These Strawberry Cheesecake Donuts are an irresistible mashup of classic comfort and luscious indulgence. Imagine fluffy, yeast-raised donuts fried to golden perfection, then glazed with a creamy strawberry icing and sprinkled with bits of cheesecake crumble. Every bite delivers a tender, pillowy center, a zing of berry sweetness, and the unmistakable richness of cheesecake.

They’re perfect for brunch gatherings, birthdays, or when you just want to impress with something vibrant and special. The pink glaze and crumbled toppings don’t just add flavor—they make these donuts visually stunning, capturing the playful charm of strawberries and cream in donut form.

What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?

Actually, no puff pastry is used in this recipe. These donuts are made from a soft yeast dough that gets its airy texture from proper proofing and gentle frying. If you’re looking for a shortcut, store-bought biscuit dough can be used, but the classic homemade version is well worth the effort.

Ingredients for the Strawberry Cheesecake Donuts

All-Purpose Flour
This forms the base of our yeast dough, giving the donuts structure and tenderness.

Active Dry Yeast
Essential for making the dough rise, giving it a soft, airy texture.

Whole Milk
Warm milk activates the yeast and enriches the dough for a soft crumb.

Granulated Sugar
Adds sweetness to the dough and helps with browning.

Salt
Balances out the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

Unsalted Butter
Adds moisture and richness to the dough.

Eggs
They bind the dough and add fluffiness.

Strawberry Jam or Puree
Used in the glaze for a naturally sweet and fruity flavor.

Powdered Sugar
Gives the glaze its silky texture.

Cream Cheese
Adds tang and richness to the cheesecake crumble topping.

Graham Cracker Crumbs
Classic cheesecake flavor note and a bit of crunch on top.

Freeze-Dried Strawberries (optional)
For a pop of color and concentrated berry flavor.

How To Make the Strawberry Cheesecake Donuts

Step 1: Make the Donut Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, a tablespoon of sugar, and the active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add the remaining sugar, eggs, melted butter, and salt. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape and Proof the Donuts

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to about ½ inch thick. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one large and one small for the center hole) to cut out donuts. Place them on a parchment-lined tray, cover lightly with a towel, and let them proof for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 3: Fry the Donuts

Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts in batches for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and place on a wire rack over paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them cool slightly before glazing.

Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together strawberry puree or jam with powdered sugar until smooth and thick but pourable. You can adjust consistency by adding more powdered sugar or a splash of milk if needed.

Step 5: Make the Cheesecake Crumble

In a small bowl, blend softened cream cheese with a little powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in graham cracker crumbs until you have a soft, crumbly texture. Set aside.

Step 6: Assemble the Donuts

Dip each donut into the strawberry glaze, allowing excess to drip off. Sprinkle with cheesecake crumble and crushed freeze-dried strawberries if using. Let them set for a few minutes so the glaze firms up before serving.

How to Serve and Store These Donuts

Strawberry Cheesecake Donuts are best served fresh, ideally within a few hours of glazing. They make a stunning addition to any brunch table, dessert spread, or sweet breakfast moment. Pair them with a hot latte, cold brew, or even a glass of sparkling rosé for a playful twist.

If you need to make them ahead, you can fry the donuts a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Wait to glaze and garnish until just before serving for the freshest presentation.

To store leftovers, keep glazed donuts in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to 3 days—just know the glaze may lose its sheen. Avoid freezing glazed donuts, but the unglazed fried donuts freeze well for up to a month.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know my dough is proofed enough?

It should double in size and feel soft and slightly springy. When poked gently, the indentation should slowly bounce back.

Can I bake the donuts instead of frying?

You can, but expect a denser texture. Bake at 375°F for about 8–10 minutes. They won’t get the same golden crispness as frying.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes! Refrigerated biscuit or donut dough can work in a pinch. Just be sure to monitor frying time as they may cook faster.

What’s the best oil for frying donuts?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil.

How do I keep the glaze from sliding off?

Let the donuts cool slightly before glazing. If they’re too hot, the glaze will melt right off.

Can I skip the cheesecake crumble?

Of course! They’re still delicious with just the strawberry glaze, but the crumble adds that extra cheesecake flavor.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Fruity Twist?

If you love these Strawberry Cheesecake Donuts, you’ll want to check out more of these delightful fruity creations:

Strawberry Puff Pastry Hearts for a flaky and simple treat.
Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls that melt in your mouth.
No-Bake Easy Cherry Chocolate Chip Pie for a chill, creamy dessert.
Strawberry Animal Cookie Cheesecake for a colorful, nostalgic surprise.
Cheesecake Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies that take fall flavors to the next level.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it anytime.

And I’d love to hear how your donuts turned out! Did you make the cheesecake crumble extra chunky? Try freeze-dried raspberries instead of strawberries?

Leave a comment and share your twist. Let’s bake something beautiful together!

Strawberry Cheesecake Donuts

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 2 hours (includes rise time)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: About 12 donuts 1x
Category: Desserts

Print Recipe

Description

These Strawberry Cheesecake Donuts are soft, golden, yeast-raised treats dipped in a luscious strawberry glaze and finished with a tangy cheesecake crumble. Perfect for a brunch table centerpiece or a playful dessert.

Instructions

Combine warm milk, 1 tbsp sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit until foamy (5–10 min).
Add remaining sugar, eggs, melted butter, and salt. Mix in flour gradually until dough forms.
Knead dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled.
Roll dough to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut donuts and let them proof for 30–45 minutes.
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts 1–2 minutes per side until golden. Drain on rack.
Whisk strawberry puree with powdered sugar for glaze.
Mix cream cheese and powdered sugar, then stir in graham crumbs for crumble.
Dip cooled donuts in glaze. Sprinkle with cheesecake crumble and freeze-dried strawberries.