Introduction

As autumn settles in with its crisp air and vibrant foliage, there's no better way to celebrate the season than with a delightful treat that encapsulates the warmth of pumpkin spice. These doughnuts marry the indulgence of cheesecake with the cozy flavors of pumpkin, offering a perfect balance between rich and sweet, with a warm spice kick.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a fluffy, tender doughnut that has a creamy cheesecake center, infused with cinnamon and nutmeg. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the fryer or slightly cooled with a gentle dusting of sugar, these Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts are sure to be a hit at any gathering, or even a treat just for yourself.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
This forms the base of the doughnuts, providing structure. All-purpose flour balances strength and tenderness, making your doughnuts fluffy yet sturdy enough to hold the creamy filling.
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
Pumpkin not only lends a rich flavor but also contributes moisture to the dough, ensuring a soft texture. Its natural sweetness complements the spices and adds depth to each bite.
1 cup granulated sugar
Sugar adds sweetness, which is essential to offset the spices. It also aids in the browning process during frying, giving the doughnuts an appealing golden hue.
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
This is the star of the filling, adding a rich and creamy texture. Cream cheese contributes a slight tang that balances the sweetness from the sugar, enhancing the overall flavor.
1/2 cup buttermilk
Buttermilk adds moisture and helps activate the baking soda, leading to a lighter doughnut. It also imparts a subtle tang that complements the spices beautifully.
2 large eggs
Eggs help bind the ingredients together, providing structure and stability. They also contribute to the moisture and richness of the doughnut.
2 teaspoons baking powder
Baking powder acts as a leavening agent, helping the doughnuts rise and become light. It's crucial for achieving that delightful fluffy texture.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
A quintessential spice in pumpkin recipes, cinnamon adds warmth and sweetness, enhancing the nostalgic flavors of fall.
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Nutmeg provides a slightly nutty and warm flavor that complements the pumpkin and cinnamon, rounding out the overall spice profile.
1/4 teaspoon salt
Salt is essential for balancing flavors. It enhances the sweetness while also elevating the overall taste of the doughnut.
Vegetable oil for frying
Oil is necessary for frying the doughnuts, allowing them to get crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside. Choosing an oil with a high smoke point is essential for optimal frying.
Powdered sugar for dusting
Powdered sugar adds a light sweetness and enhances the visual appeal of the doughnuts. It provides a lovely contrast to the spices and complements the creaminess of the cheesecake filling.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the doughnut batter

Start by whisking together the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt—in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the canned pumpkin, buttermilk, and eggs. Mixing the dry and wet ingredients separately ensures even distribution of leavening and spices, resulting in a uniform dough that rises beautifully.

Step 2: Combine wet and dry ingredients

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix; this will help achieve a soft and fluffy doughnut. The dough should be thick but still pourable, reminiscent of pancake batter.

Step 3: Prepare the cheesecake filling

In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. This filling provides the creamy center that contrasts nicely with the fluffy doughnut. Ensure it’s well-mixed to avoid any lumps, which can affect the texture and mouthfeel.

Step 4: Pipe the filling into doughnuts

Once the doughnuts are fried and cooled, fill a piping bag fitted with a long tip with the cheesecake filling. Insert the tip into the side of the doughnut and gently squeeze to fill. This technique ensures each bite is packed with delicious creaminess, making the doughnut a sumptuous treat.

Step 5: Heat the oil and fry doughnuts

In a deep pot, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, frying until golden brown on both sides. Frying at the right temperature ensures the doughnuts are crispy outside while remaining soft and tender inside.

Step 6: Dust with powdered sugar

As soon as the fried doughnuts are cool enough to handle, generously dust each with powdered sugar. This not only adds a pleasing sweetness but also enhances their aesthetic appeal. Make sure to coat them evenly so every bite feels indulgent.

Mouthwatering Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts step photo

Frying Tips for Perfect Doughnuts

To achieve the perfect doughnut, maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial. A thermometer can be your best friend here; too hot, and the doughnuts will burn; too cool, and they will absorb excess oil, becoming greasy. Fry in small batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature too drastically, ensuring a consistent cooking process.

Choosing the Right Pumpkin

While canned pumpkin puree is convenient and provides great flavor, you can also use fresh pumpkin. If opting for fresh, roast a sugar pumpkin to bring out its natural sweetness and then puree. This can yield a fresher taste profile, making your doughnuts truly stand out during autumn festivities.

Enhancing the Classic Flavor

For an extra flavor twist, consider adding a pinch of ground ginger or allspice to the doughnut batter. This can elevate the warmth of the spices, creating a deeper and more complex flavor. Adding a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of chopped pecans atop the finished doughnuts also adds a delectable crunch and contrasting sweetness.

FAQs

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

If your batter is too thick, gradually add a bit more buttermilk until it reaches a thick, pourable consistency. Be careful not to overmix.

How can I prevent my doughnuts from being greasy?

Ensure the oil is at the right temperature, around 350°F (175°C), before frying. Frying in small batches can help maintain the temperature.

What can I do if my cheesecake filling is too runny?

If your filling is too runny, chill it in the refrigerator for a short while to firm it up. You can also add a little more powdered sugar to thicken it.

Can I flavor the dough with chocolate?

Yes! You can add cocoa powder to the flour mixture for a chocolate-flavored dough. Adjust the amount of sugar accordingly for balance.

How do I know when my doughnuts are done frying?

They should be golden brown on both sides and float to the surface. A simple test is to insert a toothpick; if it comes out clean, they are done.

What should I do if I overcooked the doughnuts?

If you find them overcooked, you can try glazing them with a simple sugar glaze to add sweetness and moisture, making them more enjoyable.

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Doughnuts are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of the season. Their combination of fluffy texture and creamy filling creates an unforgettable indulgence that is perfect for special occasions or simple afternoons at home.

So, gather your ingredients, embrace the autumn vibes, and treat yourself to these delicious doughnuts. They are a wonderful way to bring the warmth and comfort of fall into your kitchen.

Recipe Card

Print Pin