1-First Step: Bloom the Yeast Combine 1 cup (227g) warm buttermilk, 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon of the sugar in a bowl; let it sit for 5 to 7 minutes until foamy. This step activates the yeast, ensuring your dough rises properly.

2-Second Step: Mix the Dough In a stand mixer bowl, add 4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour, the remaining sugar, 4 tablespoons (57g) melted butter, 2 large eggs, ½ teaspoon salt, and the bloomed yeast mixture. Mix on low speed until it forms a shaggy ball, about 2 minutes. This creates the base for your fluffy donuts.

3-Third Step: Knead the Dough Attach the dough hook and knead on medium speed for about 15 minutes until it passes the window pane test. If you knead by hand, it takes 15-20 minutes; check the related strawberry cheesecake dip recipe for hand-kneading tips. The dough should be smooth and elastic.

4-Fourth Step: Let the Dough Rise Shape the dough into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl, covering with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled in size. In colder months, warm your oven briefly and proof inside for consistent results.

5-Fifth Step: Prepare for Frying Divide the dough into 12 or 13 portions, about 70 grams each. Shape each piece by pressing flat, pinching edges, and rolling into balls. Place on 4×4 inch parchment squares and proof for 45 minutes until they pass the poke test.

6-Sixth Step: Make the Filling Pulse 1 cup (25g) freeze-dried raspberries into powder, then whisk with 8 oz (227g) cream cheese, 1 cup (113g) powdered sugar, ½ cup (113g) heavy cream, and ½ teaspoon vanilla until fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a piping bag.

7-Seventh Step: Fry the Donuts Heat 2 inches of oil to 350ºF-360ºF in a heavy pot. Fry donuts in batches for 45 seconds per side, then 20 seconds more after flipping. Drain on paper towels and coat in 1 cup (200g) sugar.

8-Final Step: Fill and Serve Make a small hole in each donut and pipe in the filling. Serve immediately for the best taste. This step takes about 5 minutes and makes your raspberry cheesecake donuts ready to enjoy. Total prep is 30 minutes, cook time 15 minutes, with rising at 1 hour 45 minutes.