Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts Recipe

Can a Donut Be Gourmet AND Easy to Make at Home?

Have you ever taken a bite of a bakery donut and thought, “I wish I could make this at home… but without the mess, the stress, or needing a culinary degree?” What if we told you that you can make a dessert that looks fancy, tastes like it came from a high-end bakery, and still only takes about an hour from start to finish?

And what if that dessert combined two of the most beloved treats in the world—creamy cheesecake and fluffy, fruity donuts?

Say hello to Raspberry Donuts—a magical mash-up of soft cake donuts, tangy raspberry filling, and dreamy cheesecake swirls. These aren’t just any donuts. They’re a showstopper treat that’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch, surprising your family, or just treating yourself (hey, we don’t judge), this Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts recipe is about to become your new go-to.

Let’s dive in!

Overview: Why You’ll Love These Raspberry Donuts

These Raspberry Donuts are a sweet, creamy, fruity explosion in every bite. What makes them special?

• Perfect flavor combo: The tartness of fresh raspberries balances the rich, velvety cheesecake filling.
• Easy to make: No fancy equipment needed—just a mixing bowl, a donut pan, and a little love.
• Quick baking time: From mixing to munching in under 60 minutes.
• No deep frying: These are baked donuts, so they’re lighter and healthier than traditional fried ones.
• Kid-friendly: Simple steps mean even young bakers can help (and taste-test!).

Time Required: 50 minutes (15 min prep + 12 min bake + 20 min cooling/filling)
Difficulty Level: Easy (Perfect for beginner bakers!)
Yield: 10–12 donuts

Ready to make magic? Let’s gather what you need.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make these dreamy Raspberry Donuts. Don’t worry—you probably already have most of these in your kitchen!

For the Donut Batter:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but adds warmth!)
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil or melted butter (your choice!)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt in a pinch)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Raspberry Filling:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the jam)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 oz (½ cup) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk (or cream for extra richness)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup freeze-dried raspberries, crushed (for color and flavor!)

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh raspberries
• White chocolate drizzle
• Sprinkles (because fun!)
• Crushed nuts (like almonds or pecans)

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts

Let’s break this down into simple steps. We’ll go slow so you don’t miss a thing. Ready? Grab your apron!

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly grease a donut pan with non-stick spray or butter. If you don’t have a donut pan, no worries! You can use a muffin tin and shape them later—but the pan makes it way easier.

Step 2: Make the Raspberry Filling

We want a thick, jam-like center—no runny mess!

1. In a small saucepan, combine raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently, until the berries break down (about 5 minutes).
3. Mix cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water to make a slurry. Stir it into the berry mix.
4. Keep cooking for 1–2 more minutes until thick. Remove from heat and let cool.
   Tip: Push the mixture through a sieve to remove seeds if you want smooth filling!

Step 3: Whip Up the Donut Batter

This batter is soft, fluffy, and comes together in minutes.

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
2. In another bowl, beat oil, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Slowly pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined.
   Don’t overmix! That makes donuts tough.

Step 4: Bake the Donuts

1. Spoon the batter into a ziplock bag or piping bag. Snip the corner and pipe into the donut pan, filling each mold about ¾ full.
2. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
3. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
   Cooling is key! Warm donuts will melt the fillings.

Step 5: Make the Cheesecake Filling

This is the creamy heart of your donut.

1. Beat cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Mix until fluffy and spreadable.
3. Transfer to a piping bag or ziplock bag. Set aside.

Step 6: Fill the Donuts

Time for the fun part!

1. Once donuts are cool, use a small knife or apple corer to cut a hole in the side of each donut (about halfway in).
2. Fill a piping bag with the raspberry jam, then another with the cheesecake filling.
3. Pipe a little raspberry jam first, then top it off with cheesecake.
   Alternate layers for extra flavor! Or go all cheesecake if you’re a fan.

Assembly: How to Build & Present Your Raspberry Donuts

Now for the final touch—making them look as good as they taste!

Step 1: Glaze the Tops

1. Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
2. Dip the top of each donut into the glaze. Let excess drip off.
3. Immediately sprinkle with crushed freeze-dried raspberries for a pop of color and tartness.

Step 2: Add Toppings (Get Creative!)

• Place a fresh raspberry on top.
• Drizzle with melted white chocolate.
• Add sprinkles for a fun twist.
• Dust with extra powdered sugar for a snowy look.

Presentation Tips:

• Arrange donuts on a wooden board or cake stand.
• Use parchment paper or cupcake liners for a neat look.
• Serve with coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk.

✨ Pro Tip: Take a photo before anyone digs in—these are Instagram gold!

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. Red Velvet Cookies and Cream Easy
. Strawberry Cupcakes With Straweberry Buttercream

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Want to make these ahead of time? Great idea! Here’s how to keep them fresh.

Storing Your Raspberry Donuts:

• Room Temperature (Best for 1–2 days): Keep in an airtight container with parchment between layers. They’ll stay soft and fresh!
• Refrigerator (Up to 5 days): If filled, refrigerate to keep the cream cheese safe. Let sit at room temp for 10 minutes before eating.
• Freezing (Up to 2 months): Freeze unfilled donuts on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw and fill when ready.

Make-Ahead Hacks:

• Make the raspberry jam up to 5 days in advance.
• Prepare the cheesecake filling 2 days ahead—store in a sealed container.
• Bake donuts a day early and fill the morning of serving.

Want fresh-baked taste later? Bake, cool, freeze, then reheat at 300°F for 5 minutes before filling.

Recipe Variations: Make It Your Own!

One of the best things about these Raspberry Donuts is how easy they are to customize. Try these fun twists:

Fruit Swaps:

• Use strawberry jam instead of raspberry.
• Try blueberry compote or mango puree for a tropical vibe.

Cheesecake Variations:

• Add a drop of almond extract to the filling for depth.
• Mix in crushed graham crackers for a pie-like crunch.

Donut Style Ideas:

• Gluten-Free: Swap flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
• Vegan: Use flax eggs, plant-based milk, and vegan cream cheese.
• Mini Donut Bites: Use a mini donut pan—perfect for parties!

Chocolate Lovers’ Version:

• Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the batter.
• Dip in chocolate glaze instead of vanilla.

Healthier Options:

• Use coconut oil instead of butter.
• Reduce sugar by 25%—the raspberries add natural sweetness!
• Fill with Greek yogurt and honey instead of cream cheese for a lighter treat.

Conclusion: Bake, Share, and Enjoy!

Who knew that Raspberry Donuts could be this easy, this delicious, and this fun to make?

You don’t need a fancy bakery or hours of free time to create a dessert that feels special. With just a few simple ingredients and a little love, you’ve got a treat that wows everyone—whether it’s for a holiday, a Sunday morning, or just because you deserve something sweet.

So go ahead. Whip up a batch. Invite the kids to help. Share them with neighbors. Post a pic and tag a friend who needs a sugar boost.

And remember: baking isn’t about perfection. It’s about joy, flavor, and making memories—one delicious donut at a time.

Now, what are you waiting for? Your Raspberry Cheesecake Donuts are calling your name.

FAQs: Your Questions, Answered

Here are answers to the most common questions about making Raspberry Donuts at home.

1. Can I make these without a donut pan?

Yes! Use a muffin tin and shape the baked donuts with a small cookie cutter. Or bake as mini muffins and fill them the same way.

2. Are these donuts healthy?

They’re a treat—but you can make them healthier! Use whole wheat flour, less sugar, or Greek yogurt filling. Raspberries are full of antioxidants and fiber, so you’re getting some good stuff too.

3. Why did my donuts come out dry?

Overbaking or overmixing the batter are the usual culprits. Stick to 10–12 minutes and mix just until combined.

4. Can I use store-bought jam?

Absolutely! Just warm it slightly so it’s easier to pipe. Look for low-sugar or seedless raspberry jam for best results.

5. How do I prevent the filling from leaking?

Don’t overfill! Pipe just enough to fill the center. Also, make sure your raspberry jam is thick—simmer it longer if needed.

6. Can I make these ahead for a party?

Yes! Bake the donuts 1 day ahead. Fill and glaze the morning of the party for maximum freshness.

7. Are these safe for kids to eat?

Yes! Just use pasteurized eggs and cream cheese. Let little ones help with glazing and decorating—it’s the most fun part.

8. Can I freeze the filled donuts?

We recommend freezing unfilled donuts. Filled ones may get soggy when thawed due to the dairy.

9. What’s the best way to reheat them?

Warm unfilled donuts at 300°F for 5 minutes. For filled ones, let them sit at room temperature—no reheating needed!

10. Can I make a dairy-free version?

Yes! Use dairy-free butter, milk, and cream cheese. Many plant-based options work great in this recipe.

Now that you’ve got all the tips, tricks, and answers, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and bake some Raspberry Donuts. They’re not just a dessert—they’re a little moment of happiness, one bite at a time.

Happy baking! 🍓🍩

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