There’s just something about sweet treats that brings a smile to my face! Whether it’s the smell of freshly baked goods wafting through the kitchen or the first bite of something warm and sugary, it always feels like a hug from the inside. That’s why I absolutely adore making Cherry Doughnut Holes at home. They’re these delightful little bites of joy that remind me of summer picnics and family gatherings where cherry desserts were the star of the show.
As someone who’s spent countless hours experimenting in the kitchen, I can tell you firsthand that these doughnut holes are a game changer. They’re fluffy, filled with that luscious cherry goodness, and oh-so-easy to whip up. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about frying them up right in your own home. Trust me, once you taste these, you’ll be hooked! So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this sweet adventure together.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create these irresistible Cherry Doughnut Holes. Don’t worry, it’s all pretty straightforward, and I bet you already have most of these in your kitchen!
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: This is your base ingredient that gives the doughnut holes their fluffy structure.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: This adds that sweet touch we all love in desserts.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: This helps them rise beautifully while frying, making them light and airy.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Just a little boost for extra fluffiness, working together with the baking powder.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the sweet flavors and balances everything out.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: This gives your doughnut holes a lovely moist texture and a subtle tanginess.
- 1 large egg: This acts as a binding agent, helping to hold everything together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For that warm, inviting flavor that complements the cherries perfectly.
- 1 cup cherry pie filling: The star of the show! This gooey, sweet filling is what makes these doughnut holes irresistible.
- Oil for frying: You’ll need enough to fill your pot or fryer about 2-3 inches deep. I recommend using vegetable oil for a neutral flavor.
How to Prepare Cherry Doughnut Holes
Making Cherry Doughnut Holes is a fun and rewarding experience, and I promise it’s easier than you might think! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying warm, fluffy doughnut holes in no time. Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Give it a good whisk to ensure everything is evenly mixed—this is the base of your doughnut holes!
- Next, add the buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry mix. Stir everything together until just combined; don’t overmix! A few lumps are totally okay. We want these to be light and fluffy.
- Now comes the fun part! Fold in the cherry pie filling gently. You want to see those beautiful cherry bits throughout the batter without breaking them up too much. Just a few folds should do the trick!
- While you prepare the batter, heat your oil in a deep fryer or a thick-bottomed pot. Aim for around 350°F (175°C). This is crucial, as the right temperature ensures your doughnut holes cook evenly and become that gorgeous golden brown. Use a thermometer if you have one—trust me, it makes a difference!
- Once the oil is hot and ready, carefully drop small amounts of the batter into the oil. I like to use a tablespoon to keep them uniform, but you can go a bit larger if you prefer doughnut holes on the bigger side. Just don’t crowd the pot; give them space to fry!
- Fry those little beauties for about 3-4 minutes or until they’re golden brown and puffed up. You’ll want to keep an eye on them, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. It’s like magic watching them turn into doughnut holes!
- When they’re done, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. This helps absorb any excess oil, keeping your doughnuts light.
- And finally, serve them warm! You can dust them with powdered sugar if you’d like, but honestly, they’re so delicious on their own. Enjoy every bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the numbers behind these tasty little treats! I always find it helpful to know what I’m munching on, even if it’s just for a bit of fun. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one delightful Cherry Doughnut Hole:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 2g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes. But hey, who’s counting when they’re this delicious? Enjoy them as a special treat, and remember, it’s all about balance and indulging in the things that bring you joy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can whip these up in no time! With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have delicious doughnut holes ready to enjoy.
- Flavorful Delight: The combination of fluffy dough and sweet cherry filling creates a flavor explosion in every bite. It’s a perfect match made in dessert heaven!
- Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a brunch with friends or a family get-together, these doughnut holes are sure to impress and disappear quickly. Everyone loves a bite-sized treat!
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment! You can swap in different fillings or toppings to create your own unique spin on these delicious doughnut holes.
- Made with Love: There’s something so special about making treats at home. The smell, the warm bites, and sharing them with loved ones create unforgettable memories.
Tips for Success
To make sure your Cherry Doughnut Holes turn out perfectly every time, I’ve got a few pro tips that’ll take your frying game to the next level. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference!
- Watch the Oil Temperature: This is key! Use a thermometer to keep the oil around 350°F (175°C). If it’s too cool, your doughnut holes will soak up oil and become greasy. Too hot, and they’ll burn on the outside while staying raw inside. It’s all about finding that sweet spot!
- Don’t Overmix: When you’re combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir just until everything is combined. A few lumps are okay! Overmixing can lead to tougher doughnut holes, and we want them soft and fluffy.
- Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pot! Fry a few at a time to maintain that perfect oil temperature. If you add too many, the temperature will drop, and you won’t get that beautiful golden brown color.
- Use a Slotted Spoon: When removing the doughnut holes from the oil, a slotted spoon is your best friend. It lets excess oil drain off, keeping your treats light and airy.
- Let Them Rest: After frying, let your doughnut holes sit on paper towels for a minute or two. This helps them cool slightly and allows any remaining oil to drip off.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix things up! You can add a splash of almond extract, cinnamon, or even a bit of cocoa powder to the batter for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create the most delicious Cherry Doughnut Holes! Just remember to have fun while making them, and don’t forget to share (or not, I won’t tell!).
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to mix things up a bit with your Cherry Doughnut Holes, I’ve got some fun ideas for you! These variations are super easy to make and can add a whole new twist to your delicious treats. Let’s dive in!
- Peach or Apricot Filling: Swap out the cherry pie filling for some sweet peach or apricot preserves. The fruity flavors will create a delightful summer vibe in every bite!
- Chocolate Chip Doughnut Holes: Fold in some mini chocolate chips instead of fruit filling for a decadent treat. You can even dip them in melted chocolate after frying for an extra indulgent touch!
- Maple Glazed: After frying, give your doughnut holes a drizzle of maple glaze instead of powdered sugar. Just mix powdered sugar with a bit of maple syrup and a splash of milk for a sweet finishing touch.
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating: After frying, toss your warm doughnut holes in a mix of cinnamon and sugar for a classic and comforting flavor that’s always a hit.
- Mixed Berry Filling: Use a combination of different berry fillings—like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries—for a colorful and vibrant treat that packs a fruity punch!
- Lemon Zest and Glaze: Add some lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing twist, and then top with a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for a bright flavor.
With these variations, you can create a whole lineup of Doughnut Holes that suit your taste and the season. Get creative, have fun, and remember: the sky’s the limit when it comes to flavor combinations! Happy frying!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a batch of those delightful Cherry Doughnut Holes and now you’re wondering how to keep them fresh for later. No worries! Storing these little gems is simple, and I’ve got all the tips you need to ensure they stay just as tasty as when they first came out of the fryer.
To store your leftover doughnut holes, let them cool completely at room temperature. Once they’ve cooled, pop them into an airtight container. This keeps them nice and fresh, preventing them from getting stale. They’re best enjoyed within 1-2 days, but trust me, they’re so good they might not last that long!
If you find yourself with some leftover doughnut holes after a gathering (lucky you!), you can also freeze them for later enjoyment. Just arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer until they’re solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to a month. Just remember to label the bag with the date so you know when you made them!
When it’s time to enjoy your frozen doughnut holes, simply take out what you need and let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. If you want to warm them up a bit, you can pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat them! You want them warm and soft, not rubbery.
And if you’re feeling a little indulgent, you can always give them a quick fry again for that fresh-out-of-the-oil taste. Just be sure to heat the oil back up to 350°F (175°C) before tossing them in for a minute or two. It’s like a little doughnut hole revival!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your Cherry Doughnut Holes whenever the craving strikes. Enjoy every bite, whether fresh or reheated—because let’s be real, they’re delicious any way you serve them!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making Cherry Doughnut Holes? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up, along with my answers to help you on your doughnut-making journey.
Can I bake these doughnut holes instead of frying them?
Absolutely! If you prefer a baked version, you can spoon the batter into a greased mini muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes. They won’t have the same crispy exterior, but they’ll still be delicious!
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No problem! You can easily make your own buttermilk by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens slightly, and voila! You’ve got a perfect substitute.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can! Just chop fresh cherries and mix them into the batter. Keep in mind that fresh cherries won’t be as sweet or gooey as pie filling, so you might want to add a little extra sugar to the batter to balance the flavor.
What kind of oil should I use for frying?
I recommend using a neutral oil, like vegetable or canola oil, as they have a high smoke point and won’t alter the flavor of your doughnut holes. Just make sure it’s deep enough to fry the doughnut holes properly!
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
The best way to check is by using a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test it by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, it’s ready!
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
For the best results, it’s best to fry the batter right after mixing. If you let it sit too long, it can lose its lift and result in denser doughnut holes. But you can definitely prep the dry ingredients ahead of time and mix them with wet ingredients when you’re ready to fry!
How should I store leftover doughnut holes?
Let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them and enjoy later—just follow the freezing instructions I shared earlier!
Can I use other fruit fillings?
For sure! You can get creative with different fruit fillings like blueberry, raspberry, or even chocolate chips. Just remember to adjust the sweetness if you’re using fresh fruit!
Hopefully, these FAQs help you feel more confident in making your Cherry Doughnut Holes! Enjoy the process, and remember, it’s all about having fun in the kitchen!
Print
Cherry Doughnut Holes: 7 Sweet Bites of Joy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 doughnut holes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious cherry doughnut holes, perfect for a sweet treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add buttermilk, egg, and vanilla. Stir until combined.
- Fold in cherry pie filling gently.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Drop small amounts of batter into the hot oil.
- Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh cherries for a more natural flavor.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough for proper frying.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 doughnut hole
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Cherry Doughnut Holes, Doughnut Recipe, Cherry Dessert