Irresistible Cherry Glazed Chocolate Donut Holes: Your Ultimate Homemade Treat
Wake up to a morning filled with joy and the delightful aroma of homemade Cherry Glazed Chocolate Donut Holes! These little spheres of perfection boast a wonderfully crispy exterior that gives way to a moist, rich, and dense chocolate interior. Each bite is elevated by a vibrant cherry glaze, which introduces a subtle sweetness and a tantalizing tangy flavor that perfectly complements the deep chocolate notes. Get ready to discover your new favorite breakfast or brunch indulgence!
Good morning, indeed! What better way to greet the day than with a batch of warm, pillowy, and utterly poppable donut holes? If you’re anything like me, your sweet tooth is practically insatiable first thing in the morning. And let me tell you, when faced with a choice between something savory like biscuits and gravy or these heavenly cherry glazed chocolate donut holes, the decision is always clear. That delightful sugar kick just has a way of setting the day on a spectacularly sweet and optimistic note, far more preferable than a savory start, wouldn’t you agree?
There’s something uniquely satisfying about a homemade donut. The effort, the aroma filling your kitchen, and the unparalleled freshness combine to create a treat that simply cannot be replicated by store-bought versions. These donut holes are a prime example. From the moment they hit your palate, you’ll notice the incredible contrast: a delicately crisp shell followed by an interior that’s so moist and dense, it’s almost like a rich chocolate cake in miniature form. Every single bite delivers a symphony of textures and flavors, making them an irresistible indulgence for any time of day, though they truly shine as a breakfast highlight.
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The true star of this recipe, for me, is the exquisite cherry glaze. It’s not just an afterthought; it’s an essential component that elevates these chocolate donut holes to gourmet status. The glaze provides a brilliant pop of subtle sweetness intertwined with a delightful tanginess. This fruity, slightly tart element is crucial as it expertly cuts through the richness and density of the chocolate cake-like donut holes, preventing them from being overly heavy and ensuring a perfectly balanced flavor profile. The vibrant color of the cherry glaze also adds an appealing visual dimension, making these donut holes as beautiful to look at as they are delicious to eat.
The Allure of Homemade Donut Holes
Why do donut holes hold such a special place in our hearts? Perhaps it’s their bite-sized nature, making them perfectly “poppable” and easy to enjoy without any guilt. Or maybe it’s the sheer novelty of a miniature treat. Whatever the reason, homemade donut holes offer an experience far superior to their larger counterparts or store-bought equivalents. You get to control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and quality. Plus, there’s an inherent joy in creating something so delicious from scratch, especially when it results in such a crowd-pleasing delight.
Making donut holes at home also allows for incredible customization. While this recipe celebrates the classic pairing of chocolate and cherry, the base chocolate donut is versatile enough for other glazes or toppings. But trust me, the cherry glaze here is a revelation. It’s bright, fruity, and provides that much-needed counterpoint to the deep cocoa flavor. This combination isn’t just tasty; it’s a nostalgic nod to classic flavor pairings that evoke warmth and comfort.
A Special Treat for Any Occasion
It seems like time truly flies by, and before we know it, special occasions are upon us. Whether it’s Mother’s Day, a birthday celebration, a holiday gathering, or simply a lazy weekend morning, these Cherry Glazed Chocolate Donut Holes are the perfect way to make any moment feel extraordinary. They invite us to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy good company and delicious food. They are an ideal centerpiece for a leisurely breakfast or a delightful addition to any brunch spread. Pair them with a freshly brewed cup of coffee, a robust tea, a glass of cold milk, or, as suggested, a celebratory mimosa to truly complete the experience.
Imagine setting aside your busy schedule, gathering loved ones around the table, and sharing these warm, freshly made treats. It’s about creating memories, celebrating milestones, and appreciating the simple pleasures in life. So, this weekend, treat yourself and those you care about. Take that moment to slow down, whip up a batch of these delectable donut holes, and enjoy a lengthy, memorable morning feast.
Tips for Donut Hole Perfection
Creating these heavenly donut holes is a straightforward process, but a few key tips can ensure absolute perfection:
- Dough Consistency and Chilling: The dough should be soft but manageable. Chilling it for at least an hour is crucial. This step isn’t just for resting; it firms up the dough, making it much easier to roll and cut, and helps prevent the donut holes from absorbing too much oil during frying, resulting in that desirable crispy exterior.
- Frying Temperature is Key: Maintaining the correct oil temperature (around 375°F or 190°C) is paramount. If the oil is too cool, the donut holes will become greasy and heavy. If it’s too hot, they’ll brown too quickly on the outside, leaving the inside raw. Invest in a reliable deep-fry thermometer for best results.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Fry the donut holes in small batches, typically 4-5 at a time. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature significantly, leading to uneven cooking and greasy donuts. Giving them space allows them to cook evenly and turn golden brown.
- Draining Properly: Once fried, immediately transfer the donut holes to a plate lined with paper towels. This helps absorb excess oil, ensuring they remain light and crispy.
- The Perfect Glaze: The cherry glaze should be thick enough to cling to the donut holes but thin enough to pour smoothly. Adjust with extra milk a teaspoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency. Coating them while still warm helps the glaze adhere beautifully.
Deep-Frying vs. Baking Donut Holes
While baked donut holes offer a lighter, cake-like experience, deep-frying is undeniably the method for achieving that classic donut texture: a golden, slightly crisp exterior with a soft, tender interior. For this particular recipe, with its dense chocolate base and rich glaze, deep-frying provides the ideal structure and mouthfeel. It creates a satisfying contrast that baked versions simply can’t replicate. Don’t be intimidated by deep-frying; with the right temperature control, it’s an enjoyable and rewarding process that yields truly superior results.
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This Recipe’s Must Haves
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable donut-making experience, here are a few kitchen essentials you might find helpful:
- Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls: Durable and essential for mixing your dough and glaze.
- Cuisipro 12-Inch Stainless Steel Duo Whisk: For perfectly incorporating ingredients and achieving a lump-free glaze.
- Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 5-1/2-Quart Round Dutch Oven: An excellent choice for deep frying, maintaining consistent oil temperature.
- Helen Chen’s Asian Kitchen Stainless Steel Spider Strainer: Ideal for safely removing fried donut holes from hot oil.
Don’t forget to pin this Cherry Glazed Chocolate Donut Holes recipe for later, so you can revisit this delightful treat whenever a craving strikes!
Cherry Glazed Chocolate Donut Holes
ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 Tbsp baking powder
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 Tbsp heavy cream
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 5 Tbsp unsalted butter melted and cooled
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Oil for frying
- 1 1/4 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 3 Tbsp cherry jam
- 4 to 5 tablespoons whole milk
- 2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Ensure all dry ingredients are well combined.
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In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, lightly beaten egg, melted and cooled unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredient mixture. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the dough to rest and firm up.
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Once chilled, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough out evenly until it reaches approximately 1/2 inch thickness. Using a biscuit cutter or a small cookie cutter (about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter), cut out small circles from the dough. Gather any dough scraps, gently re-roll them, and cut additional donut holes until all the dough has been used.
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In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven, heat about 2 to 3 inches of frying oil over medium heat until it reaches a temperature of 375°F (190°C). Fry the donut holes in batches of 4 to 5 at a time for approximately 2 to 3 minutes, flipping them as needed, until they are puffed and golden brown on all sides. Using a spider strainer, carefully remove the fried donut holes and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining dough.
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While the donut holes are cooling slightly, prepare the cherry glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, cherry jam, 4 tablespoons of whole milk, and vanilla extract until completely smooth. If the glaze is too thick, gradually whisk in additional milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you achieve your desired pouring consistency.
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Arrange the warm donut holes on a wire baking rack placed over a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Slowly pour the cherry glaze over the donut holes, ensuring each one is thoroughly coated. You may need to use a spoon to help coat the sides. Serve these delightful treats immediately for the best experience, or store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
There you have it – a recipe for Cherry Glazed Chocolate Donut Holes that are sure to become a beloved staple in your home. These little bundles of joy are more than just a sweet treat; they’re an invitation to slow down, enjoy the process of baking, and share something truly special with those you cherish. The combination of rich chocolate, perfect texture, and tangy cherry glaze is simply unforgettable. Enjoy every delicious, poppable bite!
Once you’ve tried them, you’ll understand why these homemade donut holes are a game-changer for breakfast, brunch, or even an afternoon pick-me-up. Their charming size and explosive flavor make them an instant favorite. And remember, the joy of cooking lies not just in the eating, but in the entire journey from ingredients to creation. Happy baking!
For best results and maximum freshness, enjoy your donut holes within a day or two. While they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature, that crispy exterior is best savored shortly after glazing. However, I doubt you’ll have many leftovers!
If you’re looking for more ways to incorporate fresh flavors into your baking, consider experimenting with other fruit jams for the glaze. Raspberry or strawberry could also offer a delightful twist, though cherry holds a special place for its classic affinity with chocolate. No matter how you serve them, these Cherry Glazed Chocolate Donut Holes are designed to bring smiles and satisfy even the most demanding sweet tooth.