Get ready to fall in love with the delightful charm of our Strawberry-Glazed Donut Holes: Tiny Bites of Pure Berry Bliss Recipe. These little pockets of joy offer a perfect balance of fluffy, tender donut bliss coated in a luscious strawberry glaze that bursts with fresh berry flavor in every bite. Perfect for breakfast treats, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a sweet party snack, these donut holes bring a playful pop of sweetness that’s both nostalgic and irresistibly fresh.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity, yet each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor. From the fluffy foundation of all-purpose flour to the bright, tangy notes of freeze-dried strawberries in the glaze, these ingredients come together to make magic.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives your donut holes their soft, tender crumb.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right hint of sweetness to the dough.
- 1 tbsp baking powder: Helps the donut holes rise perfectly fluffy.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the flavors beautifully and enhances sweetness.
- 1 cup whole milk: Keeps the dough moist and tender.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together and adds richness.
- 2 tbsp melted butter: Brings a subtle buttery flavor and adds to the soft texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth into the batter.
- Oil for frying: The golden bath that creates crispy, perfectly cooked donut holes.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: The sweet base for the irresistible glaze.
- 2 tbsp crushed freeze-dried strawberries: Packs an intense fruity punch with vibrant color for the glaze.
- 2–3 tbsp milk: Used to adjust the glaze to just the right consistency.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla: Adds a lovely aroma and depth to the strawberry glaze.
- Extra strawberry dust for topping: For that final pop of berry love and beautiful presentation.
How to Make Strawberry-Glazed Donut Holes: Tiny Bites of Pure Berry Bliss Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Start by heating your oil to 350°F in a deep pot. This precise temperature will give your donut holes the perfect golden color and crisp exterior without absorbing too much oil. Use a thermometer for best results, and make sure there’s enough oil to allow the donut holes to float and cook evenly.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This combination will lay the foundation for your tender, fluffy donut holes with just the right hint of sweetness and a balanced rise.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the whole milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. These wet components bring moisture, richness, and a warm vanilla undertone that takes your donut holes to the next level.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing here to keep your donut holes tender and light—the batter should be a little lumpy but fully incorporated.
Step 5: Fry the Donut Holes
Use a tablespoon to scoop dollops of the dough and carefully drop them into the hot oil. Fry the donut holes for about 2 to 3 minutes, turning them frequently to ensure an even golden-brown finish all around. This step is where the magic happens: crispy on the outside, soft on the inside.
Step 6: Cool on a Rack
Once golden and puffed, remove the donut holes from the oil and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly. This helps them stay crisp and drains any excess oil so your bites stay light and irresistible.
Step 7: Prepare the Strawberry Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust the milk quantity until your glaze is thick but easily drizzle-able or perfect for dipping.
Step 8: Glaze and Finish
While the donut holes are still warm, dip them in or drizzle with the strawberry glaze. Then sprinkle extra strawberry dust on top for a gorgeous, poppy finish that screams berry bliss. Let them set for a few minutes, and then you’re ready for your first bite.
How to Serve Strawberry-Glazed Donut Holes: Tiny Bites of Pure Berry Bliss Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, think beyond just the glaze. Fresh strawberry slices, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or even a few mint leaves add freshness and color that make these tiny bites irresistible on any table.
Side Dishes
These strawberry-glazed wonders pair beautifully with light sides such as a fresh fruit salad, a cup of hot coffee, or even a refreshing glass of cold milk. These complements enhance the donut holes’ sweetness without overpowering their delicate notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your donut holes on a tiered cake stand for a fancy touch at brunch or afternoon tea. For an extra fun twist, skewer a few on toothpicks and arrange them in a “donut hole bouquet” with ribbons and paper wrappers for a playful party centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover donut holes fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This prevents them from becoming soggy while holding onto their delightful softness and glaze charm.
Freezing
If you want to save more for later, freeze your donut holes on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to one month, allowing you to enjoy your Strawberry-Glazed Donut Holes: Tiny Bites of Pure Berry Bliss Recipe whenever you crave a sweet berry treat.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or stored donut holes gently in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds until warm. This refreshes their softness and makes the glaze slightly melty and extra tempting.
FAQs
Can I bake these donut holes instead of frying?
Absolutely, if you prefer to bake, place spoonfuls of batter on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F for about 12–15 minutes until golden. They won’t have the same crispy exterior but will still be a tasty treat, especially when glazed.
What can I substitute for freeze-dried strawberries?
If freeze-dried strawberries aren’t available, you can use strawberry jam or puree, but reduce the milk in the glaze to avoid it becoming too runny. Fresh strawberries won’t work as well in the glaze because they add extra moisture.
How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?
The ideal frying temperature is 350°F. Using a candy or deep-fry thermometer is your best bet. If you don’t have one, drop a small piece of dough into the oil—if it bubbles and rises quickly to the surface, the oil is hot enough.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly different, but the overall taste and enjoyment of the Strawberry-Glazed Donut Holes: Tiny Bites of Pure Berry Bliss Recipe will still shine.
Why is my glaze too runny or too thick?
Adjust the milk amount carefully to reach desired thickness. If too runny, add a bit more powdered sugar; if too thick, add a small splash more milk. The glaze should coat the donut holes nicely without dripping off too quickly.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving these Strawberry-Glazed Donut Holes: Tiny Bites of Pure Berry Bliss Recipe a try. Their simplicity combined with that burst of fresh berry sweetness makes them an easy crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re making a cozy weekend breakfast or an impressive party snack, these little jewels are guaranteed to bring smiles and second-helpings. Happy frying and glazing!
Print
Strawberry-Glazed Donut Holes: Tiny Bites of Pure Berry Bliss Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 donut holes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Strawberry-Glazed Donut Holes are delightful bite-sized treats featuring fluffy fried dough coated in a sweet and tangy strawberry glaze. Perfect as a snack or dessert, these tiny donuts burst with pure berry bliss, combining the classic donut flavor with a fresh fruity twist.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Oil for frying (enough to fill deep pot about 2-3 inches)
Strawberry Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp crushed freeze-dried strawberries
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Extra crushed freeze-dried strawberries for topping
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C), ensuring there is enough oil for the donut holes to float and fry evenly.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the whole milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined, taking care not to overmix to keep the dough light and fluffy.
- Shape and fry: Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, drop dough balls carefully into the hot oil. Fry the donut holes in batches for about 2 to 3 minutes, turning often to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.
- Drain and cool: Remove the fried donut holes with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil and cool slightly.
- Prepare glaze: In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Adjust milk quantity to reach desired consistency.
- Glaze donut holes: While the donut holes are still warm, dip them into the strawberry glaze or drizzle the glaze over the donut holes for even coverage.
- Add topping: Sprinkle extra crushed freeze-dried strawberries over the glazed donut holes to add a vibrant color and extra berry flavor.
- Set and serve: Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving these bite-sized strawberry delights warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure the oil temperature is maintained at 350°F for perfectly fried donut holes that are golden and cooked through.
- Do not overmix the batter; a light touch keeps the donut holes tender.
- Use freeze-dried strawberries for a concentrated berry flavor and a pretty pink color in the glaze.
- Donut holes are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- If glaze thickens, stir in a little more milk until pourable.
- Use a thermometer for accurate oil temperature to avoid greasy or undercooked donut holes.
