Cheese-Filled Fried Donuts
Cheese-Filled Fried Donuts are an irresistible dessert that combines the luscious comfort of warm donuts with the gooey delight of molten cheese. This recipe is the epitome of indulgence, blending crispy exteriors with a creamy, cheesy center that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re seeking a nostalgic treat or a delightful accompaniment to your morning coffee, these donuts promise comfort and happiness in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Making Cheese-Filled Fried Donuts is incredibly easy, making them the perfect treat for both beginner cooks and seasoned bakers. With just a handful of ingredients, this step-by-step recipe allows you to create delightful, warm donuts that are sure to impress your family and friends. They are crowd-pleasers that can transform any gathering into a festive occasion, and the gooey cheese center is perfect for those who adore cheesy delights. Plus, the minimal prep time ensures that you can whip up a batch in no time, making it an excellent option for last-minute dessert cravings!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of our donuts, creating a soft and fluffy texture.
- 2 tablespoons sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness, balancing the savory cheese.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors, rounding out the taste.
- 1/2 cup warm milk – Invites the yeast to work its magic, making the dough rise beautifully.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – Provides richness and a hint of decadence in every bite.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together, adding moisture to the dough.
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast – Critical for a light and airy donut texture.
- 1 cup mozzarella or cream cheese, cubed – The star of the show, creating that gooey, cheesy center everyone will love.
- 1/2 cup sugar (for coating) – A sweet coating that adds a delightful crunch and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice into the sugar coating.
- Vegetable oil (for frying) – Necessary for achieving that golden, crispy exterior.
These ingredients come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors that will satisfy your sweet tooth and deliver a delightful treat perfect for any day.
Step-by-Step Directions
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. This foundation will give rise to your soft, fluffy donuts.
Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the warm milk, melted butter, and cracked egg. The warmth of the milk is essential in activating the yeast, resulting in a perfect rise.
Knead the Dough: Using your hands, knead the mixture into a smooth dough for about 5-7 minutes. During this process, the dough should become elastic and pliable. Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for the final texture.
Let It Rise: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. This is where the magic happens, as the yeast does its job!
Divide and Flatten: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide it into small portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it with your fingers.
Fill with Cheese: Place a cube of mozzarella or cream cheese in the center of each flattened dough circle. Carefully fold the edges over the cheese and seal it well to prevent it from leaking during frying.
Heat the Oil: In a deep pan or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be hot enough to fry but not so hot that it burns the donuts.
Fry the Donuts: Fry the donuts in batches, ensuring they have enough space to float. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Drain and Coat: Once fried, remove the donuts and drain them on paper towels. In a separate bowl, mix the half cup of sugar with the ground cinnamon. Roll the warm donuts in this mixture until they are fully coated.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Cheese-Filled Fried Donuts immediately for the ultimate experience of gooey cheese and warm, crispy dough.
Tips & Tricks
- Optimal Temperature: Always ensure your oil is at the correct temperature for frying. If it’s too cool, your donuts will absorb more oil; if too hot, they will burn.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or a mix of cheeses, for a unique flavor profile.
- Donut Sizes: Adjust the size of the donuts according to your preference; smaller donuts might require less frying time.
- Perfect Sealing: Ensure you seal the donuts tightly to avoid any cheese leakage during frying.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Cheese-Filled Fried Donuts are best served warm and fresh out of the fryer. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a perfect breakfast or sweet afternoon treat. They can also be enjoyed as a delightful dessert after any meal. For an added twist, serve them with a side of fruit preserves or chocolate sauce for dipping, enhancing the overall experience.
Nutritional Information
These indulgent delights are comfort food that offers a savory balance to your palate. One serving (one donut) approximately contains:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
While it’s important to enjoy these treats in moderation, they can fit into a balanced diet when paired with healthier meals.
Storing Tips & Variations
Storing: Allow the donuts to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best consumed within two days but can last up to a week. You can also freeze them; simply place them in a freezer-safe bag after they have cooled and reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.
Variations: For a twist on this recipe, fill the donuts with flavored cream cheese or even fruit preserves. You can also experiment with glazes or toppings, such as chopped nuts or sprinkles, for added texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Cheese-Filled Fried Donuts are a delightful indulgence that combines the best of both worlds: the warmth of doughy donuts and the gooey pleasure of melted cheese. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for impressing your guests or treating your family to something special. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on this delightful culinary adventure. We can’t wait to hear about your experiences and the smiles these tasty treats bring to your table!
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cream cheese are the traditional choices, feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar or a mix of savory cheeses.
2. How can I make this recipe healthier?
Consider baking the donuts instead of frying them to reduce excess oil. You can also use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and rise the dough the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and frying.
4. How do I know when my oil is hot enough for frying?
A simple method is to drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready for frying.
5. What can I serve with these donuts?
These donuts are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with coffee, hot chocolate, or a fruit dipping sauce, adding extra variety to your treat!
Cheese-Filled Fried Donuts
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour The foundation of our donuts, creating a soft and fluffy texture.
- 2 tablespoons sugar Adds a touch of sweetness, balancing the savory cheese.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances the flavors, rounding out the taste.
- 1/2 cup warm milk Invites the yeast to work its magic, making the dough rise beautifully.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted Provides richness and a hint of decadence in every bite.
- 1 large egg Binds the ingredients together, adding moisture to the dough.
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast Critical for a light and airy donut texture.
Filling and Coating
- 1 cup mozzarella or cream cheese, cubed The star of the show, creating that gooey, cheesy center everyone will love.
- 1/2 cup sugar (for coating) A sweet coating that adds a delightful crunch and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Infuses warmth and spice into the sugar coating.
- Vegetable oil (for frying) Necessary for achieving that golden, crispy exterior.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
- Pour in the warm milk, melted butter, and cracked egg.
- Knead the mixture into a smooth dough for about 5-7 minutes until elastic and pliable.
- Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Forming Donuts
- Punch the risen dough down gently, then divide it into small portions.
- Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it with your fingers.
- Place a cube of cheese in the center of each flattened dough circle, fold and seal well.
Frying
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the donuts in batches, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the donuts and drain them on paper towels.
Coating and Serving
- Mix sugar with ground cinnamon in a bowl and roll the warm donuts in this mixture.
- Serve your Cheese-Filled Fried Donuts immediately for the best experience.