As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s something nostalgic about the scent of pumpkin wafting through my kitchen. This is the perfect time for whipping up a batch of Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts, a delightful autumn treat that promises warmth and comfort with every bite. These donuts are not only incredibly simple to make but also a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts, allowing you to indulge without the guilt. With moist centers kissed by cinnamon and nutmeg, and a sweet cinnamon sugar coating that beckons for a cozy afternoon brunch, these donuts are sure to become a fall favorite. Are you ready to bring some autumn magic into your kitchen?
Why are these donuts a must-try?
Simplicity at its Finest: Preparing these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts is a breeze, making them ideal for both seasoned bakers and beginners.
Irresistible Flavor: Infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, each bite transports you to a cozy autumn day.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: With a lighter, baked texture compared to traditional fried donuts, you can enjoy these sweet treats without the extra calories!
Perfect for Gatherings: Serve them warm alongside your favorite hot beverage for the ultimate comfort during fall gatherings—or a cozy breakfast at home while enjoying a delicious cup of Homemade Pumpkin Coffee.
Versatile Options: Whether you want to add chocolate chips or experiment with unique glaze toppings, there’s room for creativity!
Elevate your fall experience with these delightful donuts—you won’t be able to stop at just one!
Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Ingredients
For the Batter
- Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and flavor; homemade pumpkin puree works beautifully too.
- Milk – Provides tenderness; feel free to substitute with any dairy or non-dairy milk.
- Vegetable Oil – Keeps the donuts delightfully moist; melted coconut oil can give a unique flavor twist.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structural base; use a gluten-free flour blend for a variation.
- Brown Sugar – Sweetens and adds a hint of caramel; white sugar will do in a pinch.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Enhances the flavor profile; a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger can be substituted.
- Baking Powder – Ensures a fluffy texture; always check for freshness!
- Cinnamon – Provides warmth; adjust according to personal taste preferences.
- Salt – Balances sweetness; it’s key for enhancing flavors.
- Nutmeg – Complements the pumpkin flavor; use freshly grated for the best taste.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the exterior beautifully.
- Butter – Coats the donuts for that perfect sugar adherence; a dairy-free option works too.
- Cinnamon – Enhances the sweetness and aroma of the sugar coating.
Indulge in these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts that are bursting with fall flavors, perfect for all your autumn gatherings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, prepare your donut pan by spraying it generously with non-stick cooking spray. This step ensures that your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts release effortlessly after baking, giving you beautifully shaped treats that are ready to be devoured.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, and 1/2 cup of milk until you achieve a smooth, homogenous mixture. This blend should feel creamy and should smell wonderfully fragrant. Take your time to ensure it’s well mixed, as this will create a flavorful base for your donuts.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, sift together 1 1/2 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. Combine these dry ingredients until evenly mixed, as this will ensure a balanced flavor throughout your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts, enhancing their warm autumn essence.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Carefully fold the dry mixture into the bowl of wet ingredients using a spatula. Stir gently until just combined, avoiding over-mixing to retain a fluffy texture. The batter should be thick but pourable, with a few small lumps still visible. This step is crucial to achieving the light, airy texture that makes these donuts so delightful.
Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
Transfer the batter into a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off. Pipe the batter evenly into each cavity of the prepared donut pan, filling each about 2/3 full. This method ensures perfectly proportioned Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts that will bake evenly and rise beautifully in the oven.
Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Place the filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-16 minutes. The donuts are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the tops spring back lightly when touched. This moment is truly magical, as the inviting aromas of pumpkin and spices fill your kitchen.
Step 7: Cool in the Pan
Once baked, remove the donut pan from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps the donuts firm up slightly, making it easier to remove them from the pan without breaking. You’ll notice their lovely golden-brown edges during this stage, signaling perfect doneness.
Step 8: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
While the donuts cool, melt 1/4 cup of butter in a small bowl. After the donuts have cooled slightly, dip each one in the melted butter, ensuring they are generously coated. Then roll them in a mixture of 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon until every inch is covered, transforming your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts into a sweet, aromatic treat.
Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Customizations
Feel free to make these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts your own with delightful twists and substitutions!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute regular milk with almond milk or oat milk for a vegan version. This keeps the donuts moist without compromising flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to create a delicious gluten-free treat. Everyone can enjoy a taste of fall!
- Flavor Boost: Add chocolate chips for rich sweetness or chopped pecans for a delightful crunch. Both options create an exciting texture contrast!
- Different Spices: Swap in garam masala or chai spice for an exotic twist that surprises the palate. Your friends will be asking for the secret ingredient!
- Glaze Option: Instead of cinnamon sugar, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a sweet finish. It’s indulgent and beautiful!
- Pumpkin Cupcakes Twist: Transform your donuts into cupcakes by pouring the batter into lined cupcake tins. Bake for a similar time for a delightful alternative! Check out these Pumpkin Cupcakes Moist for more inspiration.
- Baked Cinnamon Sugar Snickerdoodles: Blend in some snickerdoodle flavors by including cream of tartar and rolling in cinnamon sugar before baking. This twist adds a delightful chewy texture!
- Spiced Variation: Try mixing in some cloves or allspice for a deeper aroma, enhancing the overall pumpkin flavor. A little spice goes a long way in cozying up your kitchen!
No matter how you choose to customize, these donuts are bound to be a hit all autumn long—especially when paired with a warm cup of Homemade Pumpkin Coffee. Enjoy your creative baking journey!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the wet and dry ingredients, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just pipe the batter into the donut pan and pop them in the oven. If you want to save even more time, bake the donuts ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain their fluffy texture, reheat them briefly in the oven before serving. Enjoy these delightful autumn treats fresh, even on the busiest mornings!
Helpful Tricks for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
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Avoid Over-Mixing: Gently fold the batter to keep the donuts light and fluffy; over-mixing can lead to dense treats.
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Consistent Portions: Use a piping bag or zip-top bag to fill each cavity evenly; this ensures uniform cooking and delightful shapes.
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Check Freshness: Make sure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise; old baking powder can lead to flat donuts.
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Cinnamon Sugar Finish: For a perfectly coated exterior, apply melted butter quickly and roll in cinnamon sugar while donuts are still warm.
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Store Wisely: Keep the Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts in an airtight container to maintain their freshness; they’re best enjoyed within a few days!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Room Temperature: Place the donuts in an airtight container on the countertop to keep them fresh for up to 3 days. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor!
Fridge: For longer storage, keep the donuts in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: If you wish to save some for later, freeze the Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This will help the donuts regain their delightful texture!
What to Serve with Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Warm, spiced donuts are even more delightful when paired with the right accompaniments, creating a cozy autumn feast.
- Hot Coffee: A classic pairing, the rich flavors of coffee beautifully enhance the subtle sweetness of the pumpkin donuts.
- Spiced Chai Tea: The warmth of chai complements the pumpkin and spices, providing a comforting drink perfect for chilly mornings.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry balances the sweetness of the donuts, adding a festive touch to your fall spread.
- Maple Glaze: Drizzling a maple glaze over the donuts introduces a new layer of sweetness with nutty undertones that harmonize perfectly.
- Chopped Nuts: Roasted pecans or walnuts provide a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft texture of the donuts.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: A tangy cream cheese frosting enhances flavors, offering a rich treat that’s great for sharing as a dessert.
- Cinnamon Applesauce: This wholesome side is refreshing, capturing the spirit of fall while perfectly complementing the spiced donuts.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent twist, serve donuts warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a sweet and creamy indulgence.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the season fully with this fall favorite, adding a warm, spiced coffee experience that pairs harmoniously.
Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! You can use canned pumpkin puree for convenience, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade pumpkin puree is an excellent choice too. To make it at home, simply roast a small pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and mash it until smooth.
How should I store my donuts?
For optimal freshness, keep your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them; they can stay fresh for about 5 days there. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature before you enjoy them to bring back that cozy flavor!
Can I freeze these donuts?
Certainly! To freeze your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts, first arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
What if my batter is too thick or too thin?
If you find your batter is too thick, add a splash more milk to achieve a pourable consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired thickness. The goal is a thick but pourable batter that holds its shape when piped into the donut pan!
Are these donuts suitable for anyone with allergies?
These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts can be made more allergy-friendly! To accommodate dairy allergies, use non-dairy milk and a dairy-free butter alternative for the coating. For gluten sensitivities, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. It’s all about making it work for your needs, and I often love experimenting to find alternatives!
Irresistibly Soft Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts for Fall Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your donut pan with non-stick spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk until smooth.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.
- Transfer the batter into a piping bag and fill the donut cavities about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 15-16 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean and the tops spring back when touched.
- Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Melt butter in a small bowl, dip each donut in butter, then roll in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon.
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