There’s something magical about taking two classic desserts and merging them into one irresistible treat. My grandmother was always a dessert innovator — one day she filled jelly donuts with her homemade strawberry cheesecake mix “just to see what would happen.” The result? Pure bliss.
These Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts are a luxurious mash-up of creamy, tangy cheesecake and sweet strawberry preserves, all tucked inside a soft, pillowy donut. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a birthday, or just need a pick-me-up, this recipe is your golden ticket.
Why You’ll Love These Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts
- 🍓 Bright strawberry flavor + rich cream cheese filling
- 🍩 No frying or dough-making needed
- ⏱️ Ready in 20 minutes with minimal prep
- ❄️☀️ Perfect for summer gatherings or winter treats
- ✨ Looks bakery-fancy with little effort
Ingredients – What You’ll Need
This recipe makes 6 stuffed donuts:
Donuts:
- 6 soft unfilled donuts (glazed or plain yeast-style preferred)
Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup strawberry preserves or jam (smooth, not chunky)
Topping (Optional):
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh strawberry slices
- Crushed graham crackers for a cheesecake-style crunch
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts
🕓 Prep Time: 15 minutes
🧊 Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional for firmer filling)
🍽 Servings: 6
Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Fold in the strawberry preserves gently to create a swirled effect, or fully mix for a pink filling.
Step 2: Prep the Donuts
Using a paring knife or skewer, poke a hole into the side of each donut and gently twist to create space inside for the filling. Be careful not to puncture the opposite side.
Step 3: Fill the Donuts
Transfer the filling to a piping bag fitted with a round tip (or use a ziplock bag with the corner snipped). Pipe the cheesecake mixture into each donut until you feel slight resistance.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
Dust with powdered sugar, garnish with fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a chilled dessert.
Seasonal Tips
☀ Summer:
- Serve with chilled lemonade or iced coffee.
- Use fresh strawberry puree in place of preserves.
- Store donuts in the fridge for a refreshing cold bite.
❄ Winter:
- Warm in the microwave for 10 seconds for a gooey filling.
- Add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for cozy notes.
- Pair with hot chocolate or mulled wine.
Tips for Success
- Use yeast donuts for best results — they’re lighter and hold fillings well.
- Don’t overfill — too much can break the donut open.
- Chill the filling for 15–30 minutes for easier piping.
- Use a piping bag to keep things neat and efficient.
Recipe Variations
- Lemon Cheesecake Donuts: Swap strawberry jam for lemon curd.
- Chocolate Strawberry: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped nuts or drizzle with almond glaze.
- Berries & Cream: Use raspberry or blueberry preserves for variety.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Make ahead: Filling can be made 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
- Filled donuts: Best enjoyed same day, but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Freezing not recommended once filled, as cream cheese may separate.
Nutrition (Per Donut)
- Calories: ~380
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugars: 23g
- Protein: 5g
What to Serve With Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts
- Drinks:
- Cold brew coffee
- Strawberry milk
- Mimosas
- Other Treats:
- Mini fruit tarts
- Cheesecake bites
- Chocolate-dipped strawberries
- Occasions:
- Baby showers
- Valentine’s Day brunch
- Holiday dessert spreads
FAQs
Can I use homemade donuts?
Absolutely! Homemade yeast donuts or even baked donuts work well.
Can I use jelly instead of preserves?
Yes, but avoid chunky jam. Smooth textures pipe best and don’t clog the tip.
Can I skip the sugar in the filling?
You can reduce it, but it balances the tang of the cream cheese. Taste and adjust.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Bring to room temp or warm slightly before serving.
Why These Donuts Are Worth It All Year Round
Few things in life rival biting into a fluffy donut that’s bursting with luscious, strawberry cheesecake filling. These Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts hit every craving: creamy, fruity, sweet, and soft. Best of all, they’re simple to make, require no baking or frying, and can be customized for any season.
Whether you’re surprising guests at brunch or treating yourself to something special, these donuts deliver a delightful twist on a beloved classic.
Share Your Donut Magic! 🍩
Tried this recipe? Tag your creations with #StrawberryCheesecakeDonuts and let me see your sweet success! I’d love to feature your treats.