Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

Spice things up this fall with these pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts. They’re not just a treat for your taste buds; they also make the perfect addition to any gathering. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast, a festive dessert, or an indulgent snack, these doughnuts will impress everyone. The fluffy pumpkin brioche and rich cheesecake filling create a delightful experience that celebrates the flavors of autumn.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin spice and creamy cheesecake creates a decadent taste that’s perfect for fall.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them for breakfast, dessert, or as a sweet snack anytime you crave something special.
• Easy to Make: While they sound fancy, these pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts are straightforward to prepare with simple ingredients.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 14 servings, these doughnuts are ideal for parties, gatherings, or just sharing with family and friends.
• Festive Presentation: Dusted in pumpkin spice sugar, these doughnuts look as good as they taste!

Tools and Preparation

To make your pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts perfectly, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment. Gather what you need before starting to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or mixing bowls
• Doughnut cutter
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sifter
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly and achieving the right dough consistency.
• Doughnut cutter: Helps shape your doughnuts perfectly for even frying and uniform size.
• Frying pan or deep fryer: Necessary for frying the doughnuts evenly and achieving that perfect golden color.

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-ounce 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 dry ingredients well. In another bowl, whisk together the whole milk, large egg, egg yolk, canned pumpkin, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until combined. Gradually add in softened butter until fully incorporated. Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Let it Rise

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

Step 4: Shape Doughnuts

Once risen, punch down the dough. Roll it out to about half an inch thick on a floured surface. Use a doughnut cutter to cut out shapes. Place them on parchment paper to rest while heating oil.

Step 5: Heat Oil

In a deep frying pan or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry each doughnut until golden brown on both sides—about 2–3 minutes per side. Transfer cooked doughnuts onto a cooling rack.

Step 6: Prepare Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat together pumpkin spice cream cheese spread with heavy cream until light and fluffy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix well.

Step 7: Fill Doughnuts

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

Step 8: Finish with Sugar

In another bowl, combine granulated sugar with pumpkin pie spice. Roll each filled doughnut in this mixture for added sweetness before serving.

Enjoy your homemade pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

These pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts are perfect for a cozy fall gathering or a delightful breakfast treat. Their rich flavor pairs well with a variety of accompaniments, making them even more enjoyable.

Pair with Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee enhances the flavors of the doughnuts and makes for a comforting morning routine.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top for extra creaminess and a lovely presentation.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce adds sweetness and complements the pumpkin spice flavor beautifully.

Enjoy with Ice Cream

• Pair these doughnuts with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that everyone will love.

Accompany with Fresh Fruit

• Fresh apple slices or pears provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheesecake filling.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

Making these doughnuts just right requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts turn out perfectly every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensure your eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Knead properly – Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps create that fluffy texture we love in doughnuts.

• Don’t skip the resting period – Allowing the dough to rise properly is key to achieving light and airy doughnuts.

• Monitor oil temperature – Use a thermometer to maintain the frying oil at 350°F (175°C) for even cooking and crispiness.

• Sift powdered sugar – Sifting your powdered sugar helps eliminate lumps, ensuring a smooth finish when dusting your doughnuts.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

Pairing side dishes with your pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Chai Tea – The warm spices in chai complement the pumpkin flavors wonderfully, creating a cozy beverage pairing.

2. Apple Cider – Serve hot or cold; its sweetness and acidity balance out the rich flavor of the doughnut.

3. Maple Bacon – The savory crunch of bacon adds a delightful contrast, making each bite even more satisfying.

4. Nutty Granola – A side of crunchy granola can offer texture and health benefits while enhancing the fall theme.

5. Pumpkin Soup – For those who love pumpkin, soup is a warm complement that keeps with the seasonal vibe.

6. Cheese Platter – Include creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an elegant touch that pairs well with sweet flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve the best results with your pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold ingredients can affect the dough’s texture. Make sure your milk, eggs, and butter are at room temperature.
• Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough doughnuts. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make the dough dense. Use a kitchen scale or fluff the flour before spooning it into the measuring cup.
• Frying at incorrect temperature: Frying at too low or high temperatures can result in greasy or burnt doughnuts. Use a thermometer to maintain an even heat around 350°F (175°C).
• Skipping chilling time: Chilling the dough helps develop flavor and makes it easier to handle. Don’t rush this step!
• Neglecting proper storage: Leaving them uncovered will dry out your doughnuts. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

• Wrap each doughnut tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Warm each doughnut for about 10-15 seconds for a quick treat.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes to refresh their texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use other flavors instead of pumpkin spice?

Yes! You can experiment with different flavors like chocolate or vanilla, adjusting the spices accordingly.

How can I make these pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts healthier?

Consider using whole wheat flour and reducing sugar. You could also bake them instead of frying for a lighter option.

What is the best way to fill the doughnuts?

Using a piping bag fitted with a long tip allows you to fill each doughnut evenly without making a mess.

How do I know when my dough is ready?

The dough should be soft, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. It should pass the windowpane test, where you stretch a small piece without tearing.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin spice cheesecake doughnuts are perfect for fall gatherings or cozy mornings at home. Their delightful blend of flavors makes them irresistible! Feel free to customize them by adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. Don’t hesitate; try making these delicious treats today!