Cherry Doughnut Holes: 7 Blissful Bites of Joy

Name: Cherry Doughnut Holes: 7 Blissful Bites of Joy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup cherry pie filling; Powdered sugar for dusting

July 18, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the joy of making cherry doughnut holes! These little bites are soft, fluffy, and bursting with cherry goodness. Every time I whip up a batch, it takes me back to those delightful family gatherings where everyone gathers around, eagerly waiting for the first taste. Trust me, the excitement in the air is palpable! These cherry doughnut holes have quickly become a favorite in my household, and I just know they’ll be a hit in yours too. The sweet aroma wafting through the kitchen is pure bliss, and you won’t believe how easy they are to make. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!

cherry doughnut holes - detail 1

Ingredients for Cherry Doughnut Holes

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delightful cherry doughnut holes. Gather these ingredients and get ready for some serious baking fun!

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup cherry pie filling
Powdered sugar for dusting

(Tip: Make sure your butter is melted but not too hot, or it might cook the eggs when you mix everything together!)

How to Prepare Cherry Doughnut Holes

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s jump into the fun part—making these cherry doughnut holes! I’ll guide you through each step, so you’ll feel like a pro in no time. Let’s get baking!

Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your doughnut holes bake evenly and come out fluffy and golden. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!

Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. I like to use a whisk for this part—just a few good turns will do! Mixing the dry ingredients thoroughly helps to evenly distribute the baking powder, which is key for that fluffy texture we’re aiming for.

Combining Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined—this is where the magic starts to happen! The melted butter should be warm, but not hot, or it’ll scramble the eggs. Oops!

Merging Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now it’s time to combine the two mixtures! Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold them together. Be careful not to over-mix; we want a light and fluffy dough, not a tough one. A few lumps are totally okay!

Adding Cherry Filling

Here comes the best part—folding in the cherry pie filling! Take your time with this step. Gently incorporate the cherries into the batter so you don’t break them apart. You want those beautiful bits of cherry to shine through in every doughnut hole!

Baking the Doughnut Holes

Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the batter onto a lined baking sheet. Leave a little space between each one so they can puff up nicely. Bake these little gems in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell in your kitchen will be heavenly!

Cooling and Dusting

Once they’re out of the oven, let the doughnut holes cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set perfectly! After they’ve cooled down a bit, it’s time to dust them with powdered sugar for that sweet finishing touch. Just a light sprinkle will do—like a little snowfall of sweetness!

Tips for Success with Cherry Doughnut Holes

To make sure your cherry doughnut holes turn out absolutely perfect, I’ve got some pro tips that I swear by! These little nuggets of wisdom can help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your baking game.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder and ingredients. Old baking powder can lead to flat doughnut holes, and we want them fluffy and delightful!
Don’t Overmix: Remember, gentle folding is key! Overmixing can cause your dough to be dense instead of light and airy, so take it easy when combining the wet and dry ingredients.
Temperature Matters: Make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature. This helps them blend better into the batter, creating a smoother texture. Trust me, it makes a difference!
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time! Ovens can vary, so start checking the doughnut holes around the 15-minute mark. They’re done when they’re golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean!
Cooling is Crucial: Allowing the doughnut holes to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack is essential. It helps them firm up and maintain their shape!
Experiment with Flavors: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of almond extract or even a little bit of lemon zest to the batter for a fun twist. It’s a great way to customize the flavor!

With these tips in your baking arsenal, you’re all set to create the most amazing cherry doughnut holes ever! Happy baking!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each delightful cherry doughnut hole. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and ingredients used. But it’s always good to know what you’re enjoying!

Serving Size: 1 doughnut hole
Calories: 90
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 50mg
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 1g

With these cherry doughnut holes, you’re treating yourself to a sweet indulgence that’s totally worth it. Enjoy every fluffy bite, and share the love with friends and family!

FAQ About Cherry Doughnut Holes

If you’re curious about making cherry doughnut holes, you’re not alone! Here are some common questions I’ve come across, along with my best answers to help you navigate your baking adventure with ease.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be a delightful addition. Just pit and chop them before folding them into the batter. You might want to reduce the sugar slightly since fresh cherries can be a bit less sweet than pie filling.

How do I know when my doughnut holes are done baking?

Great question! They’re done when they’re golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them starting at the 15-minute mark, as oven temperatures can vary.

Can I make the doughnut holes ahead of time?

Yes, you can! You can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the fridge for a couple of hours before baking. Just give it a good stir before scooping it onto the baking sheet. If you bake them ahead, let them cool and store them in an airtight container for a day or two.

What’s the best way to store leftover cherry doughnut holes?

To keep them fresh, store your cherry doughnut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, pop them in the fridge, but they’re best enjoyed fresh, so try to eat them quickly!

Can I freeze the doughnut holes?

You sure can! Once they’re completely cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for about a month. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

With these answers in your back pocket, you’re all set to tackle any questions that come up while making these delightful cherry doughnut holes. Happy baking!

Variations of Cherry Doughnut Holes

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up a bit, I’ve got some fabulous variations for these cherry doughnut holes that’ll keep your taste buds dancing! Each twist is easy to make and adds a fun new flavor profile to this classic treat. Let’s dive into some delicious alternatives!

Berry Medley: Swap out the cherry pie filling for a mix of blueberries and raspberries. The tartness of the berries adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness and creates a vibrant, colorful treat!
Peach Perfection: Use peach pie filling instead of cherries. The juicy, sweet peaches will give your doughnut holes a lovely summer vibe that’s perfect for warm days.
Chocolate Cherry: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter alongside the cherry pie filling. The chocolate melts into gooey pockets of goodness that perfectly complement the cherries!
Coconut Delight: Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical twist. You can even top the finished doughnut holes with a coconut glaze for an extra layer of flavor!
Lemon Zest: For a refreshing change, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter. The citrusy aroma and flavor will elevate your doughnut holes and make them irresistibly bright!
Spiced Apple: Replace the cherry filling with apple pie filling and sprinkle in some cinnamon. It’s like a cozy fall treat that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

These variations are a wonderful way to get creative in the kitchen and tailor your cherry doughnut holes to your personal taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment—who knows what delightful combinations you’ll come up with! Happy baking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve made these scrumptious cherry doughnut holes, you might be wondering how to store any leftovers (if there are any!). I’ve got you covered with some simple tips to keep them fresh and tasty!

To store your cherry doughnut holes, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can pop them in the fridge, but I recommend enjoying them fresh for the best taste and texture!

If you find yourself with a batch that you can’t finish, go ahead and freeze them! Just make sure they’re completely cooled first. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about an hour, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for about a month. Just make sure to label the bag with the date so you don’t forget about your sweet stash!

When you’re ready to enjoy those frozen doughnut holes, simply take out the desired amount and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you want to warm them up a bit, you can pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will help restore that soft, fluffy texture we all love!

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor every last bite of your cherry doughnut holes, whether fresh out of the oven or as a delightful treat later on. Enjoy every delicious moment!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.