The first chill of autumn arrives, and it’s time to embrace the warm, inviting flavors of the season. What better way to do that than with a batch of Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts? These delightful treats combine the rich creaminess of pumpkin puree with the comforting spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, all wrapped in a lighter, baked version that’s a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts. Not only is this recipe quick and simple, but it also satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt. Perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or a tasty snack, these donuts promise to fill your home with delightful aromas and happy faces. Ready to whip up these seasonal delights? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are these donuts so irresistible?
Comforting Flavors: The combination of rich pumpkin puree and aromatic spices creates a cozy taste perfect for fall.
Healthier Choice: Baked instead of fried, these donuts offer a guilt-free indulgence without sacrificing flavor.
Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you can have these delightful treats ready in no time, making them perfect for any busy schedule.
Customizable Options: Personalize your donuts by adding extra spices or substituting ingredients, keeping each batch exciting!
Family-Friendly Fun: Involve the kids in the baking process for a fun family activity that everyone will enjoy. You might even want to serve them alongside our Oven Baked Chicken for a hearty meal that complements the sweetness of these donuts!
Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Ingredients
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For the Donuts
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Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and vibrant flavor; canned pumpkin is a convenient option.
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Milk – Contributes to a soft texture; almond milk works well for a non-dairy substitute.
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Vegetable Oil – Ensures moistness; consider coconut oil for a healthier twist.
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All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of your donuts; opt for a gluten-free blend for a different take.
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Brown Sugar – Sweetens and enhances the overall taste; coconut sugar can lower the glycemic impact.
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Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses your donuts with fall spices; a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger can work in a pinch.
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Baking Powder – Provides the necessary lift for a fluffy donut.
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Cinnamon – Adds warmth and sweetness to the flavor profile.
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Salt – Balances and enhances all the flavors beautifully.
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Nutmeg – Complements the pumpkin’s rich flavor beautifully.
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For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
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Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the coating for a lovely finish.
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Butter (melted) – Binds the sugar to the donuts; for a dairy-free option, use vegan butter.
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Cinnamon – Elevates the coating with an extra layer of spice, making these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts even more tempting!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). While the oven warms up, take a donut pan and generously spray it with non-stick cooking spray to ensure your donuts release easily after baking. This step is crucial for achieving beautifully shaped Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts.
Step 2: Blend Wet Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/3 cup of vegetable oil, and 1/2 cup of milk. Using a whisk, mix these ingredients until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. You’re creating a flavorful base that will add moisture to the donuts, making them delightfully soft.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts, giving each bite a warm, spiced richness.
Step 4: Mix Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients while stirring gently with a spatula. Mix until just combined—be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to dense donuts. You want a beautifully thick batter that still has a little bit of texture, perfect for creating those fluffy pumpkin donuts.
Step 5: Pipe Batter
Using a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a corner cut off, fill each cavity of the prepared donut pan evenly with the batter. Aim for about two-thirds full to allow room for rising. This method keeps your batter neat and ensures uniformly shaped Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts, perfect for presentation!
Step 6: Bake
Place your filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-16 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the donuts are ready when they spring back when lightly touched, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. These little treats should be fragrant and golden-brown, capturing the essence of autumn.
Step 7: Cool
Once baked, remove the donut pan from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer the donuts to a wire cooling rack, allowing them to cool for another 10 minutes. This cooling step is essential for setting the texture and flavor of your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts before adding the finishing touch.
Step 8: Cinnamon Sugar Coating
Prepare the cinnamon sugar coating by mixing 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon in a bowl. Brush the warm donuts with melted butter or dip them lightly in it, then roll each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated. This final touch adds a delightful sweetness and spice, making your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts truly irresistible!
What to Serve with Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
The enticing aroma of freshly baked pumpkin donuts beckons for delightful companions to enhance your fall-inspired feast.
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Warm Apple Cider: A classic fall beverage, its sweet and spicy notes perfectly complement the flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon in the donuts. Sip it slowly and savor the season.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a luscious contrast to the spiced donuts, creating a delightful treat that feels indulgent without the heaviness.
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Cranberry Orange Muffins: Bright and zesty, these muffins provide a refreshing balance to the rich pumpkin flavor, making for a vibrant brunch spread.
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Chai Latte: The warm spices of a chai latte harmonize beautifully with the donuts, enhancing the cozy experience and wrapping you in a warm embrace.
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Maple Glazed Bacon: A savory touch, the sweet and savory combination of bacon drizzled with maple syrup creates an exciting flavor profile that playfully pairs with the sweetness of the donuts.
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Pecan Pie Bites: Miniature pecan pies bring a crunchy, nutty contrast to the soft, cakey donuts, creating a festive dessert table that will please any crowd.
These delightful pairings will not only elevate your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts but also create enchanting moments around the table, embracing the warmth of togetherness that fall brings. Enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking for a delightful treat that can be prepped in advance! You can mix the wet and dry ingredients separately up to 24 hours before baking, just be sure to refrigerate the wet mixture to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the mixtures, pipe the batter into the donut pan, and bake according to the instructions. For optimal flavor, coat the donuts in cinnamon sugar right before serving, so they stay crisp and delicious. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have these scrumptious donuts ready in no time, making your autumn mornings even sweeter!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Room Temperature: Keep your donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their moist texture and spiced flavor.
Refrigerator: For extended freshness, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure to use a covered container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, place the donuts in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They will last up to 2 months in the freezer while retaining quality.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or let them sit at room temperature for a bit before indulging in your delightful Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts!
Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Variations
Feel free to explore creative twists on this delightful recipe that will elevate your pumpkin donut experience to new heights!
- Spice it Up: Add ginger or allspice for a more robust flavor profile that dances on your taste buds.
- Sweet Potato Surprise: Substitute pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree for a unique, buttery taste that’s deliciously different.
- Nutty Goodness: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled donuts for an indulgent touch that adds sweetness.
- Fruity Addition: Mix in some diced apples or pears into the batter for a fruity twist that feels refreshing and complements the spices.
- Gluten-Free Variant: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-sensitive friends, making these treats accessible to everyone!
- Pumpkin Spice Latte Vibes: Fold in a spoonful of instant coffee granules to the batter for a delightful coffee flavor, perfect for cozy mornings.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Swap out regular milk and butter for your favorite plant-based alternatives, ensuring a vegan-friendly indulgence.
Want more tasty pumpkin recipes? Don’t miss out on our Baked Hot Honey Chicken or explore the comfort of our Cabbage Beef Bake for hearty meal options that embrace the flavors of autumn!
Expert Tips for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
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Perfectly Mixed Batter: Mix until just combined to avoid dense donuts. Over-mixing can lead to a tough texture, so be gentle!
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Use a Piping Bag: For a clean and easy fill, use a piping bag to dispense the batter into the donut cavities. This ensures beautiful, uniform shapes.
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Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your donuts while baking; oven temperatures can vary. Test doneness with a toothpick for best results.
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Cool Properly: Allow donuts to cool in the pan before transferring them to a rack. This helps set the texture and prevents breakage.
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Fresh Storage: To keep your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days, if they last that long!
Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
For the best flavor and convenience, I recommend using canned pumpkin puree as it has a consistent texture and can be found year-round. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can roast and puree fresh pumpkin, but it requires more preparation.
How should I store my baked donuts?
Store your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps preserve their moist texture and delightful flavors. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy them longer!
Can I freeze baked pumpkin donuts?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the donuts in a freezer-safe container or bag, making sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds to warm them up.
What if my batter is too thick?
If you find your batter is thicker than expected, that can happen sometimes! Feel free to add a splash of milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a smooth, pipable consistency. Avoid over-mixing, as this will keep your donuts fluffy!
Are these donuts suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! To make them more inclusive, you can substitute almond milk for dairy milk, and use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Additionally, replacing butter with a vegan alternative will make them completely dairy-free. Always check for specific allergies and adapt as needed!
Can I add different spices or flavors?
Very! While pumpkin pie spice is classic, you can experiment by adding a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for an extra kick. Feeling adventurous? Try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for a delightful twist on your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts!
Delicious Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts for Cozy Fall Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and spray a donut pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
- Fill each cavity of the prepared donut pan evenly with the batter, about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 15-16 minutes or until the donuts spring back when lightly touched and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool for another 10 minutes.
- Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Brush the warm donuts with melted butter and roll in the cinnamon sugar.
