As autumn leaves begin to carpet the ground, I find myself drawn into the kitchen, eager to embrace the season’s essence. That’s when I discovered the joy of making Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts—a delightful recipe that turns simple pumpkin puree and warm spices into a cozy treat. These baked gems are not only a healthier alternative to fried donuts, but they also come together effortlessly, making them perfect for novice bakers and seasoned home chefs alike. Just picture warm, fluffy donuts coated in sweet cinnamon sugar, ready to brighten up your breakfast table or serve at your next gathering. Who wouldn’t want to dive into a batch of these delicious autumn treasures? Let’s explore how to bring a touch of fall sweetness to your kitchen!
Why are these pumpkin donuts irresistible?
Comforting aroma: The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg fill your kitchen with an inviting scent that feels like a big hug.
Quick and easy: With just a handful of ingredients and under 30 minutes, you can whip up these tasty treats without any fuss.
Guilt-free indulgence: Baked instead of fried, these donuts offer a delightful way to enjoy a classic dessert while being kind to your waistline.
Versatile flavors: Whether you stick with the classic cinnamon sugar coating or experiment with a glaze, each bite is bursting with autumn vibes. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate cozy moment, or check out my other seasonal favorites like Baked Pumpkin Donuts and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies.
Crowd-pleaser: Friends and family will be begging for the recipe after enjoying these delightful donuts at breakfast or brunch!
Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Ingredients
For the Donuts
• Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and flavor; can substitute with homemade pumpkin puree for a fresher taste.
• Milk – Adds creaminess and helps bind the ingredients; use non-dairy milk for a lactose-free option.
• Vegetable Oil – Ensures a tender texture; can replace with melted coconut oil for a unique twist.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the donuts; for gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth; granulated or coconut sugar can also be used.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – A blend of spices enhancing the pumpkin flavor; swap with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if unavailable.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a light donut; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
• Cinnamon – Provides warmth and flavor, essential for that cozy taste; perfect for the cinnamon sugar topping.
• Salt – Balances sweetness; don’t skip this for the best flavor profile.
• Nutmeg – Adds a warm, spicy note; can be reduced if you prefer a milder taste.
For the Coating
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the outer layer; consider using brown sugar for added depth of flavor.
• Butter – Helps the cinnamon sugar adhere nicely; use vegan butter for a dairy-free alternative.
These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts will be a delightful addition to your autumn baking repertoire, effortlessly merging healthiness with mouthwatering flavor!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take a donut pan and generously grease each cavity with non-stick spray. This will ensure that your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts slide out easily after baking, leaving them perfectly intact for coating.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/3 cup of vegetable oil, and 1/2 cup of milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. You’ll know it’s ready when everything is uniformly blended with an inviting, vibrant color. This delicious base will infuse your donuts with moisture and flavor.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until evenly mixed, creating a fragrant blend that complements the pumpkin. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients mixture to the wet pumpkin blend. Gently stir the two together with a spatula, mixing until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this can lead to dense donuts. The batter should be thick yet pourable, with a few flour streaks remaining—this is your sign to stop!
Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
To fill the donut cavities, transfer the batter into a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off. Carefully pipe the batter into each cavity, filling them about two-thirds full. This allows enough room for the donuts to rise beautifully while baking, creating that delightful donut shape we all love.
Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Place the filled donut pan into your preheated oven and bake for 15-16 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the edges have a lovely, golden brown appearance. Remove the pan from the oven and let the donuts cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Step 7: Cool the Donuts
After letting the donuts cool a bit in the pan, gently release them by flipping the pan onto a cooling rack. Allow the donuts to cool completely for another 10 minutes, ensuring they won’t be too hot when you coat them in the cinnamon sugar mix later on.
Step 8: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
For the final step, melt 1/4 cup of butter in a microwave-safe bowl. In another bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Once the donuts are cooled, brush or dip each one into the melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated. Your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are now ready to serve!
Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine while making these delightful pumpkin donuts—they’re versatile and oh-so-delicious!
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a fluffy, accommodating option that everyone can enjoy.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk and use vegan butter for a completely dairy-free treat. Enjoy the same moistness and flavor!
- Spiced Apple: Switch pumpkin puree with applesauce to give a sweet and fruity twist. The change adds a delightful apple flavor that complements autumn perfectly.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the batter for a delightful surprise in every bite. Trust me, the chocolate and pumpkin combination is truly heavenly!
- Frosted Delight: After baking, top your donuts with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk—just mix until smooth and drizzle over the cooled donuts.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in 1/2 cup of toasted walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor. These nuts add an earthy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft donuts.
- Cinnamon Roll Twist: Add a swirl of cinnamon sugar into the batter before baking for a delightful twist reminiscent of a cinnamon roll. It will create a joyous surprise in flavors!
- Maple Glaze: Drizzle a maple syrup glaze over your donuts for a sweet finish. The maple aroma will whisk you away to cozy autumn mornings.
Each variation offers a new adventure in taste, perfectly aligning with the delightful essence of the season. Give them a try and see which one becomes your new favorite! And don’t forget to check out my other seasonal favorites like Pumpkin Smores Cookies for more cozy baking inspiration.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the donut batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately, then combining them just before baking. Refrigerate the batter in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. If you want even more convenience, you can bake the donuts and store them at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage. When ready to serve, simply heat the donuts in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their softness, coat them in cinnamon sugar, and enjoy a latte or tea alongside your delightful homemade treat!
Expert Tips for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
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Proper Mixing:
Avoid over-mixing your batter; this can lead to dense donuts. Mix just until combined for a light, fluffy texture. -
Fresh Ingredients:
Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise. Old baking powder can leave your donuts flat and dense. -
Cooling Time:
Allow donuts to cool sufficiently before coating them in cinnamon sugar. This helps the sugar adhere better, creating a perfect sweet crust. -
Piping Technique:
Use a piping bag or a ziplock with a cut corner to fill the donut pan neatly. This prevents messy spills and ensures even shapes. -
Flavor Adjustments:
Feel free to experiment with spices or add-ins like chocolate chips. Adjust spices to suit your taste while keeping the essence of the Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Room Temperature: Store donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature to maintain their fluffy texture and delicious flavor.
Fridge: If you want to keep them fresh a little longer, you can refrigerate the donuts for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donuts individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, then warm them up in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.
What to Serve with Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
As these delightful donuts fresh from the oven invite cozy moments, consider elevating your meal with perfect pairings that enhance their autumnal charm.
- Hot Coffee: A warm cup of coffee balances the sweet flavors, making for a delightful morning ritual.
- Spiced Chai Tea: This aromatic brew resonates with the spices in your donuts, creating a comforting combo that’s perfect for chilly days.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: A creamy, tangy layer adds richness and decadent flavor to your warm donuts, taking them to the next level.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits like apples and pears offer a refreshing contrast to the sweet donuts, bringing vibrant color to the plate.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream is a simple indulgence that complements the soft texture of the donuts.
- Apple Cider: Enjoy them with a warm glass of spiced apple cider to celebrate the flavors of fall in every sip.
- Candied Pecans: The sweet crunch of pecans adds wonderful texture and a nutty charm, enhancing each bite of your pumpkin treat.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzling pure maple syrup over your donuts adds a touch of sweetness and enhances their autumnal sweetness beautifully.
- Frosted Milkshake: A pumpkin spice milkshake makes for a fun, dessert-like drink pairing, perfect for sharing with family!
- Chocolate Ganache: For a rich twist, dip your donuts in a silky chocolate ganache, mixing warmth with a touch of indulgence.
Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for 100% pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own by roasting a small sugar pumpkin until tender, then pureeing it in a blender until smooth.
What’s the best way to store Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts?
To maintain their fluffy texture, store your donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just let them return to room temperature before indulging!
Can I freeze Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts?
Of course! To freeze, wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the donuts in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the microwave or oven for a delightful treat, just like fresh!
What should I do if my donuts come out dense?
If your donuts turn out dense, it might be due to over-mixing the batter. To achieve that light and fluffy texture, combine your wet and dry ingredients until just mixed—no more! Also, check that your baking powder is fresh; stale leavening agents can lead to flat results.
Are these donuts suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions?
Yes, they can be easily modified! Use non-dairy milk to make them lactose-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and replace butter with a vegan alternative for a plant-based version. Just be sure to check ingredient labels for allergies, especially with the spices and sugar.
What’s the best way to ensure my donuts don’t stick to the pan?
Great question! To prevent sticking, generously grease your donut pan with non-stick spray before filling. If you’re worried about it, you can also dust the pan lightly with flour after spraying. This extra step can assure a smooth release, leaving you with perfect Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts!
Delightful Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts for Cozy Autumn Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the donut pan with non-stick spray.
- In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk until smooth.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
- Transfer the batter into a piping or ziplock bag and fill the donut cavities two-thirds full.
- Bake for 15-16 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean, then cool for about 10 minutes.
- Release the donuts from the pan and cool completely for an additional 10 minutes.
- Melt the butter, then mix granulated sugar and cinnamon. Coat the cooled donuts in butter and roll in the sugar.
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