Name: Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donut
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour; 0.5 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional); 0.5 cup milk (whole or 2%); 2 large eggs (room temperature); 2 tablespoons butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 0.25 cup peanut butter (smooth or creamy); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 0.25 cup powdered sugar; 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract; 0.25 cup heavy cream; 0.25 cup peanut butter (for drizzle); 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for drizzle); 1 tablespoon milk (adjust for desired consistency)

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Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the rich comfort of peanut butter with creamy cheesecake in a baked donut form. I find them delightfully tender, and the sweet peanut butter drizzle shoots them straight to brunch-star status. Baking instead of frying makes the process easier and less messy, which I always appreciate in my kitchen routine. Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donut

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Donuts

1.5 cups all-purpose flour
0.5 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
0.25 teaspoon salt
0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
0.5 cup milk (whole or 2%)
2 large eggs (room temperature)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
0.25 cup peanut butter (smooth or creamy)

For the Cheesecake Filling

8 oz cream cheese, softened
0.25 cup powdered sugar
0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
0.25 cup heavy cream

For the Peanut Butter Drizzle

0.25 cup peanut butter
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk (adjust for desired consistency)

Directions

I start by preheating my oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and greasing a 12-cavity donut pan. Then I whisk the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and optional cinnamon—in one bowl. In another, I mix milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth. I combine them gently, fold in peanut butter until just swirled, and fill each donut cavity about three-quarters full. After baking 10–12 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean, I let them cool.
Next, I whip the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla, then beat in heavy cream until thick to create the cheesecake filling. I fill the cooled donuts via piping or a side hole, then warm the peanut butter, mix with powdered sugar and milk for the drizzle. I pour it on each filled donut and let it set before enjoying.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes about 12 donuts
Prep time: ~15 minutes
Bake time: ~10–12 minutes
Cooling & filling time: ~30 minutes
Total time: ~55–60 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap the peanut butter for almond or cashew butter to change up the flavor. I’ve also omitted cinnamon or added a pinch of nutmeg in the batter. For an extra touch, I’ve drizzled melted chocolate instead of peanut butter glaze—and it pairs wonderfully.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Before serving, I let them come to room temperature so the cheesecake filling softens slightly—I find that’s when they taste best.

FAQs

How long can I make the donuts ahead?

I can bake them a day in advance and store them airtight. Filling and glazing just before serving keeps them freshest.

Can I use a different nut butter?

Absolutely—I’ve used almond or cashew butter. It changes the flavor a bit but stays delicious.

Can these be frozen?

Yes—I freeze unfilled donuts on a sheet until solid, then store in a freezer bag. When I’m ready, I thaw, fill, and drizzle.

Can I use store-bought donuts instead?

Yes—I’ve done that! I just fill them with the cheesecake mixture and drizzle on peanut butter—it tastes like homemade.

How do I tell when they’re done baking?

I look for a golden top that springs back lightly, or I test with a toothpick—it comes out clean when they’re ready.

Conclusion

I’m always excited when I make these Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donuts—they’re soft, indulgent, and perfect for a special breakfast or treat. The combination of peanut butter and creamy cheesecake filling feels like a warm, comforting hug in donut form. I can’t wait for you to try them—and hope they bring as much joy to your kitchen as they do to mine!

Peanut Butter Cheesecake Donut

Why I Love This Recipe