There’s a certain kind of joy that comes from the first bite of a freshly made cherry doughnut hole—warm, soft, and bursting with sweet-tart cherry goodness. I still remember the delight on my friends’ faces when I surprised them with these little bites of bliss at a weekend brunch. Just the thought of crispy, golden doughnut holes dusted with powdered sugar evokes memories of laughter, shared stories, and the comfort of good homemade food.
When I found myself craving a nostalgic treat that could easily replace fast food and bring a touch of warmth to my kitchen, cherry doughnut holes were the answer. With just a handful of pantry staples and a quick fry, these doughnut holes come together in under 35 minutes, making them perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy family breakfast or a delightful dessert for guests. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s capture that sweet moment of happiness in every bite!
Why You'll Love This Cherry Doughnut Holes
- These Cherry Doughnut Holes are incredibly easy to whip up, making them an ideal treat for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
- Packed with the delightful flavor of cherry pie filling, each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness that will leave you wanting more.
- Their versatile nature allows for endless variations; you can easily swap cherries for your favorite fruit or add a unique twist with different spices.
- Visually, they are irresistible when dusted with powdered sugar, making them a stunning centerpiece for any brunch or dessert table.
Cherry Doughnut Holes Ingredients
For the Doughnut Holes
- All-purpose flour – a versatile base that gives your doughnut holes structure.
- Granulated sugar – adds sweetness and promotes browning for a beautiful golden color.
- Baking powder – ensures the doughnut holes rise and become light and fluffy.
- Baking soda – works with the baking powder to enhance the leavening process.
- Salt – balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Buttermilk – creates a tender crumb while adding a slight tang; you can substitute with milk and a splash of vinegar.
- Large egg – binds the ingredients together, providing richness to the doughnut holes.
- Vanilla extract – infused with warmth and sweetness that complements the cherry flavor.
- Cherry pie filling – the star of the show that infuses each bite with delightful fruitiness and ensures you enjoy the essence of cherry doughnut holes.
- Oil for frying – use a high smoke point oil like vegetable or canola oil for the best frying results.
Get ready to dive into these delicious cherry doughnut holes that will surely bring joy to your table!
How to Make Cherry Doughnut Holes
-
Mix dry ingredients. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This will form the base of your doughnut holes, so whisk well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
-
Combine wet ingredients. Add in the buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract to your dry mixture. Stir gently until everything comes together, but don’t overmix; a little lumpiness is perfectly fine!
-
Fold in cherries. Gently fold in the cherry pie filling. This step adds that delightful burst of cherry flavor, so take your time so the cherries are evenly distributed without breaking apart.
-
Heat oil. In a deep fryer or large pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). You’ll want enough oil to submerge the doughnut holes completely for even cooking.
-
Drop batter. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, carefully drop small amounts of batter into the hot oil. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot, allowing for even frying.
-
Fry until golden. Fry the doughnut holes for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as they can cook quickly!
-
Remove and drain. Use a slotted spoon to remove the doughnut holes from the oil. Let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
-
Serve warm. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an added touch of sweetness. Enjoy them warm for the best experience!
Optional: Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a delightful twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cherry Doughnut Holes Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delicious treats, adapting flavors and ingredients to suit your taste!
-
Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a delightful gluten-free option.
-
Fruity Swaps: Substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry or peach filling for a fresh twist on flavor. Each fruit brings its unique sweetness!
-
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in mini chocolate chips for a rich, chocolatey surprise in every bite, creating a decadent sweetness that balances wonderfully with cherries.
-
Cinnamon Sugar Coating: After frying, roll the doughnut holes in a mix of cinnamon and sugar for an extra layer of warmth and sweetness that’s simply irresistible.
-
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your batter for a spicy surprise that contrasts beautifully with the sweet cherry!
-
Coconut Coating: After frying, toss the doughnut holes in shredded coconut for a tropical vibe that elevates every bite into a paradise of flavors.
-
Lemon Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into the batter for a hint of citrus brightness, enhancing the sweet-tart cherry notes beautifully.
-
Vegan Option: Swap buttermilk for almond milk mixed with vinegar and use a flaxseed egg to create a delicious vegan-friendly version of these lovely doughnut holes.
Discover the joy of customizing your cherry doughnut holes to create a unique experience!
What to Serve with Cherry Doughnut Holes?
Delight in a blissful brunch experience when you explore the perfect pairings for these warm, cherry-filled treats.
- Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries brings a burst of freshness that balances the sweetness of the doughnut holes.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream offers a creamy contrast that enhances each bite, making dessert time feel indulgent.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm cherry doughnut holes alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a nostalgic twist that’s simply irresistible.
- Coffee or Espresso: A steaming cup of coffee or a rich espresso cuts through the sweetness, making for a perfect morning or afternoon treat.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the doughnut holes for a decadent touch that adds both richness and excitement to each bite.
- Almond Milk: For a lighter option, chilled almond milk refreshes the palate while complementing the fruity flavors in the doughnut holes.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Dust a bit of cinnamon sugar on top for an aromatic flair that enhances the sweetness and adds a warm spiced note.
Discover the joy of pairing these cherry doughnut holes with delightful accompaniments that will tantalize your taste buds!
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Doughnut Holes are absolutely perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy mornings! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the dry ingredients and wet ingredients, then refrigerating the combined mixture in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful treats, simply fold in the cherry pie filling, heat the oil, and fry them fresh for that warm, golden delicacy. To maintain their fluffy texture, avoid overcrowding the pot while frying, and serve them immediately after frying for the best results. This way, you can savor the homemade goodness without the last-minute rush!
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Doughnut Holes
Room Temperature: Store leftover cherry doughnut holes in an airtight container for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh, but you can still savor them slightly warm!
Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the cherry doughnut holes for up to 5 days. Just be aware they may lose some of their original fluffiness.
Freezer: Freeze cherry doughnut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat them in a preheated oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Reheating: To restore warmth, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave. For microwave, warm them on medium power for about 15-20 seconds at a time until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your cherry doughnut holes are light and fluffy, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the wet ingredients; a few lumps are okay.
- When folding in the cherry pie filling, do so gently to prevent breaking the cherries and to maintain the vibrant taste in each bite.
- Frying at the correct temperature of 350°F (175°C) is crucial; too low will result in greasy doughnuts, while too high can burn them quickly.
- Allow the doughnut holes to drain on paper towels right after frying to remove excess oil for a lighter finish.
Cherry Doughnut Holes Recipe FAQs
How can I tell if my cherries are ripe enough for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing cherries for your cherry doughnut holes, look for ones that are firm and have a deep, vibrant color without dark spots all over. Ripe cherries should have a slight glossiness and be sweet to the taste, which ensures they’ll add the perfect flavor to your doughnut holes.
What’s the best way to store leftover cherry doughnut holes?
Very! To store leftover cherry doughnut holes at room temperature, keep them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For cooler storage, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 5 days; just keep in mind that they might lose some of their original fluffiness over time.
Can I freeze cherry doughnut holes for later?
Yes, you can! To freeze your cherry doughnut holes, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, allowing them to freeze solid for a couple of hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they’re sealed tightly. They can stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen cherry doughnut holes?
Certainly! To reheat your frozen cherry doughnut holes, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place them on a baking sheet and warm them for about 10 minutes until they are heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them, warming on medium power for 15-20 seconds at a time until just warm.
Why are my doughnut holes greasy after frying?
If your cherry doughnut holes are turning out greasy, the frying oil may not be hot enough. It’s crucial to maintain a temperature of 350°F (175°C) while frying. Invest in a thermometer to check the oil’s temperature, ensuring that when you drop your batter into the oil, it sizzles immediately—and avoid overcrowding the pot, which can also lower the temperature quickly.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for this recipe?
Great question! If you have dietary restrictions, try substituting buttermilk with a dairy-free milk and a splash of vinegar for a vegan version. Ensure that the cherry pie filling you use is marked as gluten-free if you need to avoid gluten, and check for any added allergens like nuts or specific sweeteners if allergies are a concern.
Equipment
- Deep fryer or large pot
Ingredients
Doughnut Holes
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons Baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 3/4 cup Buttermilk or milk + vinegar
- 1 large Large egg
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1 can Cherry pie filling
- for frying as needed Oil high smoke point oil like vegetable or canola
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk well.
- Add buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined.
- Gently fold in the cherry pie filling, being careful not to break the cherries.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, carefully drop small amounts of batter into the hot oil.
- Fry the doughnut holes for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the doughnut holes and let them drain on paper towels.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving and enjoy warm.
