Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts with Cream Cheese Filling

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are a delightful fall treat, combining the warm spices of pumpkin pie with a creamy filling. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack, these donuts are sure to impress.

Ingredients

• For the Donuts:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• ¾ cup canned pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup melted butter
• For the Cream Cheese Filling:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine Mixtures:
   Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fill Donut Pan:
   Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
6. Bake:
   Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into a donut comes out clean. Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Prepare Cream Cheese Filling:
   Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip.
8. Fill Donuts:
   Cut a small slit in each donut and pipe the cream cheese filling into the center.
9. Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
   Combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Brush each filled donut with melted butter, then roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 12 donuts. The prep time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of around 15 minutes, bringing the total time to about 35 minutes.

Variations

• Glazed Donuts: Instead of cinnamon sugar, dip the cooled donuts in a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
• Add-ins: Incorporate chocolate chips or nuts into the batter for added texture.
• Spiced Sugar: Experiment with different spices in the sugar coating, like cardamom or allspice, for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To enjoy them warm, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin?
   Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but make sure it’s well-drained.
2. Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
   Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
3. What if I don’t have a donut pan?
   You can use a muffin tin, but baking time will vary.
4. Can I freeze the donuts?
   Yes, freeze them before coating. Thaw and coat when ready to eat.
5. How can I tell when the donuts are done?
   A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
6. Can I use different types of oil?
   Yes, any neutral oil can be used in place of vegetable oil.
7. What if my dough is too thick?
   If the batter is too thick, add a splash more buttermilk to loosen it.
8. Can I omit the cream cheese filling?
   Yes, the donuts are delicious even without the filling!
9. How do I make the batter lighter?
   Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep it light and fluffy.
10. What can I serve with these donuts?
    They pair well with coffee, hot chocolate, or a side of fresh fruit.

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts with Cream Cheese Filling are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. Soft, sweet, and warmly spiced, they make for a perfect treat any time of day. Enjoy the rich taste and creamy filling that will surely please any crowd!

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