Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts

If there’s one dessert that feels like a hug in pastry form, it’s a donut—but what if you could make it even better? Enter Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts: soft, fluffy, baked donuts filled with a creamy peanut butter cheesecake center, topped with a shiny glaze and optional crushed peanuts or a drizzle of melted peanut butter. These donuts are indulgent, comforting, and perfect for mornings, dessert tables, or even as a special treat for friends and family.

Baking donuts at home might sound intimidating, but with the right approach and a little patience, you can create bakery-quality treats in your own kitchen. The combination of a rich peanut butter cheesecake filling and sweet glaze makes these donuts truly irresistible, while the soft, slightly sweet dough ensures they’re light enough to enjoy without feeling heavy.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or a home cook eager to experiment, this recipe will guide you through every step, from proofing the yeast to piping the creamy filling.

Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts

• Bakery-Quality at Home: Enjoy a gourmet donut experience without leaving your kitchen.
• Peanut Butter Heaven: Creamy, rich filling balances perfectly with soft baked dough.
• Customizable Toppings: Glaze, chopped peanuts, or melted peanut butter drizzle add texture and flavor.
• Fun to Make: Rolling, cutting, and filling donuts is as satisfying as eating them.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: No meat or gelatin, so perfect for a wide range of diets.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Birthday brunch, dessert plates, or a weekend treat.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe yields 12 donuts, each generously filled and glazed.

Donut Dough

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the soft, slightly chewy base.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Adds subtle sweetness.
• 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (or active dry yeast) – Leavening agent to make the dough rise.
• 1/2 tsp salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F) – Activates the yeast and softens the dough.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and tenderness.
• 1 large egg – Structure and moisture.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Aromatic sweetness.

Cheesecake Filling

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Creamy, smooth texture.
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter – Rich, nutty flavor.
• 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the filling.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor.
• 1–2 tbsp heavy cream or milk (optional) – Adjusts consistency for piping.

Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweet and smooth topping.
• 2–3 tbsp milk or water – Thins glaze for dipping.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – Adds aromatic flavor.

Optional Garnishes

• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts – Adds crunch and texture.
• Melted peanut butter for drizzle – Enhances the peanut butter flavor profile.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls (for dry and wet ingredients)
• Whisk and spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Donut cutter or two round cutters (small and large for holes)
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Piping bag with small round tip
• Small bowl for glaze
• Spoon or small spatula for spreading glaze

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Yeast

If using active dry yeast, dissolve it in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it bloom until foamy, about 5 minutes. If using instant yeast, it can be mixed directly with dry ingredients.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk egg with softened butter and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the yeast mixture and wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, approximately 8 minutes by hand or 5 minutes using a stand mixer.

Step 3: First Rise

Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, roughly 1 to 1.5 hours. This step is crucial for achieving light, airy donuts.

Step 4: Cut the Donuts

Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/3 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters to cut out the donuts and holes. Place donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let rest for 20 minutes for a second rise.

Step 5: Bake the Donuts

Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake donuts for 10–12 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from the oven and cool completely before filling.

Step 6: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Beat cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Thin with 1–2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk if needed to achieve a pipe-able consistency.

Step 7: Fill the Donuts

Use a piping bag fitted with a small round tip to fill each donut from the side or bottom with the peanut butter cheesecake mixture.

Step 8: Make the Glaze

Combine powdered sugar, milk or water, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 9: Glaze and Garnish

Dip the tops of filled donuts into the glaze, letting excess drip off. Sprinkle chopped peanuts and/or drizzle melted peanut butter while the glaze is still wet. Let the donuts set for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Adjust Sweetness: Add more or less powdered sugar in the filling to taste.
• Alternative Nut Butters: Almond butter or cashew butter can replace peanut butter for a unique flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend suitable for yeast baking.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute cream cheese and milk with plant-based alternatives.
• Flavor Additions: Fold in mini chocolate chips or a touch of cinnamon into the filling.

Flavor Profile & Texture

These donuts are soft and tender, with a slight chewiness from the enriched dough. The cheesecake filling adds creamy, rich, nutty sweetness, complemented by the glossy glaze. Chopped peanuts add crunch, while melted peanut butter drizzle reinforces the peanut flavor. The combination delivers a balanced taste experience—rich, sweet, nutty, and indulgent.

Nutritional Overview (Per Donut)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	250 kcal
Sugar	15 g
Fat	10 g
Saturated Fat	4 g
Unsaturated Fat	5 g
Carbohydrates	34 g
Fiber	1 g
Protein	5 g
Cholesterol	30 mg
Sodium	150 mg

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly; contains gluten and dairy. Use plant-based alternatives for dairy-free and gluten-free versions.

Make-Ahead & Storage

• Dough Prep: Dough can be prepared and refrigerated overnight. Bring to room temperature before shaping.
• Filling Prep: Cheesecake filling can be made 1 day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
• Glazing: Prepare glaze immediately before serving to ensure shiny coating.
• Storage: Store filled and glazed donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. Refrigerate up to 2 days if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can these donuts be fried instead of baked?
Yes! Heat oil to 350°F and fry for 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Adjust baking time if frying.

2. Can I make mini donuts?
Absolutely! Reduce baking time to 8–10 minutes. Mini donuts are perfect for parties.

3. How do I prevent the cheesecake filling from being runny?
Ensure cream cheese is fully softened and gradually incorporate powdered sugar. Chill filling slightly before piping.

4. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, but expect small peanut pieces in the filling. Smooth peanut butter creates a creamier consistency.

5. Are these suitable for freezing?
Freeze baked, unfilled donuts for up to 1 month. Thaw, then fill and glaze before serving.

Pro Baking Tips

• Proof yeast in a warm, draft-free area for consistent rise.
• Use room-temperature butter and eggs to help dough come together smoothly.
• Allow donuts to cool completely before filling to prevent melting the filling.
• For a glossy glaze, dip donuts while slightly warm but not hot.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cream Cheese: Provides tangy, smooth, creamy base for the filling. Use full-fat cream cheese for best texture.

Peanut Butter: Adds nutty richness. Choose natural peanut butter with minimal oil separation for consistent filling.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with coffee or milk for breakfast or brunch.
• Great addition to dessert platters, celebrations, or gifts.
• Pair with fresh fruit for balance.

Expanded Conclusion

Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts combine two indulgent desserts into one showstopping treat. From the soft, airy donut to the creamy peanut butter cheesecake filling and sweet glaze, every bite is a celebration of texture and flavor. Perfect for baking enthusiasts and peanut butter lovers alike, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet dessert experience at home.

With careful preparation, these donuts will become a favorite for special occasions, weekend treats, or brunch menus. Bake them fresh, enjoy the creamy filling, and don’t forget to share—they’re too good to keep to yourself!

Print