Name: Irresistible Pumpkin Spice Donuts Perfect for Cozy Mornings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend); 1 tbsp baking powder (crucial leavening agent); 2 tbsp pumpkin pie spice (or your own mix); 1/4 tsp salt (a small pinch); 1 cup pumpkin puree (fresh or canned); 1/2 cup brown sugar (can substitute white sugar); 1/2 cup milk (almond milk or non-dairy option works); 1/4 cup butter (softened; can substitute coconut oil); 1/4 cup butter (melted); 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (adjust sweetness to preference)

The other day, while sifting through those comforting scents of fall, I stumbled upon a craving that simply could not be ignored—pumpkin spice donuts. These Easy Baked Pumpkin Spice Mini Donuts are my go-to for quick desserts that satisfy both my sweet tooth and my health-conscious spirit. By baking instead of frying, I’ve found a way to indulge without the guilt, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack. The fluffy, tender texture combined with the warm, aromatic spices will make you forget all about store-bought alternatives. Are you ready to dive into a world where every bite feels like a hug? Let’s get started!

Who Can Resist These Pumpkin Spice Donuts?

Irresistible flavors: These mini donuts are bursting with the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice, making each bite a delight.
Quick to make: With minimal prep and bake time, these donuts are the ultimate quick dessert for unexpected guests or a sweet brunch treat.
Healthy twist: Baked instead of fried, they deliver all the comforting goodness of traditional donuts without any guilt.
Versatile base: Feel free to swap pumpkin puree for applesauce or add chocolate chips for a fun variation! You’ll love how customizable these treats can be.
Perfect for sharing: Bring them to gatherings and watch everyone enjoy them as a welcome alternative to fast food snacks. Try serving with a cup of coffee for an extra cozy feeling!

Pumpkin Spice Donut Ingredients

• For a delightful baking experience, gather these essential ingredients for pumpkin spice donuts:

For the Batter

Flour – Provides structure and texture; a gluten-free flour blend works well for a gluten-free version.
Baking Powder – Ensures a light and airy texture; don’t skip this crucial leavening agent.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Brings a warm, aromatic flavor that’s the star of the show; you can mix your own with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger!
Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors; a small pinch goes a long way.
Pumpkin Puree – Offers rich moisture and that signature pumpkin flavor; both fresh and canned puree are excellent choices.
Brown Sugar – Adds a hint of caramel sweetness; feel free to substitute white sugar, but the flavor will slightly change.
Milk – Contributes moisture; almond milk or any non-dairy milk is a great alternative.
Butter (softened) – Infuses richness and flavor; swap for coconut oil if you prefer a dairy-free treat.

For Dipping

Butter (melted) – The finishing touch that amps up flavor when dipping.
Cinnamon Sugar – A delicious blend for coating; adjust the sweetness to your liking for that perfect finishing touch!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for pumpkin spice donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the heat to circulate evenly throughout the oven, preparing it for the baking process. While it warms up, grab your mini donut pan and lightly grease each cavity to prevent sticking—this will ensure your pumpkin spice donuts release easily after baking.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a small mixing bowl, combine your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Use a whisk to mix them thoroughly, ensuring there are no clumps. This step is crucial, as it promotes even distribution of the spices and leavening agent, leading to perfectly baked donuts that are light and fluffy.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a larger mixing bowl, blend the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, brown sugar, milk, and softened butter. Stir them vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This blend creates the moist foundation for your pumpkin spice donuts. Make sure there are no lumps of sugar or butter left, ensuring a silky batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined—try to avoid overmixing, as this can make the donuts dense. You’ll want to see a few small lumps in the batter, signaling that it’s ready for the next step in creating those delightful pumpkin spice donuts.

Step 5: Transfer Batter to Donut Pan
Pour your batter into a piping bag or a ziplock bag, cutting a corner to create a makeshift piping bag. Carefully pipe the batter into each greased donut cavity, filling them about 3/4 full. This ensures that the donuts have room to rise while baking, leading to beautifully shaped pumpkin spice donuts.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Place the filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The donuts are ready when they spring back lightly to the touch, or you can test with a toothpick that comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking, so they don’t overcook.

Step 7: Cool and Transfer to a Rack
Once baked, remove the donut pan from the oven and allow the donuts to cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer the donuts to a cooling rack using a silicone spatula. Let them cool completely—this helps maintain their fluffy texture and makes them easier to handle for dipping.

Step 8: Prepare for Dipping
As the donuts cool, melt some butter in a small bowl for dipping. In another bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon to create the cinnamon sugar coating. This step adds a delightful sweetness and enhances the warm spices in your pumpkin spice donuts, making each bite irresistible.

Step 9: Finish with Dipping
Once the donuts have cooled slightly, dip each one into the melted butter, allowing any excess to drip off. Then coat the buttered surface with the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring all sides are covered. This final touch brings sweetness, warmth, and that extra bit of holiday cheer to your delicious pumpkin spice donuts.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Spice Mini Donuts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep the flavors fresh. Additionally, these mini donuts can be baked and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. To finish, simply reheat the donuts in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds before dipping them in melted butter and coating with cinnamon sugar. This way, you’ll have delicious, warm pumpkin spice donuts ready in no time, making busy mornings much sweeter!

Variations & Substitutions for Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Feel free to unleash your creativity with these delightful pumpkin spice donuts and customize them to suit your taste!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour for a delicious alternative anyone can enjoy.
Dairy-Free: Swap the butter for coconut oil and substitute milk with almond or oat milk for a creamy texture without dairy.
Sweetness Adjustments: If you prefer less sugar, reduce the brown sugar or try a sugar substitute like coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Flavor Twist: Experiment by substituting pumpkin puree with applesauce or mashed bananas, adding a unique fruity touch to your donuts.
Add Some Crunch: Toss in chocolate chips, nuts, or even sprinkles to the batter for an exciting textural contrast that everyone loves.
Glazed Version: Instead of cinnamon sugar, combine powdered sugar with a bit of milk to create a sweet glaze for that extra indulgence!
Spicy Kick: Elevate the spice level by adding a pinch of cayenne or ginger powder for a surprisingly delightful heat!
Pumpkin Spice Swirls: Add a swirl of cream cheese frosting right after baking for a delectable twist—pair this with your favorite brewed coffee for the perfect bite.

These variations can create whole new experiences! For even more pumpkin delights, check out my recipes for Pumpkin Spice Gooey treats or Pumpkin Spice Sugar cookies to keep your pumpkin love going! Enjoy making these mini donuts uniquely your own!

What to Serve with Easy Baked Pumpkin Spice Mini Donuts

These delightful mini donuts make for a lovely centerpiece, inviting warmth and sweetness to any gathering.

Warm Coffee: The rich flavors of pumpkin spice pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee, enhancing the cozy experience.
Maple Glaze: A drizzle of maple glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and echoes the autumn vibes in every bite.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Combining warm donuts with cold vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast that’s incredibly satisfying.
Apple Cider: Pair these donuts with a glass of apple cider to celebrate fall flavors; it’s a match made in heaven!
Cream Cheese Frosting: A dollop of cream cheese frosting introduces a tangy sweetness that complements the donuts’ rich flavors, making them even more indulgent.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A side of fresh fruit adds vibrant color and a refreshing touch, balancing the sweetness of your pumpkin spice donuts.
Spiced Chai Tea: Sip on some spiced chai tea for a warm drink that echoes the spices within the donuts, rounding out the meal perfectly.
Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce elevates these mini donuts to a dessert lover’s dream, perfect for special occasions.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds an airy texture and sweetness, making each donut a delightful indulgence.
Chocolate Milk: For a fun twist, serve these donuts with a glass of chocolate milk—a nostalgic pairing loved by all ages.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Room Temperature: Store leftover pumpkin spice donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness.

Fridge: If you prefer to keep them longer, transfer the donuts to the fridge, where they can last for about a week. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the donuts individually, wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven or microwave. Dipping them in melted butter before reheating adds an irresistible touch!

Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep your pumpkin spice donuts light and fluffy. Just combine until you no longer see dry flour.
Donut Pan Necessity: Using a mini donut pan is key for perfect shape; if using a muffin tin, expect a slight change in baking time.
Testing for Doneness: Insert a toothpick before the timer goes off—you want it to come out clean but don’t let them overbake!
Dipping Magic: Coat slightly cooled donuts in melted butter before adding cinnamon sugar; the butter helps the sugar stick better and enhances flavor.
Storage: Keep any leftover pumpkin spice donuts in an airtight container for maximum freshness—enjoy them for up to 3-4 days!
Creative Variations: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for a delicious twist on your pumpkin spice donuts.

Pumpkin Spice Mini Donuts Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When picking pumpkin puree, look for those that are labeled “100% pure pumpkin” without added sugars or flavors. If you’re going for fresh, choose smaller pumpkins, such as sugar pumpkins, for a sweeter flavor. Canned options are convenient and offer consistent taste and texture—just check that there are no additives!

How should I store leftover pumpkin spice donuts?
Very simple! For optimal freshness, store leftover pumpkin spice donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you have space in the fridge, they can last a week there. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Can I freeze pumpkin spice donuts? How do I do that?
Absolutely! To freeze your pumpkin spice donuts, begin by wrapping each donut individually in plastic wrap, ensuring they’re sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped donuts in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature and warm them in the oven or microwave—dipping them in melted butter post-thaw is a delicious way to elevate their flavor!

What if my donuts come out too dense?
Oh no! If your donuts turn out dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter. Remember to mix until just combined—it’s perfectly okay to have a few lumps! Also, check that your baking powder is fresh, as old leavening agents can affect the rise. Baking them for the correct time is crucial too—keep an eye on the timer to catch them just as they spring back to touch.

Are there any allergen considerations for these pumpkin spice donuts?
Of course! To make these pumpkin spice donuts suitable for various dietary needs, you can substitute gluten-free flour for those with gluten intolerance. For dairy-free options, swap in almond milk or coconut oil. If you’re concerned about allergies, always check your ingredient labels and consider the individual sensitivities of your guests, especially with common allergens like nuts or dairy.

Can my pets eat pumpkin spice donuts?
Definitely not! While pumpkins are safe for pets in small amounts, the spices and sugars used in these donuts are not. It’s best to enjoy these mini treats yourself and stick to plain, cooked pumpkin for your furry friends if you want to share a little fall spirit with them.