Heavenly Cherry Doughnut Holes Recipe: Sweet Morning Bliss

Sweet little cherry doughnut holes might just become your new obsession.

Biting into a pillowy, golden-brown morsel bursting with fruity flavor.

Bright red cherries nestled inside soft dough create a delightful surprise with each nibble.

Weekend baking adventures call for something playful and unexpected like these treats.

Small enough to pop in your mouth, these doughnut holes deliver pure joy in every single bite.

The combination of tart cherries and sugary coating promises a mouthwatering experience you won’t forget.

Grab an apron and let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen.

FAQ About Cherry Doughnut Holes

• What makes these cherry doughnut holes special?

These doughnut holes are unique because they combine fresh cherries directly into the dough, creating bursts of fruity flavor in every bite. The almond or vanilla glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the cherries perfectly.

• Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but make sure to thaw and drain them completely before chopping and adding to the dough. Pat them dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from affecting the dough’s texture.

• How do I know when the doughnut holes are cooked properly?

The doughnut holes are done when they turn a deep golden brown color and float to the surface of the oil. They should take about 2-3 minutes to cook, and turning them occasionally helps ensure even browning.

• What if I don't have a deep fryer or candy thermometer?

You can use a deep saucepan and a wooden spoon to test the oil temperature. Drop a small piece of bread into the oil – if it sizzles and turns golden brown within 30-60 seconds, the oil is at the right temperature for frying.

Why Cherry Doughnut Holes Are A Fun Snack

• Burst with Fruity Freshness: These cherry doughnut holes pack a delightful punch of sweet-tart cherry flavor in every bite, creating a vibrant and exciting treat that stands out from traditional plain doughnuts.
• Quick and Easy Homemade Delight: Perfect for amateur bakers, this recipe requires simple ingredients and basic cooking skills, allowing you to whip up delicious doughnut holes in under 30 minutes with minimal fuss.
• Crispy Outside, Soft Inside Sensation: The frying technique creates a golden, crunchy exterior that gives way to a tender, pillowy interior studded with juicy cherry pieces, delivering an irresistible textural contrast.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or party snacks, these doughnut holes appeal to both kids and adults, making them a crowd-pleasing option for various occasions and gatherings.

Everything In Cherry Doughnut Holes

• Flour: Provides structure and base for the doughnut holes.
• Baking Powder: Helps the dough rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.

• Egg: Binds ingredients and adds richness.
• Milk: Provides moisture and helps create tender texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor and aromatic quality.
• Melted Butter: Contributes richness and smooth texture.

• Vegetable Oil: Used for deep frying the doughnut holes.
• Chopped Cherries: Adds fruity flavor and texture to the dough.
• Powdered Sugar: Creates smooth, sweet glaze.
• Almond or Vanilla Extract: Enhances glaze flavor.
• Extra Chopped Cherries, Sprinkles: Optional garnish for decoration.

Steps To Make Cherry Doughnut Holes

Step 1: Warm Up The Oil

Pour vegetable oil into a deep saucepan, filling about two inches high. Heat the oil until it reaches a sizzling 350°F. Use a cooking thermometer to check the precise temperature for perfect frying.

Step 2: Create Dough Magic

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Granulated sugar

• Fresh egg
• Whole milk
• Vanilla extract
• Melted butter

Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir gently. Softly fold in freshly chopped cherries, keeping the mixture light and airy.

Step 3: Dive Into Frying

Use a small cookie scoop to drop dough balls into hot oil. Work in small batches to maintain oil temperature. Rotate doughnut holes every minute to ensure even golden-brown coloring. Fry for approximately 2-3 minutes until they look perfectly crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to absorb extra oil.

Step 4: Whip Up Glossy Glaze

• Powdered sugar
• Milk
• Almond or vanilla extract

Whisk until the mixture becomes silky smooth and free of lumps.

Step 5: Coat With Sweet Goodness

While doughnut holes are still warm, dunk each one into the glaze. Twirl them around to ensure complete coverage. Place on a wire rack, allowing excess glaze to drip elegantly.

Step 6: Serve And Celebrate

Let glaze set for a few minutes. Sprinkle with additional chopped cherries or colorful sprinkles if desired. Serve immediately and watch everyone’s eyes light up with joy.

Tips That Help With Cherry Doughnut Holes

• Prevent Oil Splatter: Carefully drop dough into hot oil using a long-handled spoon to protect yourself from potential hot oil splashes.
• Maintain Consistent Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep oil at 350F, ensuring even cooking and preventing greasy or undercooked doughnut holes.
• Customize Flavor Variations: Swap cherries with blueberries, raspberries, or chocolate chips for different taste experiences.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Replace wheat flour with a gluten-free blend to make these doughnut holes suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare dough in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, allowing flavors to develop and saving preparation time.

How To Store And Reheat Cherry Doughnut Holes

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cherry doughnut holes in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Keep them refrigerated for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual doughnut holes in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for maximum 2 weeks to maintain their delicious texture and flavor.
• Reheating (Oven): Preheat oven to 300F. Spread doughnut holes on a baking sheet and warm for 5-7 minutes until heated through. This method helps restore their original crispy exterior.
• Reheating (Microwave): Warm doughnut holes in 10-second intervals to prevent them from becoming tough or rubbery. Best used when you want a quick, warm treat.

Pairings That Work With Cherry Doughnut Holes

• Pair with Creamy Champagne Cocktail: Complement the sweet cherry doughnut holes with a light, bubbly champagne cocktail mixed with a splash of cherry liqueur. The effervescence cuts through the richness of the fried dough, creating a delightful taste experience.
• Match with Cold Vanilla Bean Latte: The smooth, creamy vanilla notes in the latte beautifully enhance the cherry flavor. Its cool temperature provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, freshly fried doughnut holes.
• Create a Dessert Plate with Fresh Berries: Arrange a selection of fresh raspberries, strawberries, and additional cherries around the doughnut holes. The natural tartness of the berries balances the sweet glaze and adds a vibrant, fresh element to the dessert.
• Serve with Almond Cream Liqueur: The nutty, smooth almond liqueur echoes the almond extract in the glaze, creating a harmonious flavor profile that elevates the cherry doughnut holes to a more sophisticated dessert experience.

Twists On Cherry Doughnut Holes To Try

• Cherry Chocolate Fusion: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cherry doughnut holes and sprinkle with cocoa nibs for a rich, decadent flavor profile.
• Nutty Cherry Crunch: Roll the glazed doughnut holes in chopped toasted almonds or pistachios for added texture and nutty warmth.
• Spiced Cherry Sensation: Mix ground cinnamon and cardamom into the glaze, creating a warm, aromatic coating that complements the sweet cherry flavor.
• Citrus Cherry Burst: Add orange zest to the dough and mix a touch of lemon extract into the glaze for a bright, tangy undertone that enhances the cherry sweetness.

Cherry Doughnut Holes Recipe

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4.6 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Sweet homemade cherry doughnut holes bring delightful bakery magic straight to kitchen counters. Crisp exterior, tender interior, and luscious cherry glaze promise delectable moments with each delicious bite you’ll savor.

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Ingredients

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Main Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ⅓ cup (65 g) granulated sugar

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup (180 ml) milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup (100 g) chopped maraschino cherries or cherry pie filling

Frying and Topping:

• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon almond or vanilla extract (optional)
• Extra chopped cherries or sprinkles (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare a deep saucepan or fryer by heating vegetable oil to precisely 350F (175C), ensuring a consistent temperature for even frying.
2. Craft the dough foundation by combining dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl, whisking flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until uniformly blended.
3. Create a separate mixture of wet components, whisking egg, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth and well-incorporated.
4. Gently merge wet and dry ingredients, stirring minimally to prevent overmixing, then carefully fold in freshly chopped cherries to distribute evenly throughout the dough.
5. Utilize a small cookie scoop to portion uniform dough balls, meticulously dropping them into the hot oil in small batches to maintain optimal cooking temperature.
6. Rotate doughnut holes periodically during frying, monitoring their color transformation until they achieve a rich, golden-brown exterior, approximately 2-3 minutes.
7. Extract doughnut holes using a slotted spoon, transferring them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil and cool slightly.
8. Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and almond or vanilla extract in a shallow bowl, creating a silky, glossy glaze with a smooth consistency.
9. While doughnut holes remain warm, delicately immerse each piece in the glaze, ensuring complete coverage and allowing excess to drip away.
10. Position glazed doughnut holes on a wire rack, permitting the coating to set and slightly harden, enhancing their visual appeal and texture.
11. Optional: Embellish with additional chopped cherries or festive sprinkles for a decorative finishing touch before serving.

Notes

• Choose a neutral-flavored oil like canola or vegetable for consistent and clean frying without overwhelming the cherry flavor.
• Work quickly when dropping dough into hot oil to maintain consistent temperature and prevent uneven cooking.
• Check oil temperature regularly with a thermometer to ensure perfect golden-brown doughnut holes without burning or undercooking.
• Keep doughnut holes uniform in size by using a small cookie scoop for consistent cooking times and appearance.
• Drain excess oil thoroughly on paper towels to prevent greasy texture and maintain crispy exterior.
• Experiment with different extracts like almond or vanilla in the glaze for subtle flavor variations.
• Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar instead of glaze for a lighter, less sweet finishing touch.
• Use fresh or frozen cherries depending on seasonal availability, ensuring they’re finely chopped for even distribution.
• Let doughnut holes cool slightly before glazing to prevent glaze from sliding off completely.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 130 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg