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cheese donuts

cheese donuts

Cheese Donuts are the ultimate savory twist on a classic favorite. By combining the light, airy texture of traditional donuts with the rich, creamy taste of cheese, these treats are even more delicious than you might expect. Perfect for a snack or an indulgent breakfast, Cheese Donuts are a must-try for anyone who loves bold and creative flavors.
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Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings: 12 donuts
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough
  • 240 ml fresh milk
  • 1 large egg (approximately 50 grams)
  • 38 grams granulated sugar
  • 6 grams instant yeast
  • 384 grams all-purpose flour
  • 3 grams salt
  • 60 grams unsalted butter, softened
Cheese Filling
  • 240 ml fresh milk
  • 8 grams cornstarch
  • 235 grams easy-melt cheese

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Dough: Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh milk, egg, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
  2. Add the instant yeast and let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy.
Form the Dough:
  1. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
  2. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
  3. Knead in the softened butter until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Proof the Dough:
  1. Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
 Prepare the Cheese Filling
  1. Make the Filling: In a saucepan, combine the fresh milk and cornstarch. Stir until the cornstarch is dissolved.
  2. Add the easy-melt cheese and heat the mixture over low heat, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
  3. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  4. Shape and Fill the Donuts: Divide the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal portions (about 50 grams each).
  5. Fill the Donuts: Flatten each portion of dough and place a spoonful of cheese filling in the center.
  6. Pinch the edges together to seal the filling inside and shape into a ball.
  7. Fry the Donuts Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat vegetable oil to 180°C (350°F).
  8. Carefully place the donuts into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  9. Remove the donuts from the oil and drain on paper towels.
  10.  Serve: Serve the cheese donuts warm, and enjoy their gooey cheese center!

Notes

Variations

  1. Cheddar and Jalapeño Donuts:
    • Incorporate sharp cheddar cheese and finely chopped jalapeños into the dough for a spicy kick. This combination offers a nice balance of heat and creamy cheese.
  2. Potato Cheese Donuts:
    • Use mashed potatoes as a base and fill the donuts with mozzarella cheese. Coat them in panko bread crumbs for a crispy exterior.
  3. Gouda, Chive, and Black Pepper Donuts:
    • Add grated gouda cheese, chopped chives, and freshly ground black pepper to the batter for a savory flavor. These mini donuts are perfect for parties and can be served with sriracha or sriracha mayo for a spicy dip.
  4. Hungarian Cottage Cheese Donuts (Túrófánk):
    • Use cottage cheese or farmer's cheese in the dough for a unique texture. Add lemon zest for extra flavor and serve with powdered sugar and jam.
  5. Crispy Quinoa and Cheddar Donuts:
    • Combine cooked quinoa with cheddar cheese and bake in a mini donut pan for a healthier, crispy snack. These are great for an after-school treat and can be made with different cheeses like parmesan.