Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious treat to enjoy this fall, these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are just what you need! They’re not only moist and spiced perfectly, but they also give off that wonderful autumn aroma that makes your kitchen feel like home. Whether you’re whipping them up for a busy weeknight breakfast or a family gathering, these donuts are sure to bring smiles all around.

What makes this recipe so special is how simple it is to make. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you’ll have delightful donuts ready in no time. Plus, the warm cinnamon sugar coating takes them over the top! Trust me; you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: You’ll be amazed at how fast these come together, making them perfect for any morning rush.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves donuts! These are sure to please kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time and enjoy fresh treats all week long!
• Delicious flavor: The blend of pumpkin and spices creates a comforting taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Baked not fried: Enjoy guilt-free indulgence with these lighter baked donuts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need any fancy ingredients for these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts. Just grab some simple, wholesome items from your pantry and fridge, and you’ll be all set!

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

Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add chocolate chips: Toss in some mini chocolate chips for an extra treat that everyone will love.
• Try different spices: Swap out the pumpkin pie spice with vanilla extract or ginger for a unique flavor twist.
• Make them gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to make these donuts suitable for everyone.
• Change up the glaze: Instead of cinnamon sugar, dip them in a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk!

How to Make Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. This step is crucial as it ensures your donuts will bake evenly. While the oven heats up, spray your donut pan with non-stick cooking spray so that they slide out easily later.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk until well combined. This mixture creates a moist base for our donuts. The pumpkin adds richness while keeping them soft and fluffy!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This step helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the batter. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients using a spatula until just combined—don’t overmix!

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Transfer your batter into a piping bag or ziplock bag with one corner cut off. This makes filling each donut cavity so much easier without making a mess! Pipe the batter evenly into each donut mold.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place your filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-16 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center of one; it should come out clean. Let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 6: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

Once cooled slightly, melt your butter in the microwave. Use a pastry brush or dip each side of the donut into melted butter before rolling it in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This step gives them that delightful sweet crunch we all love!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts! Perfect with coffee or as an after-school snack—the joy they bring is simply irresistible!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Making donuts can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially with these helpful tips to ensure your baked pumpkin donuts come out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works just fine, using homemade pumpkin puree can enhance the flavor and moisture of your donuts, making them even more delightful.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined keeps your donuts light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, so be gentle!
• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature. Insert a toothpick into the center – if it comes out clean, your donuts are perfectly baked!
• Let them cool before glazing: Allowing the donuts to cool completely ensures that the glaze adheres better and prevents it from melting away.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add or substitute spices according to your taste! A pinch of ginger or cloves can add an extra depth of flavor.

How to Serve Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

These scrumptious baked pumpkin donuts are not only delicious but also versatile in presentation. Whether for breakfast or an afternoon snack, here’s how you can make them shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling some chopped pecans or walnuts on top adds a delightful crunch and complements the flavors beautifully.
• Drizzle of maple syrup: A light drizzle of maple syrup enhances the sweetness and gives a lovely autumn vibe to your serving.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream provides a creamy topping that pairs wonderfully with the spiced flavors.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and cranberries adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the donuts.
• Cinnamon-spiced oatmeal: Serve these with a warm bowl of cinnamon-spiced oatmeal for a cozy breakfast or brunch option that feels extra comforting.
• Hot chocolate or spiced tea: Pairing these donuts with a warm drink creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for autumn mornings or chilly evenings.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and sliced bananas or berries for a wholesome side dish that complements the richness of the donuts.

Enjoy crafting these easy baked pumpkin donuts and let their warmth fill your kitchen with delicious aromas this fall!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat any time of the day! Whether you’re looking to whip up a batch for breakfast or an afternoon snack, these donuts store wonderfully.

Storing Leftovers

• Place cooled donuts in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them 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.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350ºF for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• You can also microwave each donut for about 10-15 seconds if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might pop into your mind while whipping up these delightful donuts!

Can I make Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts without pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, you can substitute it with applesauce or mashed banana for a different flavor profile.

How long do Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts last?

These donuts stay fresh at room temperature for about 2 days, but you can extend their life by storing them in the fridge or freezing them!

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used! Keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly, making the donuts denser.

What can I use instead of butter for the cinnamon sugar coating?

You can use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute if you prefer a vegan option or simply want to avoid dairy.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts as much as I do! They’re not just scrumptious treats; they also fill your kitchen with that cozy autumn aroma. Whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or just a sweet snack during the day, these donuts are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and may your kitchen always be filled with love and warmth!