I appreciate the steps you've taken, @mbestgen. I know that copying and pasting entries is indeed much more convenient. Let me clarify how this behavior is designed to enter batch entries in QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT).
Batch Invoices & Credit memo entries should include an associated item to ensure that the amount can be mapped to the appropriate account in Accounts Receivable (AR). Each item has a corresponding income account, which facilitates this mapping and allows it to be recorded in the AR register.
Therefore, you need to include items in Excel so that the registered amounts can be recognized by QuickBooks, helping you avoid manual entry.
Please see the screenshots below:
For visual guide, check this article: Enter transactions by batch in QuickBooks Desktop.
Additionally, you can refer to this article as a future reference for recording payments: Receive invoice payment.
If you have any other questions about entering batch transactions, I'm here to help and ensure your experience is as smooth as possible.