Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the warmth of fall spices with a comforting sweetness, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are just what you need! They’re moist, fluffy, and so easy to make that you’ll want to whip up a batch every weekend. Whether it’s a busy weekday morning or a cozy family gathering, these donuts are sure to bring smiles all around. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, which means less mess and more time to enjoy!

What makes this recipe extra special is how quick it is—ready in just 20 minutes! The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a flavor that feels like a big hug on a chilly day. So grab your mixing bowl, because your new favorite breakfast treat is just a few steps away!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: These donuts come together in no time! With just 8 minutes of prep and 12 minutes of baking, you’ll have delicious treats ready before you know it.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Kids love getting involved in the kitchen. Making these donuts together can be a fun bonding experience!
• Baked Not Fried: Enjoy the classic donut experience without the guilt. Baking them means they’re lighter but still packed with flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Halloween brunch or simply an afternoon snack, these donuts fit right in.
• Customizable Topping Options: You can switch things up with different toppings or glazes if you want to get creative!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are simple and wholesome. Most of them are likely already in your pantry, making it easy to bake up these tasty treats whenever the craving hits.

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup + 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon pumpkin spice

Wet Ingredients

• 1/4 cup pumpkin pie puree
• 2 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk (any type will do)

For Topping

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon

Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into some variations you might enjoy!

Variations

One of the best things about these donuts is their flexibility! You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

• Try Different Flours: If you’re looking for gluten-free options, substitute with almond or oat flour for a unique texture.
• Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips: Stir in some chopped walnuts or dairy-free chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
• Experiment with Spices: If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out pumpkin spice for chai spice or even add some nutmeg for an extra kick!
• Glaze Instead of Coating: Instead of rolling in cinnamon sugar, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk over the top for a sweeter finish.

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your donuts will bake evenly and rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: flour, brown sugar, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin spice. Whisk them together until well blended. This helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the wet ingredients—pumpkin pie puree and melted butter. Then add in your milk. Stir until everything is well combined. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your donuts.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to dense donuts instead of fluffy ones.

Step 5: Fill Your Donut Pan

Lightly grease your donut pan before filling each cavity with batter—about halfway full works best. This ensures they rise nicely without spilling over.

Step 6: Bake!

Pop those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for about 12 minutes or until golden brown. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 7: Cool & Coat

Once baked, let them cool slightly before removing them from the pan. While they’re still warm, dip each donut into melted butter then roll them in cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated.

And there you have it—delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts ready to be enjoyed! Perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon treat, I know you’ll love sharing (or keeping) these little delights!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Baking these donuts is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: Freshly made pumpkin puree has a richer flavor and moisture content compared to canned, which can elevate your donuts significantly.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, so keep it light and fluffy for that perfect texture.

• Check your oven temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature. Use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s preheated correctly to get an even bake on your donuts.

• Coat while warm: For the best cinnamon sugar coating, roll your donuts in the cinnamon-sugar mixture while they are still warm from the oven. This helps the mixture stick better and enhances flavor.

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add extra spices like nutmeg or ginger to customize your donut’s flavor profile and make them uniquely yours!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts can be served in various delightful ways that enhance their charm and taste!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Finely chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch and nutty flavor, complementing the sweetness of the donuts.
• Maple drizzle: A simple drizzle of maple syrup can bring a touch of warmth that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a creamy touch, serve with whipped coconut cream on the side for dipping or as a topping.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the donuts.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a nutritious side that complements the sweetness of the donuts.
• Spiced chai tea: The warm spices in chai tea pair well with these donuts, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for brunch.
• Pumpkin soup: A small bowl of creamy pumpkin soup serves as a lovely starter that echoes the flavors in your donuts.

Enjoy making these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts! They are sure to become a favorite at any gathering or quiet morning at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are perfect for meal prep! They can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy them fresh throughout the week. With a little planning, you can savor these delightful treats whenever the craving hits.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you want to keep them fresher longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, individually wrap each donut in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply pop a donut in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, you can place them in a toaster oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes for a crispy outside.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

Yes! You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. The texture may be denser, but it will still be delicious and nutritious.

How do I make these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts, use a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that your baking powder is also gluten-free!

What makes these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts so moist?

The combination of pumpkin puree and melted butter or coconut oil adds moisture, creating a soft and fluffy texture that keeps these donuts delightful even after a few days.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts or dairy-free chocolate chips to customize your donuts. Just fold them into the batter before baking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts! They are not just easy to whip up but also filled with warmth and flavor that embodies fall. Whether you enjoy them as part of breakfast or as an afternoon treat, I’m sure they’ll bring smiles all around. So grab your ingredients and start baking—happy cooking!