Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

Spice things up this fall with these Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these delightful treats combine the flavors of pumpkin and cheesecake in a fluffy doughnut. They are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a fantastic addition to your autumn gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cheesecake creates a rich, creamy taste that is perfect for fall.
• Festive Treat: These doughnuts are ideal for seasonal celebrations, family gatherings, or cozy mornings at home.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can enjoy making these doughnuts.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Serve them as breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack; they fit any occasion.
• Impressive Presentation: Dusted in pumpkin spice sugar, these doughnuts are sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts, you will need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smoother baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or bowl and whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Doughnut cutter
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or bowl and whisk: A stand mixer makes it easier to knead the dough until it’s perfectly smooth and elastic.
• Doughnut cutter: This tool helps shape your doughnuts consistently for even frying and presentation.

Ingredients

For the Doughnuts

• 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

• 2 8-oz packages Happy Farms Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Spread

For the Topping

• 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

In a stand mixer bowl, combine the bread flour, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, kosher salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix well until combined.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, warm the whole milk until it’s just warm to touch. Add the milk to the dry ingredients along with the egg, egg yolk, canned pumpkin, and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until everything is incorporated.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Add softened butter to the mixture. Increase the speed to medium-high and knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth. The dough should be elastic but not sticky.

Step 4: First Rise

Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size—about 1 hour.

Step 5: Shape the Doughnuts

Once risen, punch down the dough gently. Roll it out on a floured surface to about ½ inch thickness. Use your doughnut cutter to cut out shapes.

Step 6: Second Rise

Place shaped doughnuts on parchment paper-lined baking sheets. Cover them again with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 7: Frying

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Carefully fry each doughnut until golden brown on both sides—about 2–3 minutes per side.

Step 8: Prepare Filling

While cooling on racks, mix together cream cheese spread with powdered sugar and heavy cream in a mixing bowl until fluffy.

Step 9: Fill the Doughnuts

Use a piping bag fitted with a nozzle to fill each fried doughnut with the pumpkin spice cheesecake filling.

Step 10: Finish with Toppings

Dust filled doughnuts with granulated sugar mixed with additional pumpkin pie spice before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

Pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving options. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or enjoying a cozy morning at home, these doughnuts can be paired with various accompaniments to elevate the experience.

Pair with Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee complements the rich flavors of the doughnuts perfectly, enhancing your taste experience.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light, creamy texture that balances the pumpkin spice filling beautifully.

Add a Side of Fruit

• Fresh fruit like apple slices or berries offer a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the doughnuts, making them a delightful addition.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce brings an extra layer of flavor and decadence, making each bite irresistible.

Enjoy with Ice Cream

• Pair these doughnuts with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert that combines warm and cold sensations.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Arrange your pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts on a platter alongside other fall-inspired treats for an inviting dessert spread.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

Making perfect pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your doughnuts turn out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh spices and ingredients for the best flavor. Stale spices can dull the taste of your doughnuts.

• Knead Properly: Ensure you knead the dough well until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps create that fluffy texture you want in your doughnuts.

• Let It Rise: Don’t rush the rising process. Allowing the dough to rise adequately will result in light and airy doughnuts.

• Monitor Oil Temperature: Check that your frying oil is at the right temperature before frying. Too hot or too cool can affect cooking time and texture.

• Use Sifted Powdered Sugar: Sifting powdered sugar before use ensures it blends smoothly into any toppings or fillings, giving a nicer finish.

• Cool Before Filling: Make sure your doughnuts have cooled completely before adding the cheesecake filling. This prevents melting and maintains texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

These pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts can be complemented by various side dishes, enhancing their flavors while providing balance. Here are some great options:

1. Cinnamon Apple Compote
   Warm cinnamon apples add sweetness and tartness, creating an excellent pairing with your doughnuts.

2. Maple Syrup
   A side of pure maple syrup provides a natural sweetness that enhances the pumpkin flavor in the doughnuts.

3. Chai Tea
   The spicy warmth of chai tea pairs wonderfully with these rich treats, making for a comforting beverage option.

4. Pecan Pie Bites
   These mini pecan pies offer crunchiness that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts.

5. Cream Cheese Frosting Dip
   A small bowl of sweet cream cheese frosting serves as a delightful dip, adding extra indulgence to each bite.

6. Pumpkin Soup
   A warm bowl of pumpkin soup makes for a cozy combination that celebrates fall flavors in style.

7. Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy sweet potato fries add savory notes while maintaining that autumn vibe, making for an interesting side dish choice.

8. Hot Chocolate
   Rich hot chocolate provides warmth and sweetness, complementing the spiced flavors present in the doughnuts perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can help ensure your pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts turn out perfectly. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough doughnuts. Mix until just combined for a lighter texture.
• Using expired yeast: Old yeast won’t rise properly. Always check the expiration date before use.
• Skipping the chilling time: Not allowing the dough to chill can result in greasy doughnuts. Chill for at least an hour for best results.
• Frying at the wrong temperature: Oil that’s too hot or too cold can ruin your doughnuts. Use a thermometer to maintain 350°F (175°C).
• Not sifting powdered sugar: Lumps in powdered sugar can affect the glaze texture. Sift it before mixing for a smooth finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

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

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts?

Pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts are fluffy, yeast-raised doughnuts filled with a creamy pumpkin spice cheesecake filling and dusted with pumpkin spice sugar.

How do I know when my doughnuts are done frying?

Doughnuts are done when they float to the surface and are golden brown on both sides. A thermometer should read 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying.

Can I make these Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and fill them one day in advance. Just store them properly before frying.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can make your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice in equal parts.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts are a delightful treat perfect for fall gatherings or cozy mornings at home. Their versatility allows you to customize them with different fillings or toppings. Try making them today and enjoy the warm flavors of autumn!