Name: Gingerbread Donuts with Eggnog Cheesecake Filling
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 3 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup (180ml) milk, warmed to ~110°F; 1/4 cup (55g) granulated sugar, divided; 2 1/2 tsp (9g) active dry yeast (or instant yeast); 1/4 cup (60g) Greek yogurt or sour cream, room temperature; 1/4 cup (75g) molasses; 1/2 cup (113g) salted butter, melted and slightly cooled; 2 eggs, room temperature; 1 tsp (4g) vanilla bean paste or extract; 4 cups (480g) bread flour (or all-purpose flour); 1 tsp (3g) salt; 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground cloves; Olive or avocado oil, for frying; 10oz (310g) cream cheese, room temperature; 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar; 1/4 cup (60ml) eggnog (or heavy cream); 1 tsp (4g) vanilla bean paste or extract; 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground ginger; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground cloves; 1 1/2 cups (330g) granulated sugar; Optional: 1 tsp ground nutmeg

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If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping treat that blends holiday warmth with a fun twist, these Gingerbread Donuts with Eggnog Cheesecake Filling are exactly what you need. Imagine soft, pillowy donuts, perfectly fried to a golden crisp, rolled in spiced sugar, and bursting with a creamy, tangy eggnog cheesecake filling that’s laced with seasonal spices. This delightful combination captures the essence of festive flavors and elevates traditional donuts to a whole new level. Whether for a cozy breakfast, a festive dessert, or a sweet gift for loved ones, these donuts are an irresistible slice of holiday magic.

Gingerbread Donuts with Eggnog Cheesecake Filling - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making these Gingerbread Donuts with Eggnog Cheesecake Filling truly shine. Each ingredient brings something special to the table, from the warm spices that define the gingerbread flavor to the creamy richness in the filling that makes each bite unforgettable.

Milk (3/4 cup, warmed): Acts as the perfect base to activate yeast and tenderize the dough for a soft texture.
Granulated sugar (1/4 cup plus 1 tbsp): Adds sweetness and feeds the yeast for a nice rise.
Active dry yeast (2 1/2 tsp): The magic that makes the dough rise fluffy and light.
Greek yogurt or sour cream (1/4 cup): Provides moisture and a slight tang to balance the molasses.
Molasses (1/4 cup): Imparts deep, rich color and that signature gingerbread flavor.
Salted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Gives richness and helps achieve the perfect tender crumb.
Eggs (2, room temperature): Bind the dough and add structure.
Vanilla bean paste or extract (1 tsp): Enhances the warm, aromatic profile of the donuts.
Bread flour (4 cups): Provides the right amount of gluten for chewy, yet soft donuts.
Salt (1 tsp): Balances the sweetness and elevates all the flavors.
Cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, cloves: The celebrated gingerbread spice combo that brings warmth and holiday cheer.
Olive or avocado oil: Perfect for frying, as they have high smoke points and neutral flavors.
Cream cheese (10 oz): Key to the lush and tangy cheesecake filling.
Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and smooths the cheesecake filling beautifully.
Eggnog (1/4 cup): Infuses the filling with classic festive flavor and a hint of spice.
Granulated sugar and optional nutmeg for coating (1 1/2 cups sugar, 1 tsp nutmeg): Creates a crackly, spiced sugar crust on the outside.

How to Make Gingerbread Donuts with Eggnog Cheesecake Filling

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start your journey by warming the milk to a cozy 110 degrees Fahrenheit, the ideal temperature for yeast to thrive. Combine the milk with 1 tablespoon of sugar and sprinkle in the yeast. Stir gently and let it rest for 5 to 7 minutes until it forms a frothy layer, signaling that your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and aromatic spices—cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves—to create a fragrant base. Once your yeast mixture is bubbly, add it to your mixer along with the remaining sugar, rich molasses, tangy Greek yogurt or sour cream, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Blend slowly at first to combine, then give the dough a 5-minute rest to let the ingredients absorb fully. Resume mixing at a medium speed for 7 to 8 minutes until your dough turns smooth and elastic, a sign it’s ready for the next step.

Step 3: First Rise

Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow it to rest in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it doubles in size. This slow rise enriches the flavor and ensures a tender crumb in every bite.

Step 4: Shape the Donuts

Lightly flour your workspace and roll out the dough to about half an inch thick. Cut out your donuts using a 3-inch cutter or your favorite shape like a mason jar lid or gingerbread man cookie cutter for a festive touch. Place each donut on small parchment paper squares—this little trick makes frying safer and cleaner. Cover them loosely and let them proof for another 30 to 45 minutes until they’re puffy and ready to fry.

Step 5: Make the Eggnog Cheesecake Filling and Sugar Coating

While the donuts proof, whip up your luscious filling by mixing cream cheese, powdered sugar, eggnog, vanilla, and the warm spices until fluffy and heavenly using a handheld mixer. Transfer this creamy dream into a piping bag. In a separate bowl, combine granulated sugar with nutmeg to make the donut coating, which will add a perfect crackly, spiced crust after frying.

Step 6: Frying the Donuts

Heat oil in a deep pot to 350–365 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully slide a few donuts at a time (with parchment) into the hot oil. After 10 to 15 seconds, tug off the parchment—it slides right out—and fry for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until golden brown and irresistibly crispy. Drain the donuts on paper towel-lined racks to avoid greasy bites.

Step 7: Coat and Cool

While still warm, dip each donut generously in the spiced sugar mixture, coating every side. Let them cool until slightly warm, the perfect temperature for filling.

Step 8: Fill the Donuts

Use a spoon or chopstick to create a small well in the center of each donut. Fit the piping bag into the hole and fill the donuts with the spiced eggnog cheesecake filling, leaving a little dollop on top as a tempting garnish. And voilà, you have festive donuts that capture the holiday spirit in every bite.

How to Serve Gingerbread Donuts with Eggnog Cheesecake Filling

Garnishes

These donuts shine on their own, but don’t be shy about adding a sprinkle of cinnamon, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. A small fresh mint leaf or edible gold dust can also elevate their festive charm, perfect for impressing guests or adding flair to your holiday brunch table.

Side Dishes

Pair these Gingerbread Donuts with Eggnog Cheesecake Filling with a steaming cup of spiced coffee, chai, or a festive latte. Fresh fruit like orange slices or cranberries can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the donuts. For brunch, serve them alongside scrambled eggs or a savory quiche to balance the sweet flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Presenting your donuts in a charming tiered tray or on a wooden board surrounded by holiday greenery instantly calls to mind cozy celebrations. You can also plate them individually with a small dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg to make each person feel like they’re indulging in a special holiday treat. Gift them in decorative boxes or bags for delightful homemade presents.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keep the filling separate or refrigerate filled donuts if you plan to enjoy them within a day. This prevents sogginess and keeps that crisp sugar coating intact.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze unfilled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze them for up to a month. Thaw overnight at room temperature and fill just before serving for best results.

Reheating

To revive your donuts, warm them gently in a 300-degree Fahrenheit oven for 5 to 7 minutes to restore crispiness without drying them out. Avoid microwaving as it can make the sugar coating sticky and the dough chewy.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Absolutely! While bread flour gives a bit more chewiness due to higher gluten content, all-purpose flour will still yield deliciously soft donuts. Just keep an eye on the dough texture and add a little more flour if needed.

Is there a substitute for eggnog in the cheesecake filling?

Yes, heavy cream is a great alternative if eggnog isn’t available. It will keep the filling creamy without compromising the texture, though you’ll miss out on some of the signature holiday spice flavors that eggnog offers.

Can these donuts be baked instead of fried?

While traditional frying gives these donuts their characteristic crispy exterior, you can bake them at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 12-15 minutes. They won’t have quite the same crunch but will remain soft, especially when coated with the sugar mix and filled with that luscious cheesecake filling.

How do I know when the yeast is active?

The yeast is active when the milk and sugar mixture becomes frothy and bubbly within 5 to 7 minutes. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired or the milk too hot or cold, so try again to ensure a good rise.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Definitely! The eggnog cheesecake filling can be whipped up a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just keep it chilled until ready to pipe into the donuts for the freshest texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Making these Gingerbread Donuts with Eggnog Cheesecake Filling is like capturing the essence of holiday joy in a bite. They’re a perfect blend of comforting spices, fluffy texture, and smooth, festive filling that will brighten any breakfast table or dessert spread. Don’t wait for a special occasion—treat yourself and your loved ones to these warm, delightful donuts and bring some extra magic to your kitchen.