Introduction

As autumn approaches and the air grows crisp, the craving for warm, comforting desserts intensifies. One treat that perfectly encapsulates the season is the pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnut. Combining the rich flavors of creamy cheesecake with the warm, spiced notes of pumpkin, these doughnuts are a fall favorite that no home cook should miss.

Whether you serve them warm with a cup of coffee or as a delightful dessert, pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts are sure to impress. They're easy to make and utilize simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The process offers a wonderful opportunity to engage with family and friends while celebrating the flavors of the season.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
All-purpose flour forms the base structure of the doughnut. It provides the necessary gluten to give the doughnut its characteristic light and airy texture while allowing it to hold up to the cream cheese filling.
1 cup granulated sugar
Sugar adds sweetness and helps to create a moist texture by absorbing moisture in the dough. It also plays a crucial role in the browning process when the doughnuts are baked, enhancing their flavor.
2 teaspoons baking powder
Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the doughnuts rise while baking. This results in a light and fluffy interior that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake filling.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cinnamon provides that warm, familiar flavor associated with pumpkin spice. It complements the other spices and adds a fragrant aroma to the doughnuts.
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Nutmeg enhances the flavor profile by introducing a slightly sweet and nutty taste. This spice is essential for achieving that classic pumpkin spice blend.
½ teaspoon ginger
Ginger adds a subtle heat and depth to the flavor combination. This spice perfectly rounds out the warming characteristics of the other spices used.
¼ teaspoon salt
Salt elevates the overall flavor in any recipe by balancing sweetness. It also helps to strengthen the gluten structure in baked goods.
1 cup pumpkin puree
Pumpkin puree adds moisture and a rich pumpkin flavor that defines the dish. It's vital for achieving that distinctive autumn taste and vibrant color.
1 large egg
Eggs are crucial for binding the ingredients together while adding richness to the doughnuts. They also aid in leavening, contributing to the light texture.
½ cup buttermilk
Buttermilk provides acidity, which reacts with the baking powder to create lift in the doughnuts. It also adds a slight tang, enhancing the overall flavor.
6 oz cream cheese
Cream cheese is the star of the cheesecake filling, giving it a smooth, velvety texture. Its richness contrasts beautifully with the spiced dough.
½ cup powdered sugar
Powdered sugar sweetens the cream cheese filling and helps it achieve a thicker, creamier consistency. It provides that familiar frosting-like taste.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla extract brings a warm and inviting flavor to the cream cheese filling. It enhances other flavors and rounds out the sweetness.
1 tablespoon pumpkin spice
Pumpkin spice, a blend of warm spices, ties the flavors of the doughnut and filling together, enhancing the seasonal theme of the treat.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Preheating the oven ensures that the doughnuts bake evenly and rise properly as soon as they enter the heat. This is a crucial step that greatly affects the texture and overall quality of the doughnuts.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until well combined.

Whisking the dry ingredients together ensures that the leavening agent and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This step is essential for achieving a consistent flavor and texture in every bite.

Step 3: In another bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, egg, and buttermilk until smooth and well combined.

Mixing the wet ingredients thoroughly is important to create a homogenous mixture. This ensures that the pumpkin flavor is evenly integrated, leading to a beautifully balanced doughnut.

Step 4: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to over mix.

Overmixing can lead to tough doughnuts due to the development of gluten. Mixing until just combined ensures a lighter texture, creating that perfect tender crumb you're aiming for.

Step 5: Spray a doughnut pan with non-stick cooking spray.

Coating the pan with non-stick spray is essential to prevent the doughnuts from sticking, allowing them to release easily after baking. This guarantees a perfect shape and prevents any damage to the surface of the doughnut.

Step 6: Fill each doughnut cavity about halfway with the batter.

Filling the cavities halfway allows room for the doughnuts to rise while baking. This is crucial for achieving the right shape and preventing overflow, which could create a messy oven.

Step 7: Bake the doughnuts in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Baking for the right amount of time is vital for doneness. A toothpick test ensures that the doughnuts are cooked through without being dry, maintaining their moist texture.

Step 8: While the doughnuts are baking, prepare the cheesecake filling by beating the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

This step is important for achieving a creamy, spreadable filling. Beating the mixture until smooth ensures there are no lumps, resulting in a delightful cream cheese experience.

Step 9: Let the doughnuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooling the doughnuts allows them to set properly while preventing sogginess. Transferring them to a wire rack ensures even airflow, avoiding a moist texture on the bottom.

Step 10: Once cooled, use a piping bag to fill each doughnut with the cheesecake mixture.

Using a piping bag ensures that each doughnut is filled evenly without making a mess. This step is key to achieving that delicious surprise filling that pairs perfectly with the spiced dough.

Step 11: For an extra touch, dust the filled doughnuts with the remaining powdered sugar or a sprinkle of pumpkin spice before serving.

Dusting with sugar or pumpkin spice not only enhances the visual appeal of the doughnuts but also adds an additional layer of flavor. This final touch elevates the dessert, making it truly festive.

Mouthwatering Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts step photo

Elevate Your Doughnut Game

These pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts are not just a treat, they are an experience. The marriage of moist, spiced dough with a rich cheesecake filling transforms a simple dessert into a seasonal delight. With every bite, you'll enjoy the perfect balance of flavors, making your homemade doughnuts the star of any gathering, from casual brunches to festive fall celebrations.

Perfect for Sharing

Doughnuts are inherently shareable, and these pumpkin spice cheesecake varieties are no exception. Their nostalgic flavors resonate with everyone, making them ideal for holiday parties or cozy gatherings. Prepare a batch to bring warmth and joy to your friends and family, turning any occasion into a delightful celebration of seasonal flavors.

Customization Options Galore

Feel free to make this recipe your own by experimenting with different flavors or toppings. Consider adding chocolate chips to the batter or drizzling the finished doughnuts with caramel for an additional indulgent touch. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless creativity, ensuring that your pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts are uniquely yours.

FAQs

What should I do if my doughnut batter is too thick?

If your batter is too thick, consider adding a tablespoon of milk into the mixture to help achieve a smoother consistency. This will also aid in achieving a better rise during baking.

How can I tell when my doughnuts are overcooked?

Overcooked doughnuts tend to become dry and hard to the touch. Additionally, they may have a darker color than expected. To avoid this, closely monitor them as they bake and perform the toothpick test.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes, fresh pumpkin can be used, but ensure it is properly cooked and pureed to achieve a similar consistency to canned puree. It may require some additional effort to prepare.

What if I want to make these without cream cheese?

You can substitute the cream cheese filling with a simple vanilla custard or a thick pastry cream for a different flavor profile if cream cheese isn't preferred.

How can I prevent my doughnuts from sinking in the middle?

Make sure the dough is well-mixed but avoid overmixing, which can develop too much gluten. Also, ensure your oven is fully preheated for consistent baking.

Can I add chocolate chips into the batter?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can provide a delightful contrast to the spiced flavors, offering a delicious twist to the traditional doughnut.

Conclusion

Making mouthwatering pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts at home is an enjoyable adventure that captures the essence of fall. Each bite delivers a comforting mix of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.

So why not gather your ingredients and start this scrumptious journey? With a little bit of effort, you can impress friends and family with delightful treats that are both flavorful and fun to make. Happy baking!

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