Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts

Name: Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (or active dry yeast); 1/2 tsp salt; 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F); 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1-2 tbsp heavy cream or milk (optional); 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze); 2-3 tbsp milk or water (for glaze); 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze); 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional); Melted peanut butter for drizzle (optional)

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: November 23, 2025

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Introduction to Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts

Hey there, fellow busy moms and professionals! I know how hectic our days can get, and sometimes we just need a little sweet escape. That’s where these Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts come into play! They’re not just a treat; they’re a celebration of that glorious combination of peanut butter and cheesecake we all crave. Imagine surprising your loved ones with these delightful treats or enjoying one (or two!) yourself while sipping coffee on a lazy morning. With this easy recipe, you’ll find that a little indulgence doesn’t have to be a time-consuming affair!

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts

These Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. In just a little over an hour, you can whip up a dozen fluffy donuts that are perfect for any occasion. Their delightful cheesecake filling and sweet glaze make them irresistible. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, so you can enjoy this sweet indulgence with less guilt. Trust me, your taste buds will be dancing!

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts

Gathering the right ingredients is key to whipping up these delicious Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts. Let’s take a peek at what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: The base of our donuts, providing that fluffy texture we all love. You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Granulated sugar: For sweetness that balances with the rich peanut butter and cream cheese.
Instant yeast or active dry yeast: This little ingredient works miracles, making our donuts rise and become airy. If you can’t find instant yeast, active dry yeast will work just fine!
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and brings everything together.
Warm milk: Adds moisture and helps activate the yeast. Make sure it’s around 110°F, just warm to the touch—too hot can kill the yeast.
Unsalted butter: Offers richness and moisture. You could substitute this with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Large egg: Binds everything together while adding a lovely richness.
Vanilla extract: Because who doesn’t love that warm vanilla aroma that elevates any sweet treat?
Cream cheese: The star of our filling! It gives that luscious cheesecake texture and flavor. Make sure it’s softened so it blends smoothly.
Creamy peanut butter: It’s peanut butter, need I say more? This is what brings that classic flavor to our donuts.
Powdered sugar: For sweetness in our filling and glaze. You may want to adjust the amount based on your personal preference.
Heavy cream or milk (optional): This helps to thin out the filling to the perfect consistency. Use whichever you have on hand.
Chopped peanuts (optional): A tasty garnish that adds a lovely crunch and extra peanut flavor!
Melted peanut butter for drizzle (optional): Because sometimes, you just need a little extra indulgence!

You can find the exact quantities at the bottom of this article, perfect for printing out when you’re ready to bake! Happy cooking!

How to Make Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts

Now let’s dive into the fun part—making these Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of delightful treats in no time!

Prepare the Dough

Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. In another bowl, combine warm milk, softened butter, the large egg, and vanilla extract. If you’re using active dry yeast, mix it with the warm milk and a pinch of sugar and let it foam for about five minutes. Once it’s bubbly, add it to the flour mixture. Combine these wet ingredients with the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8 minutes by hand or 5 if you’re using a mixer. You want it to be smooth and elastic—this will help our donuts rise beautifully!

Let It Rise

Now is the crucial moment: letting the dough rise! Place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean dish towel, and let it sit in a warm spot. This will allow the yeast to work its magic, creating that light, fluffy texture we adore in donuts. The dough should double in size in about 1 to 1.5 hours. So, take a break, grab a cup of coffee, and let the yeast do its thing!

Shape the Donuts

Once your dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/3 inch thick. Now comes the fun part: using a donut cutter or two round cutters, cut out your donuts and holes. Arrange these on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure to leave some space between them. Let them rest for another 20 minutes so they can puff up a bit more. Patience is key here!

Bake the Donuts

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Once the donuts have rested, pop them in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should become golden brown and spring back when gently pressed. The lovely aroma wafting through your kitchen will make it hard to wait!

Make the Filling

While the donuts are baking, let’s whip up that creamy peanut butter cheesecake filling. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and the remaining vanilla extract, mixing until the desired sweetness is achieved. If it’s too thick, thin it out with a little heavy cream or milk until you get a pipe-able consistency.

Fill the Donuts

Once the donuts are completely cool, it’s time to fill them! Grab a piping bag fitted with a small round tip. Carefully insert the tip into the side or bottom of each donut and fill them with the creamy cheesecake-peanut butter mixture. You’ll want to feel them get a little heavier—this means they’re stuffed with deliciousness!

Glaze and Garnish

To create the sweet glaze, mix powdered sugar with a splash of milk or water and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip the tops of each filled donut into the glaze, letting the excess drip off. While the glaze remains wet, sprinkle some chopped peanuts for a lovely crunch and drizzle with melted peanut butter for that extra oomph! Let them set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade delights!

Tips for Success

Always use warm milk (about 110°F); this activates the yeast.
Don’t skip the second rise; it ensures fluffy donuts.
Use softened ingredients for a smooth filling.
Let the donuts cool completely before filling to avoid a melty mess.
Tap the donut lightly after glazing to remove excess glaze.
Feel free to adjust toppings based on your taste preferences.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: At least two; choose glass or stainless steel for easy cleaning.
Donut cutter: If you don’t have one, use two different-sized round cutters.
Piping bag: A resealable plastic bag with a corner cut works just as well!
Baking sheet: A lined cookie sheet makes cleanup a breeze.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect donut texture.

Variations

Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free treat.
Dairy-free version: Use dairy-free cream cheese and nut butter to make it suitable for a dairy-free diet.
Chocolate lovers: Add cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolaty twist or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
Fruit-filled donuts: Swap the filling for a berry cheesecake blend for a fruity alternative.
Spiced flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a rich cup of coffee or a creamy latte for a delightful breakfast treat.
Serve alongside fresh berries or sliced bananas for a touch of fruitiness.
Present on a colorful platter, drizzling with extra melted peanut butter for an eye-catching display.
Dust with cocoa powder for a contrast against the glaze.
Serve as a dessert after dinner—perfect for impressing guests!

FAQs about Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts

Can I make these Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the donuts the day before and fill them just before serving. This way, they’ll maintain their freshness and taste!

What should I do if my donut dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, check the yeast! It might be expired or the milk too hot. The perfect rising temperature is around 110°F, just warm to the touch.

How do I store leftover donuts?
Store any leftover Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Can I freeze these donuts?
Yes, you can freeze the unfilled donuts! Just let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag.

What if I don’t have a piping bag?
No worries at all! You can use a resealable plastic bag with one corner snipped off. It works perfectly for filling your donuts!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about whipping up a batch of Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts. From the moment you mix the dough to the first heavenly bite, it’s a delightful journey filled with rich flavors and warmth. Sharing them with family and friends not only creates sweet memories but also fills the kitchen with laughter and joy. Whether it’s for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a special treat, these donuts are sure to be a hit. So gather your loved ones, embrace the sweet moments, and enjoy every delicious bite of these creamy, peanut buttery delights!