As the leaves start to crunch underfoot and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like whipping up a batch of freshly baked goodies. Enter my Easy Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Maple Cream Cheese Glaze—a seasonal delight that transforms your kitchen into a cozy autumn retreat. These donuts are not only a cinch to prepare, but they’re also freezer-friendly, allowing you to indulge whenever the craving strikes. Imagine enjoying these light, fluffy treats at breakfast or sharing them with friends during a festive gathering. The combination of real pumpkin and warm spices will envelop you in nostalgia, while the creamy maple glaze adds a touch of sweet sophistication. Curious how to make this delightful treat? Let’s dive in!
Why are These Donuts a Must-Try?
Ease of Preparation: These pumpkin spice donuts come together in just one bowl, making the process a breeze for busy bakers and culinary novices alike.
Fall Flavors: Each bite is infused with warm spices, instantly invoking the comforting essence of autumn.
Versatile Indulgence: Enjoy them fresh, or freeze for later—these donuts are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Swoon-Worthy Glaze: The maple cream cheese glaze adds a rich, creamy finish, turning a simple treat into an indulgent experience.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether sharing with friends or keeping them all to yourself, these donuts will surely impress everyone—they’re a delightful way to celebrate the season!
Ready to explore more delicious options? Don’t miss my recipe for Garlic Butter Meatballs with Parmesan Linguine, or maybe you’d enjoy an easy brunch with Lazy Chicken Cheese.
Pumpkin Spice Donuts Ingredients
For the Batter
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
- White Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with browning; can replace with coconut sugar for a lower GI option.
- Golden Sugar (Light Brown Sugar) – Contributes caramel notes and moisture; substitute with dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds lift; use flax eggs as a vegan alternative.
- Pumpkin Purée – Base flavor and moisture; make sure it’s 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; swap with almond extract for a different twist.
- Ground Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger – Provide warm, seasonal spices; use pumpkin pie spice for convenience.
- Salt – Balances sweetness; no direct substitution needed.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure; substitute with a gluten-free blend for gluten-free donuts.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Helps donuts rise; ensure they are fresh for best results.
- Vegetable Oil – Keeps donuts moist; can substitute with melted coconut oil.
- Milk – Adds moisture and softens texture; use almond or soy milk for dairy-free.
For the Glaze
- Cream Cheese – Adds a rich creaminess to the glaze; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Butter – Provides smoothness and flavor; unsalted is best to control saltiness.
- Icing Sugar – Sweetens the glaze; sift before mixing for a lump-free finish.
- Maple Syrup – Brings a delicious maple flavor; use pure maple syrup for the best taste.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the glaze; swap with almond extract for variety.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Maple Cream Cheese Glaze
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grease a donut pan with cooking spray or softened butter to ensure the donuts release easily after baking. This setup makes the entire process seamless, allowing you to focus on mixing the ingredients for your delightful pumpkin spice donuts.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with ½ cup of white sugar and ½ cup of golden sugar. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step creates a rich base full of flavor and texture for your donuts.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Pumpkin
Next, beat in two large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Once the eggs are well mixed, add 1 cup of pumpkin purée and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy, allowing those wonderful autumn aromas to fill your kitchen as you prepare the batter for your pumpkin spice donuts.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and your ground spices (1 teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon ginger). This combination adds warmth and depth to your donuts. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
Once the batter is ready, use a piping bag or a spoon to fill each cavity of the greased donut pan about ¾ full, allowing space for the donuts to rise as they bake. Carefully tap the pan on the counter to remove any air bubbles. This action ensures a smooth and even bake for your pumpkin spice donuts.
Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re done when they spring back lightly to the touch and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. These fluffy pumpkin spice donuts will fill your kitchen with irresistible scents that evoke the essence of fall.
Step 7: Cool and Transfer
Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This brief cooling period allows the donuts to set properly, ensuring they maintain their shape and texture. After a few minutes, they’ll be ready for glazing, and the anticipation will make the wait worth it!
Step 8: Make the Maple Cream Cheese Glaze
In a bowl, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1 cup of icing sugar, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This delectable glaze will add a sweet finishing touch to your pumpkin spice donuts, enhancing the overall flavors beautifully.
Step 9: Glaze the Donuts
Once the donuts have cooled completely, drizzle the maple cream cheese glaze generously over the top of each donut. Use a spoon to create a beautiful swirled pattern or dip the tops directly into the glaze for a thicker coating. This final step ensures each bite is a heavenly combination of autumn spices and creamy sweetness, making your pumpkin spice donuts truly irresistible.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Donuts
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Egg Temperature Matters: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature. This helps the batter combine better, resulting in fluffier pumpkin spice donuts.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, so keep it gentle for the best texture.
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Cool Properly: Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
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Fresh Leavening Agents: Always check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Stale leavening agents can lead to flat donuts.
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Glaze Timing: Glaze the donuts just before serving. This keeps the glaze from soaking in and maintains its delightful texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Maple Cream Cheese Glaze are perfect for meal prep! You can bake the donuts up to 3 days in advance; simply allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness. If you prefer to extend their freshness, freeze the unglazed donuts for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature before glazing. To keep that luscious glaze just the way you want it, prepare it fresh before serving, giving your donuts that irresistible finishing touch that tastes just as delicious as when they were first made!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Donuts
Room Temperature: Store unglaazed pumpkin spice donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and moisture.
Fridge: If you have leftover glazed donuts, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unglaazed donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before glazing.
Reheating: To reheat, place the frozen donuts in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through.
What to Serve with Easy Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Maple Cream Cheese Glaze
The warmth and coziness of autumn can be perfectly complemented by delightful side dishes and beverages to enjoy alongside these irresistible donuts.
- Brewing Coffee: A rich, bold cup of coffee enhances the warmth of the pumpkin spices, making for a classic pairing.
- Creamy Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a cup of hot cocoa for a sweet, comforting option that delights both young and old.
- Maple Bacon: The salty, savory crunch of maple-glazed bacon harmonizes beautifully with the sweet maple cream cheese glaze, providing a delightful contrast.
- Chai Tea: With similar warm spices, a fragrant cup of chai infuses hints of cinnamon and cardamom, creating a cozy match.
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side for a light and fluffy accompaniment to each bite of the glazed donut.
- Apple Cider: This spiced drink echoes the flavors in the donuts, offering a refreshing yet harmonious flavor blend.
- Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola adds texture alongside the soft donuts, enhancing the overall experience with nutty flavors.
- Pumpkin Soup: For a unique twist, serve a small bowl of creamy pumpkin soup as an appetizer to set the seasonal mood.
Enjoying the savory alongside the sweet elevates every moment, ensuring your pumpkin spice donuts become a cherished highlight of your autumn gatherings.
Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Maple Cream Cheese Glaze Variations
Get ready to personalize your pumpkin spice donuts and take them to a whole new level of deliciousness!
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Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the soft donuts. The texture will elevate every bite, making it feel like a special treat.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Swap the maple glaze for a rich chocolate ganache, made by melting chocolate with a bit of cream. This decadent twist will surely satisfy chocolate lovers—an unexpected yet delightful match with pumpkin spices!
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Spiced Up: For an extra flavor kick, incorporate 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the batter. This subtle heat can beautifully contrast the sweet maple glaze, adding a sophisticated edge to your donuts.
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Fruit Fusion: Stir in mini chocolate chips or diced apples to the batter for bursts of flavor in every bite. Apples offer a refreshing sweetness that pairs well with the spices, while chocolate adds a familiar indulgence.
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly version of these donuts, ensuring everyone can enjoy this seasonal favorite without worry.
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Maple Magic: Replace regular maple syrup in the glaze with a maple-flavored extract for a more intense maple experience. This will take your glaze from good to unforgettable!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use vegan cream cheese and coconut milk in the glaze for a completely dairy-free version. You won’t sacrifice taste and can enjoy them guilt-free.
Why not try pairing these pumpkin spice treats with an afternoon coffee or tea? For something savory to serve alongside, check out my recipe for Lazy Chicken Cheese.
Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Maple Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe FAQs
How can I choose the right pumpkin purée?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin purée, ensure you choose 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. Personally, I love using canned pumpkin for convenience, but if you feel adventurous, making your own with fresh roasted pumpkin can add a deeper flavor. Just scoop the flesh after roasting, blend until smooth, and you’re good to go!
What is the best way to store these donuts?
To keep your donuts fresh, I recommend storing unglaazed pumpkin spice donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have leftovers or wish to prepare them in advance, you can freeze them. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature, and glaze just before serving!
How do I freeze and reheat pumpkin spice donuts?
Very! First, allow your unglaazed donuts to cool completely before freezing. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 2 hours or until frozen solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
What should I do if my donuts come out dense?
If your donuts turn out denser than expected, don’t worry! A common reason could be overmixing the batter. Make sure to mix just until the ingredients are combined. Additionally, check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh and have not expired, as stale leavening agents can prevent proper rising. Lastly, incorporating room temperature eggs into your mixture helps achieve a fluffy texture.
Can these donuts be made allergy-friendly?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe for various dietary needs. To make them dairy-free, use plant-based substitutes like almond milk or coconut oil instead of butter. For gluten-free donuts, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend with a 1:1 ratio. And if you have an egg allergy or prefer a vegan option, substitute each egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for every large egg. Enjoy without worry!
Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Maple Cream Cheese Glaze Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
- Cream together butter, white sugar, and golden sugar until fluffy.
- Incorporate eggs and pumpkin purée followed by vanilla extract.
- Mix dry ingredients in a separate bowl and combine.
- Fill donut pan cavities about ¾ full and tap to remove air bubbles.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Beat cream cheese, butter, icing sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth for the glaze.
- Glaze cooled donuts by drizzling or dipping them in the glaze.
