Cinnamon Cheesecake Donuts (Print-Friendly Version)

Tender donuts with velvety cheesecake filling and a fragrant cinnamon sugar coating for a warm, cozy treat.

# Ingredients:

→ Cheesecake Filling

01 - 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

→ Dough

04 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 1/4 cup full-fat cream cheese, softened
06 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
07 - 1 large egg, at room temperature
08 - 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
09 - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (Type 405 equivalent)
10 - 1 tsp baking powder
11 - 1/4 tsp fine salt

→ Cinnamon Sugar Coating

12 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
13 - 2 tsp freshly ground cinnamon

# Steps:

01 - Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Drop teaspoon-sized portions onto parchment paper and freeze for at least 1 hour until firm to prevent leakage during baking.
02 - Cream together softened butter and cream cheese until fluffy. Add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract and mix until fully combined. Sift flour, baking powder, and salt; gently fold into wet ingredients to form a soft dough.
03 - Divide dough into equal portions. Flatten each piece slightly, place a frozen cheesecake filling ball in the center, and carefully seal around it. Optionally, cut out a hole in the middle for a classic donut shape.
04 - Combine sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Roll each raw donut in the mixture to evenly coat, creating a churro-style crust after baking.
05 - Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Arrange coated donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until puffed and golden.
06 - Transfer donuts to a wire rack and cool at least 10 minutes to set the filling and avoid burns when biting. Best served fresh, optionally with coffee or cocoa.

# Notes & Tips:

01 - Freeze filling balls solid before shaping to prevent leaks. Store donuts in an airtight container refrigerated for 3-4 days or freeze after cooling for up to 2 months.
02 - Use full-fat cream cheese for optimal flavor and texture. Freshly grind cinnamon using freshly ground cinnamon for maximum aroma.