts and donut holes. Place the formed donuts on a floured baking sheet and cover them with a towel. Allow them to rise again for 30 to 45 minutes, until slightly puffed. Step 5: Fry Donuts Heat oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully slide the risen donuts into the hot oil, frying for about 1 minute per side or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to lift them out and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, ensuring that these Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts turn out perfectly crispy. Step 6: Make Filling In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, ½ cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture becomes fluffy and creamy. Transfer the cream cheese filling to a piping bag with a round tip to easily fill the cooled donuts after frying. Step 7: Prepare Glaze For the raspberry glaze, cook 1 cup of fresh or frozen raspberries in a small saucepan with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 1 cup of powdered sugar. Simmer until the raspberries break down, then strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds. The smooth, glossy glaze is ready to adorn your Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts. Step 8: Assemble Once the donuts have cooled completely, use the piping bag to fill each donut with the creamy cheesecake filling through the side. Dip the tops of each filled donut into the vibrant raspberry glaze, allowing excess glaze to drip off. Let the glaze set for a few minutes, and your delectable Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts are now ready to impress! Make Ahead Options These Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by refrigerating it after the first rise; just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying. Additionally, the cream cheese filling can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply allow the dough to come to room temperature, shape the donuts, and let them rise as directed before frying. This way, you’ll have a delightful treat ready to impress with minimal effort! What to Serve with Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts These delightful treats are perfect for enhancing a cozy brunch or sweet ending to a meal. Coffee: The rich aroma and warmth of a freshly brewed cup balance beautifully with the sweet, tangy donuts, perfect for a pick-me-up. Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of juicy fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the indulgent donuts, providing a light and vibrant touch. Yogurt Parfaits: Layering creamy yogurt with granola and berries complements the rich filling, creating a satisfying blend of textures and flavors. Mimosa: A sparkling citrus drink adds a festive twist while the effervescence lifts the sweetness of the donuts to new heights. Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy scoops provide a delightful chill against the warm donuts, intensifying their flavor experience. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of whipped cream atop these donuts can enhance their indulgent nature, making each bite even more luxurious. Chocolate Drizzle: A decadent drizzle of warm chocolate sauce can add another layer of sweetness, appealing to every chocolate lover. Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade creates a refreshing balance, cutting through the richness and brightening the overall flavor profile. How to Store and Freeze Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts Room Temperature: Keep unfilled donuts at room temperature for up to 24 hours in an airtight container to maintain their delightful texture. Fridge: Filled donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but if stored, place them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep them covered to prevent drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze plain, unfilled donuts by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring to an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheating: To enjoy your Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts, reheat frozen donuts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts: Delicious Twists Await Feel free to explore these delightful variations that can make your Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts uniquely yours! Fruit Swap: Use strawberries or blueberries instead of raspberries for a fresh fruit flavor. Each fruit brings its own sweetness, enhancing the overall experience! Citrus Infusion: Add lemon zest to the cheesecake filling for a bright, tangy twist that complements the fruit glaze perfectly. It’s a refreshing surprise! Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the donut dough for added crunch and flavor. This adds dimension and a comforting nuttiness. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these donuts suitable for those avoiding gluten. Your guests will never guess they’re gluten-free! Baked Version: Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes instead of frying for a lighter treat. The texture will be denser but still delightfully delicious! Creamy Filling Boost: Stir in a tablespoon of nut butter to the cheesecake filling for a rich, creamy upgrade. Almond or peanut butter could be heavenly! Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm spice that lingers beautifully. It’s a cozy addition for cold seasons. Gourmet Glaze: Enhance the raspberry glaze with a touch of balsamic reduction for a sophisticated twist. It will elevate the flavor profile to new heights! By experimenting with these variations, you can delight your taste buds and create moments of culinary joy, reminiscent of my delightful Cream Oreo Cheesecake or the delightful Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls. Your journey in the kitchen just became even more delicious! Expert Tips for Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is slightly tacky but pulls away from the bowl easily. This consistency is crucial for achieving light, fluffy donuts. Frying Technique: Avoid overcrowding the pot when frying. This maintains the oil temperature for crispy outer layers and perfectly cooked insides. Fill Them Right: Allow the donuts to cool completely before filling with cream cheese. This prevents the filling from melting and keeps it luscious and intact. Glaze Perfection: Let the raspberry glaze set for a few minutes. This allows it to firm up slightly, creating a beautiful finish on your Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts. Storage Knowledge: Best enjoyed fresh! Unfilled donuts can be stored at room temperature for up to 24 hours. Fill and glaze just before serving for optimal flavor. Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts Recipe FAQs What type of milk should I use for the dough? Warm whole milk is ideal as it activates the yeast and enriches the dough. However, if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, almond or oat milk can be used with great results! How should I store leftover Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts? Unfilled donuts can be stored at room temperature for up to 24 hours in an airtight container. If you have filled donuts, they can last in the refrigerator for about 3 days, but make sure to cover them to keep them moist. Can I freeze Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts? Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze plain unfilled donuts by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. What do I do if my dough is too sticky? If you find your dough is excessively sticky, add a sprinkle of flour, one tablespoon at a time, while kneading until it reaches the right consistency. It should be slightly tacky but still pull away from the bowl. Are Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts safe for people with gluten allergies? Unfortunately, these donuts are not suitable for those with gluten allergies as they contain bread flour. You may experiment with a gluten-free flour blend, but note that the texture and rise may differ. How can I ensure my donuts fry evenly and don’t soak up too much oil? Make sure your oil temperature is maintained at 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy. And remember, frying in small batches helps keep the temperature consistent, leading to perfectly cooked, non-greasy donuts! Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts: A Sweet Indulgence You’ll Love Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts are a delightful fusion of fluffy dough, rich cheesecake filling, and a tangy raspberry glaze that’ll make your taste buds dance. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsRising Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 12 donutsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough1 cup Warm Whole Milk Activates the yeast, almond or oat milk for dairy-free version.1 tablespoon Instant Yeast Active dry yeast can be substituted if proofed first.3 tablespoons Granulated Sugar Adds sweetness and sustenance for yeast.4 cups Bread Flour All-purpose flour can be used for a softer crumb.2 large Eggs Enrich the dough.4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, softened Adds richness and flavor.1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor.Oil for Frying Necessary for cooking donuts.For the Filling8 ounces Cream Cheese, softened Vegan cream cheese for dairy-free option.½ cup Powdered Sugar Sweetens without gritty texture.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Adds flavor.For the Glaze1 cup Fresh or Frozen Raspberries Thawed frozen raspberries can be used.1 cup Powdered Sugar for Glaze Sweetens and thickens glaze.1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Adds acidity to balance sweetness. Equipment Stand mixer or mixing bowlDonut cutterdeep pot or fryersaucepanpiping bag Method Step-by-Step InstructionsActivate Yeast: Combine warm milk, granulated sugar, and instant yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.Prepare Dough: Add eggs, softened butter, and bread flour to the yeast mixture. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours until doubled in size.Shape Donuts: Punch down the dough, roll to ½-inch thick, cut out donuts and holes. Let rise on a floured sheet for 30-45 minutes.Fry Donuts: Heat oil to 350°F, fry donuts for 1 minute per side until golden brown.Make Filling: Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until fluffy, transfer to a piping bag.Prepare Glaze: Cook raspberries with lemon juice and powdered sugar, simmer and strain to remove seeds.Assemble: Fill cooled donuts with cream cheese, dip tops in raspberry glaze, and let set. Nutrition Serving: 1donutCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 3mgIron: 6mg NotesBest enjoyed fresh! Store unfilled donuts at room temperature for up to 24 hours. Fill and glaze just before serving. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
