Pumpkin Cheesecake Donuts Recipe

“`html

If you’re on the hunt for a fall treat that feels like a warm hug in donut form, this Pumpkin Cheesecake Donuts Recipe is absolutely the answer. Soft, tender pumpkin-spiced donuts swirl with creamy cheesecake filling, then get a shiny vanilla glaze that seals in cozy flavors. These donuts bring all the best parts of pumpkin pies and cheesecakes together in a fun, breakfast-friendly bite that’s perfect to share (or not). It’s a simple recipe that makes a big impression, turning an ordinary morning or snack into something special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a crucial role, from the fragrant spices that evoke autumn to the silky cheesecake filling that gives these donuts their irresistible creaminess. Each component is straightforward, making this recipe a breeze without sacrificing any flavor or texture.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for a tender, fluffy donut.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Gives the donuts a nice lift for a light texture.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic pumpkin to help the donuts rise beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm, sweet-spicy depth that defines fall baking.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Enhances the pumpkin’s natural earthiness with a nutty aroma.
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger: Introduces a slight zing to balance the sweetness.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves: Offers a mysterious floral note for complexity.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Brightens and balances all the sweet and spicy flavors.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens while helping with the donut’s tender crumb.
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor.
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the donuts wonderfully moist and soft.
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that brings rich color, moisture, and that unmistakable fall flavor.
• ½ cup milk: Balances the batter’s consistency and adds creaminess.
• 2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness to the donut batter.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Essential for the luscious cheesecake filling.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for filling): Sweetens the cream cheese just right.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling): Lifts the flavor of the cheesecake filling to silky perfection.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates a smooth, sweet coating for the donuts.
• 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze): Thins the glaze to just the right drip consistency.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Adds sweet aroma and richness to the glaze.
• Pinch of salt (for glaze): Balances sweetness and boosts flavor complexity.

How to Make Pumpkin Cheesecake Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Kick off your baking adventure by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease two donut pans with cooking spray or oil so your donuts pop out easily without losing their shape.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a big bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. Setting these aside lets you bring all the warm fall spices front and center while prepping the batter for a flawless texture.

Step 3: Combine Sugars and Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until smooth and slightly glossy. This base keeps the donuts tender. Then blend in pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to bring richness and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.

Step 4: Bring the Batter Together

Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mix, stirring gently until just combined. Over-mixing can toughen your donuts, so a light hand ensures they stay soft and fluffy for the perfect bite.

Step 5: Fill Donut Molds with Batter

Use a spoon to fill each donut mold about three-quarters full, creating just the right base layer for the cheesecake filling to nestle into perfectly.

Step 6: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until silky smooth. This luscious filling is the heart of the recipe, promising that dreamy creamy center in every donut.

Step 7: Pipe Cheesecake Filling into Donuts

Fill a piping bag or a ziplock bag with the cheesecake filling, snip a tiny corner, and carefully dollop the filling into each donut mold, swirling it gently into the batter for a marbled effect that looks as good as it tastes.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place your pans in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the donuts comes out clean. The aroma at this stage will have your kitchen feeling like a cozy fall festival.

Step 9: Cool Down

Let the donuts sit in their pans for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is key to setting their shape and prepping for the glaze.

Step 10: Whip Up the Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and glossy. This simple glaze adds just the right amount of sweet shimmer and a silky finish to your donuts.

Step 11: Glaze and Set

Dip the tops of each fully cooled donut into the glaze, letting the excess drip off. Place them back on the rack and allow the glaze to set, so every bite gets that perfect balance of cakey, creamy, and sweet.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cheesecake Donuts Recipe

Garnishes

To accentuate the warmth and creaminess of the Pumpkin Cheesecake Donuts Recipe, try sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon sugar, chopped toasted pecans, or a few mini chocolate chips on the glaze. These little extras add delightful texture and an inviting look that makes sharing even more fun.

Side Dishes

Serve these donuts alongside a steaming cup of spiced chai tea, rich coffee, or creamy hot chocolate to complement their autumnal spices. They also pair well with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent dessert twist.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive brunch or party, stack the glazed donuts on a tiered cake stand with sprigs of fresh rosemary or small pumpkins for a charming display. You can also make mini donut sandwiches by slicing horizontally and adding a dollop of whipped cream or more cheesecake filling between the halves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Pumpkin Cheesecake Donuts Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Placing a slice of bread inside the container can help maintain moisture and keep the donuts soft.

Freezing

These donuts freeze beautifully! Wrap each donut tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before glazing for the best texture.

Reheating

To recapture that just-baked warmth, microwave a donut for about 10-15 seconds or warm in a preheated 325°F oven for 5 minutes. If glazing after reheating, wait until the donut cools slightly to dip for a shiny finish that doesn’t melt away.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Just be sure to cook and puree your fresh pumpkin first to achieve the right texture and moisture level. Canned pumpkin puree is handy because it’s consistent and thick, but fresh pumpkin adds an extra touch of homemade goodness.

Can I make these donuts dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap out the cream cheese and milk for dairy-free alternatives like vegan cream cheese and almond or oat milk. The texture might be slightly different, but the Pumpkin Cheesecake Donuts Recipe remains delicious and perfectly autumnal.

Do I need special equipment to make these donuts?

A donut pan is necessary to achieve the classic donut shape and texture. If you don’t have one, mini muffin tins can work in a pinch, but the result won’t be quite the same. A piping bag or ziplock bag for the cheesecake filling is helpful but not required—you can spoon it in carefully instead.

How do I know when the donuts are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the donut, avoiding the cheesecake filling. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your donuts are perfectly baked. Overbaking can dry them out, so keep a close eye starting at 15 minutes.

Can I skip the glaze or replace it with something else?

While the glaze adds a lovely sweet finish, you can definitely skip it or substitute with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup for a different but equally delicious finish.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Pumpkin Cheesecake Donuts Recipe enough for your next cozy morning or festive gathering. It’s the perfect blend of comforting fall spices and creamy indulgence, baked into bite-sized happiness. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed how easy it is to create something so irresistibly delicious right in your own kitchen!

“`

Print