There’s something magical about biting into a warm, freshly made cherry doughnut hole that takes me right back to childhood. The pillowy texture giving way to bursts of sweet-tart cherry flavor has always been my weakness. These homemade Cherry Doughnut Holes are everything you love about those bakery treats, but with the satisfaction of making them yourself. The combination of that golden, slightly crisp exterior and the tender, cherry-studded interior creates a perfect bite-sized treat that disappears from plates faster than I can make them! Keep reading to discover my secret technique for achieving that perfect doughnut hole texture without the hassle of deep frying.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Doughnut Holes Recipe
Have you ever tried making doughnuts at home only to end up with a kitchen covered in oil and doughnuts that are either too dense or still raw in the middle? These Cherry Doughnut Holes solve all those common doughnut-making challenges.
Last summer, I brought these to my family reunion, and even my aunt Margaret—who famously claims nothing matches her local bakery’s doughnuts—asked for the recipe. That’s when I knew these Cherry Doughnut Holes were something special.
What makes this recipe truly exceptional is its versatility. You can easily switch up the cherry filling for other fruits, or add different glazes and toppings to suit any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, these Cherry Doughnut Holes are guaranteed to impress.
Now, let’s dive into exactly what you’ll need to make these irresistible treats.
Ingredients for Perfect Cherry Doughnut Holes
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of our Cherry Doughnut Holes, providing structure while keeping them tender. For a lighter texture, you can substitute up to 1/2 cup with cake flour.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough perfectly without overpowering the cherry flavor. You can reduce to 1/3 cup if you prefer less sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder – Essential for giving our Cherry Doughnut Holes their characteristic rise and fluffy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Adds a warm spice note that complements the cherries beautifully. Nutmeg is a good alternative.
- 3/4 cup buttermilk – Creates tenderness in our Cherry Doughnut Holes. No buttermilk? Mix 3/4 cup milk with 2 teaspoons of lemon juice and let sit for 5 minutes.
- 2 large eggs – Provides richness and helps bind everything together. For a vegan option, try 2 flax eggs instead.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and flavor. Coconut oil works well as a dairy-free alternative.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances all the flavors in our Cherry Doughnut Holes. Almond extract is a delicious alternative that pairs wonderfully with cherries.
For the Cherry Filling:
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped – The star of our Cherry Doughnut Holes! When not in season, you can use frozen cherries (thawed and drained) or high-quality cherry preserves.
- 2 tablespoons cherry preserves – Intensifies the cherry flavor and adds moisture. Raspberry preserves can be substituted in a pinch.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Helps thicken the cherry mixture so it doesn’t make the Cherry Doughnut Holes soggy.
- 2 tablespoons sugar – Balances any tartness in the cherries. Adjust based on the sweetness of your cherries.
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest – Brightens the cherry flavor. Orange zest works beautifully too.
For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Creates that classic sweet exterior on our Cherry Doughnut Holes.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Pairs perfectly with the sugar coating and cherry filling.
- Optional: 1/4 cup powdered sugar for dusting – For an extra-special presentation.
How to Make Cherry Doughnut Holes
Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Filling
- In a small saucepan, combine the chopped cherries, cherry preserves, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon zest.
- Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon and holds a line when you run your finger through it.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely. This filling can be made up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container.
Step 2: Make the Doughnut Hole Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a rubber spatula just until no dry spots remain. The batter for our Cherry Doughnut Holes should be slightly thick but still spoonable. Over-mixing will lead to tough doughnut holes, so mix with a light hand until just combined.
Step 3: Form and Cook the Doughnut Holes
- Heat about 2-3 inches of oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature – this is crucial for perfect Cherry Doughnut Holes!
- Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop about 1 tablespoon of batter into the oil. Immediately add about 1/2 teaspoon of cherry filling on top, then cover with another tablespoon of batter.
- Cook 4-5 Cherry Doughnut Holes at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown on all sides. They should puff up and float in the oil when done.
- Remove the Cherry Doughnut Holes with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Coat the Cherry Doughnut Holes
- In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon for coating.
- While the Cherry Doughnut Holes are still warm (but not hot), roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until completely coated.
- For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar just before serving, if desired.
Delicious Variations for Cherry Doughnut Holes
1. Chocolate Cherry Doughnut Holes
Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and fold in 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips. The combination of chocolate and cherries creates an indulgent treat that’s perfect for dessert.
2. Cherry Almond Doughnut Holes
Replace the vanilla extract with almond extract and add 1/4 cup finely chopped toasted almonds to the batter. Top with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and a drop of almond extract.
3. Cherry Cheesecake Doughnut Holes
Mix 2 tablespoons of cream cheese into the batter and use a cream cheese glaze (4 oz cream cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons milk) instead of the cinnamon-sugar coating.
4. Spiced Cherry Doughnut Holes
Add 1/4 teaspoon each of nutmeg, cardamom, and allspice to the dry ingredients for a warming, complex flavor that’s perfect for fall and winter.
5. Lemon Cherry Doughnut Holes
Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter and create a lemon glaze with 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest to drizzle over the finished Cherry Doughnut Holes.
6. Cherry Maple Bacon Doughnut Holes
Add 1/4 cup finely chopped cooked bacon to the batter and replace the cinnamon-sugar coating with a maple glaze (1 cup powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 tablespoon milk).
Cherry Doughnut Holes Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cherry Filling:
- 1 cup fresh cherries pitted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons cherry preserves
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Optional: 1/4 cup powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Cherry Filling
- In a saucepan, combine cherries, cherry preserves, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon zest.
- Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring until thickened.
- Let cool completely.
2️⃣ Make the Dough
- Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla.
- Gently combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
3️⃣ Form & Cook Doughnut Holes
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Drop 1 tablespoon of batter into the oil, add 1/2 teaspoon cherry filling, then cover with another tablespoon of batter.
- Fry 4-5 at a time for 2-3 minutes, turning until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels.
4️⃣ Coat the Doughnut Holes
- Mix cinnamon and sugar in a bowl.
- Roll warm doughnut holes in the mixture.
- Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Chocolate Cherry: Add cocoa powder & mini chocolate chips.
- Cherry Cheesecake: Mix in cream cheese & drizzle with glaze.
- Spiced Cherry: Add nutmeg & cardamom for a warm flavor.
- Lemon Cherry: Use lemon zest in the batter & glaze with lemon icing.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Doughnut Holes
Can I make Cherry Doughnut Holes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cherry filling up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The doughnut batter can be mixed and refrigerated the night before cooking. For best results, though, fry the Cherry Doughnut Holes the day you plan to serve them, as they’re most delicious when fresh.
How do I store leftover Cherry Doughnut Holes?
Store cooled Cherry Doughnut Holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for up to 1 month. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes, or microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Can I bake these Cherry Doughnut Holes instead of frying them?
Yes! While the texture won’t be exactly the same, you can bake these at 375°F for 10-12 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a greased mini muffin tin for more even baking. Brush with melted butter before rolling in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Why are my Cherry Doughnut Holes raw in the middle?
This usually happens when the oil is too hot, causing the outside to brown before the inside cooks through. Maintain a steady temperature around 350°F and try making the doughnut holes slightly smaller.
Can I make Cherry Doughnut Holes with gluten-free flour?
Yes! Use a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend. The texture might be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious. Add 1/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum if your flour blend doesn’t already include it.
How can I ensure the cherry filling stays inside the doughnut holes?
Make sure your cherry filling has cooled completely and thickened properly. When forming the Cherry Doughnut Holes, make a small indentation in the first spoonful of batter, add the filling, then carefully cover with more batter, sealing the edges.
Creating Sweet Memories with Cherry Doughnut Holes
There’s something so special about watching family members take their first bite of these Cherry Doughnut Holes, especially those who claim they’re “not dessert people.” My grandfather, who rarely showed enthusiasm for sweets, would always grab a second (and third) Cherry Doughnut Hole when he thought no one was looking.
These Cherry Doughnut Holes balance the comforting familiarity of a classic treat with the unexpected delight of biting into pockets of cherry goodness. They’re perfect for creating those memorable food moments that become part of family lore.
I hope these Cherry Doughnut Holes become a favorite in your kitchen too. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings and toppings to make them truly your own. After all, the best recipes are the ones that evolve with each person who makes them, collecting stories and memories along the way.