Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

Spice things up this fall with these Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts. They’re a delightful treat that combines fluffy pumpkin brioche with a creamy pumpkin spice cheesecake filling, all dusted with a sweet pumpkin spice sugar. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these doughnuts are sure to impress at any gathering or cozy weekend brunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cream cheese creates a rich, satisfying taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive celebration or a casual brunch, these doughnuts fit right in!
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even beginner bakers can achieve delicious results.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them warm, chilled, or as a sweet snack anytime throughout the day.
• Impressive Presentation: These doughnuts not only taste great but also look stunning on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts effortlessly, gather the necessary tools and know how to prepare for this baking adventure.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Doughnut cutter
• Frying thermometer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Perfect for kneading the dough evenly, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
• Frying thermometer: Helps monitor oil temperature for perfectly cooked doughnuts without excess grease.
• Doughnut cutter: Ensures uniform shapes for even cooking and appealing presentation.

Ingredients

For the Doughnut Base

• 3 cups (375 grams) bread flour
• 1 cup (125 grams) Baker’s Corner All-Purpose Flour
• 1/3 cup (67 grams) Baker’s Corner Granulated Sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (7 grams) instant yeast
• 1 1/4 teaspoons (7 grams) kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon Stonemill Pumpkin Pie Spice
• 3/4 cup (180 grams) whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 egg yolk
• 1/2 cup (122 grams) Baker’s Corner 100% Pure Canned Pumpkin
• 1 teaspoon (5 grams) vanilla extract
• 6 tablespoons (85 grams) Countryside Creamery Unsalted Butter, softened and cubed
• Carlini Vegetable Oil or other neutral oil, for frying

For the Filling and Topping

• 2 8-oz packages Happy Farms Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Spread
• 1/2 cup (60 grams) Baker’s Corner Powdered Sugar, sifted
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon Stonemill Vanilla Extract
• 1/2 teaspoon Stonemill Pumpkin Pie Spice
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) Baker’s Corner Granulated Sugar
• 2 teaspoons Stonemill Pumpkin Pie Spice

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by combining the flours, sugar, yeast, salt, and pumpkin pie spice in your stand mixer bowl. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, gently heat the milk until warm but not boiling. Add in the egg, egg yolk, canned pumpkin, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until smooth. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients while mixing on low speed.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Once combined, add in the softened butter. Increase mixer speed to medium and knead until dough is smooth and elastic. This should take about 5–7 minutes.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Transfer the dough into a greased bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm area until it doubles in size—approximately 1 hour.

Step 5: Shape the Doughnuts

After rising, punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Roll out onto a floured surface to about ½ inch thickness. Use your doughnut cutter to cut out shapes.

Step 6: Heat Oil for Frying

In a large pot or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use your frying thermometer to maintain the heat during cooking.

Step 7: Frying Time

Carefully add shaped doughnuts into hot oil. Fry each side for about 2–3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 8: Prepare Filling

While cooling, beat together cream cheese spread with powdered sugar and heavy cream until fluffy. Add vanilla extract and spices; mix well.

Step 9: Fill Doughnuts

Using a piping bag fitted with a nozzle, fill each cooled doughnut with the pumpkin spice cheesecake filling.

Step 10: Final Touches

Mix granulated sugar with pumpkin pie spice for coating. Dust filled doughnuts generously before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts, perfect for sharing or indulging solo!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

Pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them solo, the right presentation can enhance the experience.

With Coffee

• Pair these doughnuts with a warm cup of coffee for a perfect morning boost. The flavors of pumpkin spice complement the rich taste of coffee beautifully.

As a Dessert Platter

• Serve a selection of pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts on a decorative platter. Add some autumn-themed decorations for an inviting look.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each doughnut with a dollop of whipped cream. This adds an extra creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the cheesecake filling.

On a Brunch Table

• Include these doughnuts as part of a brunch spread. They make for a great addition alongside other autumn-inspired dishes like apple cider pancakes.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

To ensure your pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts turn out perfectly, follow these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check that your baking ingredients are fresh. This enhances the flavor and texture of your doughnuts.

• Measure Accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and sugar to achieve the right consistency in your dough. Too much or too little can affect the outcome.

• Don’t Overmix: When mixing your dough, be careful not to overmix it. This can lead to tough doughnuts rather than fluffy ones.

• Heat Oil Properly: Ensure the frying oil is at the right temperature before adding your doughnuts. If it’s too hot, they may burn; if too cool, they will absorb too much oil.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

Pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts are versatile and can be complemented by various side dishes. Here are some ideas to serve alongside them:

1. Apple Cider Donuts: These sweet treats have a similar flavor profile and make for an excellent pairing with pumpkin spice.

2. Cinnamon Roll Casserole: A warm, gooey cinnamon roll casserole adds comfort and sweetness to your meal.

3. Hot Chocolate: A rich hot chocolate provides a cozy drink option that pairs well with the spices in the doughnuts.

4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of the doughnuts, providing lightness to your plate.

5. Maple Pecan Scones: These scones bring buttery richness and nutty flavors that complement the pumpkin spice theme perfectly.

6. Chai Tea: The spiced flavors of chai tea enhance the overall experience, making it an ideal drink choice with pumpkin treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes while making Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts can significantly enhance your baking experience.

• Skipping the yeast proofing: Always proof your yeast before adding it to the dough. This step ensures that the yeast is active and will help your doughnuts rise properly.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements. Baking is a science, and even slight variations can affect your results.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined to maintain a light texture. Overmixing can lead to tough doughnuts that lose their fluffiness.
• Ignoring oil temperature when frying: Make sure your oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) for optimal frying. Too hot will burn them, while too cold will result in greasy doughnuts.
• Filling doughnuts too soon: Allow the doughnuts to cool before filling them with the cheesecake mixture. Filling them while hot can cause the filling to melt and create a mess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

• Wrap each doughnut individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. This method keeps them nice and fluffy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: In a pan over low heat, warm each doughnut for a couple of minutes, flipping once. This method adds a lovely crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of canned pumpkin?

You can use pumpkin pie filling, but it may alter the sweetness and spice levels. Adjust sugar and spices accordingly based on personal taste.

How do I make these doughnuts gluten-free?

To make gluten-free pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum.

What’s the best way to fill the doughnuts?

Using a piping bag with a long nozzle works best. Insert it into the side of each cooled doughnut and squeeze gently to fill with cheesecake mixture.

How long does it take to prepare these Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts?

Preparation and cooking time combined should take about 2 hours, including rising time for the dough.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts are not just delightful treats; they’re perfect for breakfast or dessert during fall! Their rich flavors and customizable filling options allow you to impress family and friends. Give this recipe a try, and feel free to experiment with different fillings or toppings!