Can I make this dessert without a grill?

Absolutely! You can achieve a similar effect using a grill pan on your stovetop. Alternatively, you could toast the doughnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, or even broil them in the oven for 1-2 minutes per side (watch carefully to prevent burning).

What if I can't find good fresh strawberries?

While fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Thaw them completely, drain excess liquid, and then macerate as directed. You could also substitute other fresh berries like raspberries, blackberries, or a combination.

Is there a substitute for ricotta in the cream?

Yes! If you don't have ricotta or prefer something different, mascarpone cheese makes an excellent substitute. For a lighter option, you could use Greek yogurt, though the texture will be slightly different. Alternatively, you could simply use whipped cream sweetened with a little powdered sugar and vanilla.

Can I make a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Certainly! Use dairy-free doughnuts and replace the cream cheese, ricotta, and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream, dairy-free cream cheese, and whipped coconut milk. The flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Strawberry Shortcake Grilled Doughnuts Recipe

Description

Indulge in a summery twist on a classic dessert with Strawberry Shortcake Grilled Doughnuts. Glazed doughnuts are grilled for caramelized flavor and filled with juicy macerated strawberries and whipped ricotta cream for a luscious treat perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Strawberries

6 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
3 tbsp granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Grilled Doughnuts

8 glazed doughnuts (store-bought or homemade brioche doughnuts)

For the Whipped Ricotta Cream

4 oz cream cheese
16 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries: In a bowl, combine the strawberries, sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla. Toss well to coat evenly. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least 20-30 minutes until the berries start to release their juices. After 30 minutes, you can refrigerate the macerated strawberries for up to 1 day if prepping ahead.
Make the Whipped Ricotta Cream: In the bowl of a stand mixer (or use a handheld mixer), beat the cream cheese on high speed until light and fluffy. Add the ricotta cheese and heavy whipping cream to the bowl and continue to whip until the mixture is smooth and the cream holds soft peaks, about 6-8 minutes. Add vanilla and mix until just combined. Cover and refrigerate the cream until ready to use.
Grill the Doughnuts: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the glazed doughnuts on the grill and cook until lightly caramelized and grill marks appear, about 30 seconds to 1 minute per side. Watch closely, as doughnuts can burn quickly due to the sugar content. Remove from the grill and let cool slightly before handling.
Assemble the Shortcakes: Slice the grilled doughnuts in half horizontally. Fill each doughnut with a generous spoonful of macerated strawberries and a dollop of whipped ricotta cream. Replace the top half of the doughnut if desired.
Serve: Serve the strawberry shortcake grilled doughnuts immediately, enjoying the warm, caramelized doughnut with cool, creamy filling and fresh strawberries.

Notes

Use the freshest strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
Be careful when grilling doughnuts, as they can burn quickly due to sugar in the glaze.
You can prepare the strawberries and whipped ricotta cream in advance for easy assembly.
Swap ricotta with mascarpone for a richer cream if preferred.
Leftover grilled doughnuts can be stored in an airtight container, but assemble just before eating for optimal texture.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 assembled doughnut shortcake
Calories: 410
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 280mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 65mg