If you have a weakness for tangy and creamy desserts with a soft, fluffy bite, then this Lemon Cheesecake Doughnuts Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Bursting with zesty lemon flavor and creamy cheesecake filling, these doughnuts hit that perfect balance of sweet and tart. They’re surprisingly simple to make and give you that incredible homemade doughnut experience without the fuss. Once you try these, you’ll find yourself coming back again and again for a delightful treat that’s just as fun to make as it is to devour.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a special role in making these Lemon Cheesecake Doughnuts Recipe come to life. From the soft biscuit dough that creates the perfect doughnut base to the bright lemon zest that adds a fresh pop of flavor, every component ensures your end result is nothing short of spectacular.
- Refrigerated biscuit dough or yeast-raised doughnuts: Provides the soft and airy doughnut base, ideal for frying and filling.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Creates a rich, creamy filling that contrasts beautifully with the tangy lemon.
- Powdered sugar (2 tablespoons + ½ cup for dusting): Sweetens the cheesecake filling and can be used for a delicate finishing touch.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brings that fresh, zesty brightness essential for the lemon flavor.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Adds concentrated lemon oils and aroma, boosting the overall citrus experience.
- Vanilla extract (½ teaspoon): Enhances the sweetness and balances the tartness with warmth.
- Lemon curd (½ cup): The crowning glory for filling—rich, tangy, and perfectly smooth.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Ensures even frying with a neutral taste, giving the doughnuts a golden crisp exterior.
How to Make Lemon Cheesecake Doughnuts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Begin by mixing the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract in a bowl until the mixture is silky smooth and creamy. This luscious filling is the heart of your doughnuts, so taking the time to get it perfect will really pay off. Transfer the mix into a piping bag with a small round tip and pop it into the fridge to firm up while you get the doughnuts ready.
Step 2: Fry the Doughnuts
If you are using biscuit dough, carefully separate each biscuit and gently flatten them just a bit for frying. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet until it reaches 350°F. Fry a few doughnuts at a time for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. Don’t forget to let them cool slightly, so they’re easier to handle for the next step.
Step 3: Fill the Doughnuts
Take a small knife or skewer and make a hole on the side of each doughnut. Wiggle it gently to create enough space for the filling. Pipe a generous amount of the cheesecake mixture inside, then add a spoonful of lemon curd on top for that double punch of lemony goodness. This layered filling makes each bite irresistibly creamy and tangy.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
For an extra special presentation, dust the doughnuts lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle with a glaze if you prefer. Serve these beauties fresh and watch as they become the star of any gathering or a sweet little pick-me-up for yourself.
How to Serve Lemon Cheesecake Doughnuts Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a little powdered sugar over the doughnuts just before serving adds a delicate sweetness and a lovely visual appeal. Alternatively, a light drizzle of lemon glaze or a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios can add texture and elegance that turn a simple treat into a showstopper.
Side Dishes
These doughnuts pair perfectly with a cup of your favorite tea, bright citrus coffee, or even a chilled glass of sparkling lemonade. The citrus notes in the drinks complement the lemon in the doughnuts, making for a harmonious flavor experience. Fresh berries also make a wonderful side, adding a fresh burst of color and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Lemon Cheesecake Doughnuts Recipe on a decorative platter with edible flowers or lemon slices for a fresh, inviting look. You can also offer small bowls of additional lemon curd or berry compote for guests to add as they please, making the experience interactive and extra sweet.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Because of the cream cheese filling, it’s best to enjoy these doughnuts within that time frame to keep the flavors fresh and the texture just right.
Freezing
You can freeze unfilled doughnuts before frying or fry and cool them before freezing. To freeze after frying, place doughnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a sealed container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before filling and serving.
Reheating
For warm doughnuts that taste freshly made, reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300°F for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it might make them soggy. Once warm, fill them with the chilled cheesecake mixture and lemon curd.
FAQs
Can I use homemade doughnut dough instead of biscuit dough?
Absolutely! Homemade doughnut dough can give your Lemon Cheesecake Doughnuts Recipe an even richer texture. Just be sure to adjust frying times accordingly to cook them through without burning the outside.
Is it possible to bake these doughnuts instead of frying?
Yes, baking is an option if you want a lighter version. Flatten the biscuit dough a little and bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until golden. Then fill and garnish as usual. Keep in mind the texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
What can I substitute for lemon curd if I don’t have any?
If lemon curd isn’t available, try using a high-quality lemon jam or even a spoonful of lemon marmalade. For a fruity twist, strawberry or blueberry jam works beautifully too with the cheesecake filling.
How do I make the cream cheese filling less tangy?
If you prefer a milder filling, reduce the lemon juice by half and increase the powdered sugar slightly. The vanilla extract also helps mellow out the tartness while keeping the wonderful flavor balance intact.
Can I make these doughnuts gluten-free?
Yes, but you’ll need to use a gluten-free dough that holds together well for frying, such as a gluten-free biscuit dough or a specialized gluten-free doughnut dough. The filling and lemon curd are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy dessert to adapt.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about creating homemade treats, and this Lemon Cheesecake Doughnuts Recipe hits all the right notes with its perfect blend of tangy lemon and creamy cheesecake filling. Whether you’re making them for a special brunch, a sweet snack, or just to satisfy your citrusy cravings, they’re bound to bring smiles all around. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a cherished classic in your kitchen too!
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Lemon Cheesecake Doughnuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 doughnuts 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these luscious Lemon Cheesecake Doughnuts, featuring soft, golden-fried doughnuts filled with a tangy cream cheese and lemon curd mixture. Perfect as a fresh, fruity dessert treat, these doughnuts combine the warmth of homemade frying with the refreshing zest of lemon for a truly irresistible flavor experience.
Ingredients
Doughnuts
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough or yeast-raised doughnuts
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 inches depth)
Cheesecake Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Filling & Topping
- ½ cup lemon curd
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting or glazing, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip and refrigerate it to firm up until ready to use.
- Prepare the Doughnuts: If using biscuit dough, separate the biscuits and gently flatten each one to prepare for frying. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat, bringing the temperature to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Doughnuts: Carefully add 2–3 doughnuts at a time to the hot oil. Fry each side for 1 to 2 minutes or until the doughnuts turn golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them cool slightly before filling.
- Fill the Doughnuts: Use a small knife or skewer to make a hole in the side of each doughnut and gently wiggle it to create space for the filling. Pipe some of the cheesecake mixture inside each doughnut, followed by a spoonful of lemon curd for extra tangy sweetness.
- Finish and Serve: Dust the filled doughnuts with powdered sugar or drizzle with a glaze if desired. Serve fresh to enjoy their creamy, zesty flavor at its best.
Notes
- You can use pre-made doughnuts for a shortcut and simply fill them with the cheesecake and lemon curd mixture.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; however, these doughnuts are best enjoyed the same day they are made for optimal freshness.
- For a fun variation, try substituting the lemon curd with strawberry or blueberry curd to add a different fruity twist.
