As the crisp autumn breeze dances through the air, it’s the perfect time to indulge in something festive and cozy. Enter my Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating – a delightful way to capture the essence of fall in your kitchen. These baked pumpkin donuts are not only simple to make but also a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts, ensuring you can savor each bite without the guilt. Infused with rich pumpkin flavor and warm spices, every donut is sprinkled with a sweet cinnamon-sugar coat that transforms your mornings into a comforting experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet moment for yourself, these donuts are the ultimate treat to celebrate the season. Are you ready to experience the warmth of fall in your kitchen with these delicious donuts?
Why Are Baked Pumpkin Donuts Irresistible?
Deliciously Simple: These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts require minimal effort, making them perfect for any home cook, whether you’re a novice chef or a seasoned pro.
Rich Autumnal Flavors: Each bite is a celebration of fall, featuring the warm spices of pumpkin pie spice and a luscious pumpkin puree that captures the season beautifully.
Healthier Alternative: Enjoy the guilt-free pleasure of baked donuts instead of indulging in fried ones; they provide all the flavor without the extra oil.
Versatile Treat: Want to mix it up? You can easily customize these donuts by adding chocolate chips or experimenting with different spices. They are also great with variations like Baked Teriyaki Salmon.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From cozy breakfasts to festive gatherings, these donuts please crowds and are best served warm alongside your favorite beverage, making them a delightful seasonal treat.
Baked Pumpkin Donuts Ingredients
For the Donuts
- Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and the quintessential pumpkin flavor; canned pumpkin works well for convenience.
- Milk – Adds creaminess to the batter; substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- Vegetable Oil – Provides fat for tenderness; can be swapped with melted coconut oil for a light coconut flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the donuts; substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor; white sugar can be used but may alter the taste.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds a warm flavor profile characterizing autumn; can be replaced with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Baking Powder – Leavening agent for rising; ensure it is fresh for best results.
- Cinnamon – Enhances the spiced flavor; adjust to taste for a stronger kick.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Nutmeg – Adds a warm, nutty touch; feel free to omit if needed.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- Granulated Sugar – Used for coating to provide sweetness and texture; brown sugar can give a deeper flavor.
- Melted Butter – Helps the cinnamon sugar adhere to the donuts; use nondairy butter as a substitute for a dairy-free option.
These baked pumpkin donuts are a simple yet satisfying way to celebrate autumn flavors. Enjoy making your delightful treats!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). While the oven heats, take a donut pan and generously spray it with non-stick cooking spray to ensure your baked pumpkin donuts come out easily later.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of pumpkin puree, ¾ cup of brown sugar, ⅓ cup of vegetable oil, and ½ cup of milk until everything is well blended and smooth. This mixture should have a rich, creamy appearance that signals a wonderful flavor.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and a dash of nutmeg. Stir to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a spiced blend perfect for your donuts.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula. Mix until just combined—be careful not to over-mix, as this will keep your baked pumpkin donuts fluffy and tender. The batter should be thick yet smooth.
Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
Transfer the donut batter into a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe the batter into each donut mold, filling them about ⅔ full for the best rise. This step ensures even distribution for evenly shaped donuts.
Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Place the filled donut pan into the preheated oven and bake for 15-16 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a donut; it should come out clean for perfect baked pumpkin donuts.
Step 7: Cool Before Releasing
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes on a wire rack. After this initial cooling, gently pop the donuts out of the pan and allow them to cool completely on the rack for another 10 minutes, ensuring a lovely texture.
Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the donuts cool, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl. In another bowl, mix ½ cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. This sweet coating is what makes your baked pumpkin donuts irresistible.
Step 9: Coat the Donuts
Once slightly cooled, brush each donut with melted butter or dip it into the butter, allowing the excess to drip off. Immediately coat it in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring each treat is covered in a delightful layer of sweetness.
Storage Tips for Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Room Temperature: Store baked pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate the donuts in a sealed container; they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days, although the texture may be slightly firmer.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the donuts individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Reheating: Reheat refrigerated or frozen baked pumpkin donuts in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350ºF for 5-7 minutes for a just-baked taste.
What to Serve with Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Elevate your cozy autumn mornings by pairing these delightful treats with the perfect accompaniments.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: Rich and velvety, this drink balances the warm spices of the donuts, turning your breakfast into a full sensory experience.
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Maple Pecan Granola: The crunch of granola complements the soft texture of the donuts, adding an inviting nuttiness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Fresh Apple Slices: Crisp and juicy, apple slices add a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced donuts, making each bite a delightful celebration of fall.
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Spiced Chai Latte: A warm sip of spiced chai envelops your senses and perfectly complements the flavor of pumpkin, creating a harmonious blend with every bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a sweeter touch, serve your donuts with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing the creaminess to balance out the cinnamon sugar coating.
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Warm Cider: A mug of warm apple cider with a touch of cinnamon can enhance the cozy vibe, making it the ideal drink to enjoy alongside these scrumptious donuts.
Indulging in these pairings transforms your baked pumpkin donuts experience into a delightful autumn feast!
Baked Pumpkin Donuts Variations & Substitutions
Customize your baked pumpkin donuts to suit your taste or dietary needs, creating a delightful treat that sings with flavor!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond milk or oat milk for a creamy, dairy-free donut experience. This simple swap keeps your donuts moist and delicious!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a lighter, gluten-free version. You won’t lose any of that lovely pumpkin flavor!
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Sugar-Free: Try using a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener for a healthier option that helps reduce calories without compromising on taste.
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Flavor Boosts: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolaty surprise. This twist brings an extra layer of richness to each bite!
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Spice It Up: Replace pumpkin pie spice with a mix of ground ginger, clove, and allspice to elevate the flavor profile. It’s a delicious way to change things up!
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Apple Twist: Swap pumpkin puree for unsweetened apple sauce to create baked apple donuts. Adding a touch of cinnamon will enhance its fall essence beautifully.
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Lemon Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon zest into your batter for a fresh, citrusy kick that pairs well with warm spices.
These delightful variations will add a personal touch to your baked pumpkin donuts! Another seasonal recipe you’ll enjoy is my Baked Ranch Chicken. Don’t hesitate to mix and match to find your ideal flavor profile!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor autumn flavors even on the busiest mornings! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, allow the batter to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before piping it into the donut pan. Additionally, you can coat the baked donuts in cinnamon sugar well before serving; just reheat them briefly in the oven for a warm, freshly baked taste that’s just as delightful! What a fantastic way to enjoy homemade treats with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Baked Pumpkin Donuts
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Don’t Over-Mix: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients. Over-mixing can lead to dense donuts instead of the light, fluffy texture you want for your baked pumpkin donuts.
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Check Your Oven Temperature: An oven thermometer can ensure your oven is at the correct temperature. This is crucial for properly baked donuts that rise uniformly.
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Use a Piping Bag: For a clean and easy batter transfer, use a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a corner cut off. This prevents mess and helps you fill each donut mold evenly.
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Let Them Cool: Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step helps maintain their shape and texture.
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Customize Your Coating: Use different spices or flavored sugars in the coating for a unique twist! Brown sugar can enhance the caramel flavors in your donuts, making them even more delightful.
Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for one that is bright orange in color and has a smooth texture. Canned pumpkin works great, but be sure to select pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars and spices. If using fresh pumpkin, select a sugar pumpkin, which is sweeter and creamier, and roast it until tender before pureeing.
What’s the best way to store baked pumpkin donuts?
You can store your baked pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them fresh. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. If you prefer to freeze them, wrap each donut in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.
Can I freeze these donuts? If so, how?
Definitely! Freezing baked pumpkin donuts is a fantastic way to enjoy them later. Here’s how: First, let the donuts cool completely. Then, wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to label with the date. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes or warm them in a preheated oven at 350ºF for 5-7 minutes.
What should I do if the donuts sink in the middle after baking?
If your baked pumpkin donuts are sinking in the middle, it’s often due to overmixing the batter or not using enough leavening agent. Make sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients gently until just combined. Also, check that your baking powder is fresh—if it’s too old, it won’t rise properly, leading to dense, sinking donuts.
Are these donuts suitable for those with allergies?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt this baked pumpkin donuts recipe for various dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, use almond milk and nondairy butter. If gluten is a concern, substituting all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend works well. Always check ingredient labels for allergens and feel free to omit nutmeg if anyone has nut allergies.
How do I know when the donuts are done baking?
To check if your donuts are done, insert a toothpick into the center of a donut; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. This usually takes about 15-16 minutes at 350ºF. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, give them another minute and check again. This ensures they are perfectly baked and fluffy!
Baked Pumpkin Donuts: Soft, Spiced Autumn Delights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and spray a donut pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk until smooth.
- In another bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet, folding gently until just mixed.
- Fill each donut mold about ⅔ full with batter using a piping bag.
- Bake for 15-16 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the donuts cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Melt butter and mix sugar with cinnamon in separate bowls.
- Brush or dip each donut in melted butter then coat in cinnamon sugar.
