There’s nothing quite like the jubilant atmosphere of a weekend morning filled with the scent of freshly fried donuts wafting through the kitchen. I remember when I first set out to make these Strawberry Donut Holes—it was on one of those lazy Saturdays when I craved something sweet to brighten the day. As I combined the ripe strawberries with a fluffy batter, a wave of anticipation filled the air.
These delightful bites are not just a treat for the taste buds; they invite everyone to gather around and savor the joy of homemade goodness. Perfect for brunch, an afternoon snack, or even a surprise dessert, these donut holes bring smiles to faces of all ages. The crispy exterior gives way to a sweet, soft interior bursting with fresh strawberry flavor—an irresistible delight you won’t soon forget.
So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into making these fluffy Strawberry Donut Holes that will enchant your kitchen and fill your heart with warmth!
Why are Strawberry Donut Holes a Must-Try?
Irresistible Aroma: The moment you fry these donut holes, your kitchen will be filled with a sweet, enchanting fragrance that’ll have everyone coming back for more.
Fluffy Texture: Each bite offers a light, airy feel that pairs perfectly with the juicy strawberry pieces.
Effortless Enjoyment: With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll whip up these treats in no time—perfect for busy weekends!
Customizable Delight: Want a twist? You can easily substitute strawberries with other fruits or even add a splash of citrus zest for extra zing!
Crowd Pleaser: Serve these at any gathering and watch as they disappear in a flash; they’re sure to impress friends and family alike.
For a delightful companion, consider these tips and tricks for frying.
Strawberry Donut Holes Ingredients
For the Batter
• All-Purpose Flour – Use good quality flour for the best texture and base for the donut holes.
• Baking Powder – Essential for fluffiness—omit at your own risk!
• Granulated Sugar – Adjust according to personal taste preference to enhance the sweetness of your Strawberry Donut Holes.
• Salt – A pinch balances sweetness and improves overall taste.
For the Wet Ingredients
• Milk – Whole milk provides richness; can substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
• Eggs – Two large eggs help combine ingredients while adding moisture; optional egg replacement can be considered for a vegan version.
• Fresh Strawberries – Use ripe strawberries, chopped small for even distribution throughout the donut holes.
For Frying
• Vegetable Oil – A high smoke point oil, like canola or peanut oil, is recommended for deep frying.
For the Topping
• Cinnamon Sugar Mixture – A delightful sweet and spicy coat added after frying for extra flavor and visual appeal.
How to Make Strawberry Donut Holes
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Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined. This is your foundation for deliciously fluffy Strawberry Donut Holes!
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Combine Wet Ingredients: Gradually stir in the milk and eggs, mixing until you achieve a smooth batter. Don’t worry about perfecting it—just make sure it’s combined well.
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Add Strawberries: Gently fold in the chopped fresh strawberries, being careful not to overmix. You want those juicy bits to evenly spread throughout the batter, bringing bursts of flavor in every bite!
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Heat Oil: In a deep pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Look for that lovely shimmering surface; it’s a sign the oil is hot and ready for frying!
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Fry Donut Holes: Carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, frying 3-4 at a time. Cook until they turn golden brown, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Flip them as needed for even cooking.
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Drain and Coat: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the donut holes to paper towels to drain excess oil. While they’re still warm, roll each in the cinnamon sugar mixture to give them that magical finishing touch.
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Serve Warm: Enjoy your Strawberry Donut Holes immediately for the best flavor, either plain or with a heavenly dipping sauce on the side.
Optional: Drizzle with chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Donut Holes are fantastic for meal prep and can ease your busy mornings! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry and wet ingredients separately and storing them in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add the chopped strawberries just before frying to maintain their freshness. The uncooked batter can be refrigerated overnight without losing quality. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply heat your oil and drop spoonfuls of the batter right into the hot oil for quick frying. This way, you can serve warm, fresh donuts with minimal effort, all while saving valuable time during busy weekdays!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Donut Holes
Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is at 350°F (175°C) for perfectly fried donut holes. Lukewarm oil will lead to soggy, unappetizing results.
Strawberry Selection: Use ripe strawberries for the sweetest flavor. Bruised or overripe ones might spoil the delightful taste of your Strawberry Donut Holes.
Avoid Overmixing: When folding in strawberries, do it gently to maintain the softness of the batter. Overmixing can make your donut holes dense instead of fluffy!
Uniform Size: Use a scoop to drop the batter into the oil; it ensures even cooking and perfect-sized donut holes that look appealing.
Serving Fresh: For the best experience, serve your Strawberry Donut Holes warm. They have a delightful texture and taste that can diminish as they cool.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk to make these donut holes dairy-free while still keeping them delicious!
What to Serve with Strawberry Donut Holes?
Add the perfect touches to elevate your homemade donut experience!
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Sweet Dipping Sauce: A rich chocolate or strawberry sauce complements the fluffy donut holes, enhancing their sweet flavor with a decadent dip.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a velvety texture that pairs beautifully with the fruity taste of your strawberry treats.
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Fresh Berries: A side of mixed berries not only adds freshness but also creates a colorful contrast on the plate, making it visually delightful.
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Fruit Salad: A zesty fruit salad with a splash of citrus can balance out the sweetness and provide a refreshing palate cleanser.
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Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea pairs wonderfully, inviting you to relax and savor the moment.
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Ice Cream: For an indulgent twist, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—the creaminess enhances the flavor of the donuts beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Donut Holes
Room Temperature: Store leftover donut holes in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. Avoid exposing them to air to prevent drying out.
Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate donut holes in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Freezer: For long-term storage, place cooled donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. Then transfer to a zip-top bag, sealing well; they can last in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your frozen Strawberry Donut Holes, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their warm, fluffy texture.
Strawberry Donut Holes Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you adapt this recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs!
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Berry Swap: Exchange strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a vibrant, fruity twist that will delight your palate.
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Vegan Delight: Use a flaxseed or chia seed mixture in place of eggs and almond milk for a completely plant-based treat.
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Citrus Zing: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a refreshing pop of citrus flavor that enhances the sweetness.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate on top of the donut holes after frying for a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom into the batter to elevate the warmth of flavor and give it a cozy touch.
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Baked Option: For a healthier spin, bake the donut holes at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes instead of frying, yielding a lighter treat.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds on top before frying for added texture and a satisfying crunch.
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Glazed Finish: Transform your donut holes with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of milk for a sweet finish that’s utterly delightful.
Strawberry Donut Holes Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe strawberries for my donut holes?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red and have a fresh aroma. They should be firm but slightly soft to the touch, indicating ripeness. Avoid those with dark spots or signs of mold, as they affect both flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover Strawberry Donut Holes?
Store any leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them fresher for longer, you can refrigerate them, where they will last for about 5 days. Just make sure to reheat them before serving to restore their delightful softness!
Can I freeze Strawberry Donut Holes?
Absolutely! To freeze, first allow the donut holes to cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour until solid. Afterwards, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag, sealing well to prevent air. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
What should I do if my donut holes aren’t cooking evenly?
If your donut holes are browning too quickly on the outside but remain uncooked on the inside, it may be a sign that your oil is too hot. Use a thermometer to ensure it stays at 350°F (175°C). If they are cooking too slowly, increase the temperature slightly. Frying in small batches also helps maintain consistent temperature.
Can I make these donut holes dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily make these Strawberry Donut Holes dairy-free by substituting whole milk with almond or oat milk. This keeps the batter moist while catering to dietary needs. Be sure to check any other ingredients you are using to ensure they are also dairy-free!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen donut holes?
To reheat frozen donut holes, first, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Then, for a fluffy, fresh taste, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat them for about 5-7 minutes. This method restores their texture beautifully, making them taste just as delightful as when they were first made!
Homemade Strawberry Donut Holes That Will Brighten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined.
- Gradually stir in the milk and eggs, mixing until you achieve a smooth batter.
- Gently fold in the chopped fresh strawberries.
- In a deep pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, frying 3-4 at a time for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer the donut holes to paper towels to drain excess oil and roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Serve warm and enjoy your Strawberry Donut Holes immediately.