Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, you’re in for a treat with these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts! These delightful little rings are not only bursting with warm spices but also incredibly easy to make. I love how they fill the kitchen with comforting aromas, making it feel like autumn no matter the season. Perfect for busy mornings, family gatherings, or just a quiet afternoon snack, these donuts are sure to become a favorite!

What makes this recipe so special is how moist and fluffy each bite is, thanks to the pumpkin puree. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, making them a lighter option that’s still oh-so-delicious. Trust me; once you try these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts, you’ll want to whip up a batch every week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, perfect for those who want homemade treats without the fuss.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these donuts! They are a fun way to enjoy pumpkin flavors together.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a batch on the weekend and enjoy fresh donuts throughout the week. They store well too!
• Delightful Flavor: With warm spices and a sweet cinnamon sugar coating, every bite is like a hug in donut form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry! Let’s gather everything you need to make these delicious Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts.

For the Donuts

• 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

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! There are plenty of ways to add your own twist. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra decadent treat.
• Try Different Spices: Experiment with different spices like ginger or allspice for a unique flavor profile.
• Glaze Instead of Coat: Instead of rolling in cinnamon sugar, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk over the top.
• Use Whole Wheat Flour: For a healthier option, substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.

How to Make Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). This step ensures that your donuts bake evenly and come out fluffy and delicious.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk until smooth. This mixture is key because it adds moisture and sweetness to your donuts.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another smaller bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix into your wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to denser donuts!

Step 4: Pipe the Batter

Transfer your batter into a piping bag or use a ziplock bag with one corner snipped off. This makes it easy to pipe the batter into each cavity of your donut pan evenly.

Step 5: Bake!

Place your filled donut pan in the oven and bake for 15-16 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes—this helps them set perfectly!

Step 6: Cool Completely

Once cooled slightly in the pan, flip it upside down over a cooling rack to release the donuts. Let them cool for at least another 10 minutes before coating them.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While waiting for your donuts to cool completely, melt your butter in the microwave. Use a pastry brush or dip each donut side into melted butter before coating them in cinnamon sugar.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in one bowl and coat each donut generously on both sides. Now they’re ready to be enjoyed! Savor these homemade delights with friends or family—sharing makes them even sweeter!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Baking these delightful pumpkin donuts is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure they turn out perfectly!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works well, making your own puree can enhance the flavor and texture of the donuts. Fresh puree often has a richer taste and moisture content.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, while a light touch keeps them fluffy and airy.
• Let them cool completely after baking: Cooling the donuts thoroughly before glazing prevents the sugar from melting away. This ensures that you have a delightful cinnamon sugar coating that sticks well.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste! Adding a pinch of ginger or cloves can give your donuts an extra warm spice kick perfect for fall.
• Store properly: To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

These easy baked pumpkin donuts are not only tasty but also versatile in presentation! Whether you’re serving them for breakfast or as a sweet snack, here are some ideas.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream gives an airy sweetness that complements the spiced donuts beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Apple cider: A warm cup of apple cider pairs wonderfully with these donuts, enhancing their autumnal flavors.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits like apples and pears offers a sweet contrast to the rich donuts.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and sliced fruits for a wholesome side that balances out the sweetness of the donuts.
• Coffee or tea: A hot beverage like coffee or chai tea brings warmth and comfort, making it the perfect pairing for your fall treat.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to whip up those Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts and enjoy every delicious bite! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. They store well and even taste great after freezing!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the donuts to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the donuts to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply pop the donuts in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• For a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience, you can also warm them in a toaster oven at 350ºF for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delightful treats!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

Yes! Just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth. Fresh pumpkin will give your donuts a delicious flavor.

How long do Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts last?

When stored properly, they can last up to 2 days at room temperature or about a week in the fridge. For best flavor, enjoy them fresh!

Can I substitute any ingredients in Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

Absolutely! You can use non-dairy milk instead of regular milk and coconut oil in place of vegetable oil if you’d like.

What should I serve with Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

These donuts pair wonderfully with coffee or tea. They also make a lovely addition to breakfast spreads or fall gatherings.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts! They’re not just delicious but also fill your kitchen with that cozy autumn aroma. Whether you’re enjoying them on a crisp morning or sharing them with loved ones, these donuts are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!