Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to whip up. I love how they fill my kitchen with warm spices and that unmistakable pumpkin aroma. They make for a perfect breakfast or an afternoon snack, and trust me, your family will rave about them!
These donuts are great for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a brunch with friends or just want to surprise your little ones after school, these delightful treats will surely bring smiles all around.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these donuts ready in no time.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love them! They’re moist and sweet without being overly indulgent.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Bake a batch and enjoy them throughout the week; they taste amazing even on day three!
- Deliciously Spiced: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices will transport you straight to autumn bliss.
- Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, these donuts are a lighter way to indulge.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts is a breeze with these wholesome ingredients. You probably already have most of them in your pantry!
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Variations
This recipe is super flexible! Feel free to get creative and adapt it to your taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas:
- Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the batter for added crunch.
- Glaze It Up: Instead of cinnamon sugar, try drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk on top.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte Flavor: Add a splash of brewed coffee or espresso to the batter for that beloved pumpkin spice latte flavor.
How to Make Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and spray your donut pan with non-stick cooking spray. This ensures your donuts come out easily without sticking.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk until smooth. This mixture will keep your donuts moist and flavorful.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; we want those fluffy donuts!
Step 4: Pipe the Batter
Transfer your batter into a piping bag or ziplock bag with one corner cut off. Pipe the batter into each cavity of the donut pan evenly—this helps them bake uniformly.
Step 5: Bake Away!
Pop the pan in the oven for about 15-16 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick—it should come out clean when they’re ready! Let them cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Step 6: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
Melt two tablespoons of butter in the microwave. Use a pastry brush to coat each cooled donut with melted butter or dip each side quickly if you prefer that method.
Step 7: Coat in Sugar
In a bowl, combine granulated sugar and cinnamon. Roll each donut in this mixture until covered on both sides—this is where they get their sweet crunch!
And there you have it—your very own batch of Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts! Enjoy every bite as they warm your heart and home this season.
Pro Tips for Making Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Making these delightful donuts is a breeze, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!
- Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works well, using homemade pumpkin puree can enhance the flavor and texture, giving your donuts a richer taste.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding the dry ingredients into the wet mix helps maintain the donuts’ tenderness, preventing them from becoming dense or tough.
- Check doneness carefully: Since oven temperatures can vary, keep an eye on your donuts as they bake. A toothpick should come out clean when they’re ready to avoid overbaking.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your preference! Adding a pinch of ginger or cloves can give your donuts a unique twist that spices up the classic flavor profile.
- Cool completely before coating: Allowing your donuts to cool down fully prevents the sugar coating from melting and ensures that it sticks beautifully, giving you that perfect sugary finish.
How to Serve Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts make for an inviting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at brunch or enjoying them as an afternoon snack, presentation can elevate their charm!
Garnishes
- Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
- Whipped coconut cream: Dollop some light and fluffy whipped coconut cream on top for a delicious contrast in texture and a touch of sweetness.
- Chocolate drizzle: A light drizzle of dairy-free chocolate sauce adds a rich element that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.
Side Dishes
- Fresh fruit salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries provides a refreshing contrast to the warm spiced donuts.
- Yogurt parfait: Layer some plant-based yogurt with granola and fruit for a satisfying side that’s creamy and crunchy, perfect alongside your donuts.
- Spiced chai tea: A warm cup of spiced chai tea harmonizes beautifully with the flavors of pumpkin, making it a cozy pairing for breakfast or snack time.
- Maple oatmeal: Serve a bowl of maple-flavored oatmeal as a hearty side dish that complements the sweet and spiced notes of your donuts.
With these tips and serving suggestions, your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any table! Enjoy this heartwarming treat during autumn or whenever you’re craving something sweet.
Make Ahead and Storage
These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance, making them a convenient breakfast or snack option throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Store the cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- If you prefer a fresher taste, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing
- Place the cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating
- To reheat, simply pop the donuts in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
- For a crisper texture, you can also place them in an oven preheated to 350ºF for about 5 minutes.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about these delightful donuts!
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts?
Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, simply roast it until tender, then puree it to use as a substitute. This will give your donuts a lovely fresh flavor!
How can I make my Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts healthier?
You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour and reduce sugar by using applesauce or mashed bananas as natural sweeteners.
What should I do if my donuts stick to the pan?
Make sure to generously spray your donut pan with non-stick cooking spray before adding the batter. If they still stick, gently run a knife around the edges to help release them.
Can I customize the spices in my Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different spices like ginger or cloves depending on your preference. It’s all about making it your own!
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts as much as I do! They’re such a comforting treat that brings warmth and joy during those cozy autumn days. Whether you’re sharing them with family or savoring them alone with your morning coffee, these donuts are bound to become a favorite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations!
Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of fall with these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts! Perfectly moist and infused with aromatic spices, these delightful treats are a breeze to make and are sure to please everyone in the family. Baked instead of fried, they offer a lighter option for satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether served at breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or at a festive gathering, these pumpkin donuts will fill your home with an irresistible aroma and bring smiles all around.
Ingredients
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and prepare your donut pan with non-stick spray.
- In a medium 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. Gently fold into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Transfer batter to a piping bag or ziplock bag and pipe into each cavity of the donut pan.
- Bake for 15-16 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in the pan for ten minutes before transferring to a rack.
- Coat cooled donuts in melted butter and roll in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon until fully covered.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 146
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 89mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
