Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts

Fluffy and indulgent, Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts are the perfect treat for any occasion. These delightful doughnuts are not only filled with a creamy pumpkin cheesecake filling but are also tossed in a sweet pumpkin spice sugar that enhances their flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a cozy day at home, these brioche doughnuts will surely impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cheesecake creates a rich and satisfying taste that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These doughnuts are great for gatherings, holidays, or as a delightful snack.
• Homemade Goodness: Making them from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and create something truly special.
• Fun to Make: The process of frying doughnuts is enjoyable and rewarding, especially when you see the final result.
• Versatile Treat: You can easily adjust the spices or fillings to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts, gather all your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Doughnut cutter
• Frying pan or deep fryer

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading the dough easier, producing a soft and fluffy texture.
• Doughnut cutter: Helps shape the doughnuts uniformly for even frying.
• Frying pan or deep fryer: Ensures optimal cooking temperature for crispy outsides and soft insides.

Ingredients

To create these delightful Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Doughnuts

• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 250g whole milk, lukewarm
• 4 Tbsp (50g) sugar
• 565g all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 eggs, at room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
• 100g unsalted butter, at room temperature
• Neutral Oil for Frying

For the Coating

• 200g granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice

For the Filling

• 280g pumpkin puree (use 200g reduced in the filling)
• 450g cream cheese, softened
• 100g powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla bean paste
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
• Pinch salt

How to Make Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, combine lukewarm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
2. In a stand mixer bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add eggs, vanilla bean paste, and yeast mixture.
3. Mix on low speed until combined. Gradually add butter while mixing until dough is smooth and elastic.

Step 2: Let It Rise

1. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap.
2. Allow it to rise in a warm area until it doubles in size (about 1 hour).

Step 3: Shape the Doughnuts

1. Punch down the risen dough on a floured surface. Roll it out to about 1-inch thickness.
2. Use a doughnut cutter to cut out shapes. Place them on parchment paper-lined trays.

Step 4: Second Rise

1. Cover shaped doughnuts with a cloth; let them rise again for about 30 minutes until puffy.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Add pumpkin puree, vanilla bean paste, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt; mix well.

Step 6: Fry Doughnuts

1. Heat neutral oil in a frying pan over medium heat (around 350°F).
2. Carefully fry each doughnut until golden brown on both sides (about 2 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.

Step 7: Coat & Fill

1. Mix granulated sugar with pumpkin pie spice in a shallow dish. Toss warm doughnuts in this mixture.
2. Using a piping bag fitted with a round tip, fill each doughnut with pumpkin cheesecake filling.

Enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts fresh! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or as an indulgent treat just for you!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts

These delightful Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy gathering or a festive celebration, serving them with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience.

With Warm Coffee

• A steaming cup of coffee pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the doughnuts, balancing their richness and enhancing the flavors.

As Dessert with Whipped Cream

• Top these doughnuts with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an extra layer of creamy goodness that complements the cheesecake filling.

At Breakfast with Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside a selection of fresh fruits like berries or sliced apples to add a refreshing contrast to the sweet doughnuts.

With Ice Cream

• For a decadent treat, serve warm doughnuts with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream, creating a delightful mix of textures and temperatures.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts

Achieving the perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Use these suggestions to ensure your doughnuts turn out fluffy and delicious.

• Use Lukewarm Milk: Ensure your milk is lukewarm when activating yeast; this helps in achieving that light, airy texture.
• Knead Thoroughly: Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for fluffy brioche.
• Allow Proper Rising Time: Let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size. This fermentation process enhances flavor and texture.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep frying oil at the right temperature (around 350°F/175°C) to prevent greasy doughnuts and ensure they cook evenly.
• Coat Right After Frying: Toss in pumpkin spice sugar immediately after frying while they’re still warm for better adherence and flavor infusion.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts

These pumpkin-filled treats can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some excellent options.

1. Chai Tea: A spicy chai tea adds warmth and pairs beautifully with the pumpkin flavors.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the sweet doughnuts.
3. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of rich maple syrup brings additional sweetness and ties together the autumn flavors.
4. Caramel Sauce: Serve alongside warm caramel sauce for dipping; it provides a deliciously indulgent touch.
5. Cheese Board: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese on a cheese board for a savory balance to the sweetness.
6. Savory Sausages: A platter of turkey or chicken sausages adds protein and complements the sweet profile of the doughnuts nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts even better. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using the wrong measurements can lead to doughnuts that are too dense or too airy. Always use a kitchen scale for precision.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for fluffy doughnuts. Don’t rush this step; patience pays off with a light texture.
• Frying at the wrong temperature: If your oil is too hot or too cold, it can affect cooking and flavor. Use a thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature around 350°F (175°C).
• Overfilling the doughnuts: When filling your doughnuts, it’s easy to overdo it. Aim for a moderate amount of filling to prevent them from bursting during frying.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can hinder proper mixing and rising. Always bring ingredients to room temperature before starting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• These doughnuts will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts

• Wrap each doughnut individually in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped doughnuts in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm doughnuts for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: In a non-stick pan over low heat, warm each side for about 1-2 minutes until just heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts that may help you as you prepare this delightful treat.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

You can use pumpkin pie filling, but it contains added spices and sweeteners that may alter the flavor profile of your Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts.

How can I customize my Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or different spices according to your taste preferences. Experimenting with flavors makes each batch unique!

How long does it take to make Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts?

The total time is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, including preparation and cooking times.

Can I make these doughnuts ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight, then fry fresh doughnuts when you’re ready.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Doughnuts are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. The fluffy texture combined with creamy pumpkin cheesecake makes them a delightful treat any time of day. Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite spices or toppings to make them uniquely yours!