Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts will quickly become a favorite! They are moist, fluffy, and oh-so-easy to make right in your own kitchen. In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy these delicious donuts fresh out of the oven. Whether you’re whipping them up for a cozy family breakfast or surprising friends at a gathering, they are sure to bring smiles all around.

What makes this recipe even better is how simple it is to prepare. With everyday ingredients and minimal fuss, you’ll have these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts ready in no time. Plus, the warm aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through your home is just the cherry on top!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 8 minutes of prep and 12 minutes of baking time, you can have these donuts ready in a flash.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will fall in love with the sweet cinnamon sugar coating and moist pumpkin goodness.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These donuts shine at breakfast, snack time, or even as a special dessert.
• Make Ahead: You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple pantry staples, you can feel good about what you’re serving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are made using simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen! Gather these items to start your donut adventure:

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 (whole or any type)

Topping

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Glaze Instead of Sugar: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk over the donuts for a sweet finish.
• Switch Up the Spices: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom to customize your flavor profile.
• Mini Donuts: Use a mini donut pan for bite-sized treats perfect for sharing!

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your donuts bake evenly and rise beautifully as soon as they hit the hot air!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the pumpkin pie puree, melted butter, and milk. Stir until smooth. Combining wet ingredients separately allows you to fully incorporate them before adding them to your dry mix.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold until just combined; be careful not to overmix! This keeps your donuts light and fluffy.

Step 5: Prepare Your Pan

Lightly grease your donut pan with non-stick spray or oil. This step ensures easy removal after baking so you don’t lose any precious donuts!

Step 6: Fill the Pan

Spoon the batter into each donut mold about halfway full. You want them to have room to rise without overflowing.

Step 7: Bake!

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 12 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them because every oven is different; you’ll know they’re done when they spring back lightly when touched.

Step 8: Cool and Coat

Once baked, let them cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they’re still warm but not hot, dip each donut in melted butter first and then roll it in cinnamon sugar! This final touch gives them that irresistible sweet crust everyone loves.

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts! They truly capture the spirit of fall in every fluffy morsel.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

These delightful donuts are sure to impress, and a few tips can help you achieve perfect results every time!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: Fresh puree enhances the flavor significantly compared to canned options, giving your donuts a vibrant taste and texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding the ingredients together helps maintain tenderness. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts.
• Preheat your oven: Ensuring your oven is at the right temperature before baking allows for even cooking and helps the donuts rise perfectly.
• Coat while warm: Adding the cinnamon sugar topping while the donuts are still warm ensures that it sticks better, creating a deliciously sweet crust.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust or add spices such as nutmeg or ginger for a personalized twist on classic pumpkin flavor.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Presenting these pumpkin cinnamon sugar donuts in an inviting way can make them even more enjoyable! Here are some fun ideas for serving.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the donut.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, airy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the warm spice of the pumpkin.
• Drizzle of maple syrup: A drizzle of pure maple syrup brings an extra layer of sweetness and an autumnal touch that’s hard to resist.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like apples and pears provides a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the donuts.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer some creamy yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the donuts.
• Chai tea: The warming spices in chai tea complement the pumpkin flavor perfectly, making it an excellent beverage choice alongside your treats.
• Oatmeal: A bowl of hearty oatmeal topped with cinnamon and brown sugar creates a cozy breakfast spread perfect for fall mornings.

Enjoy sharing these delightful treats with friends and family, or savor them all by yourself—either way, they’re sure to become a favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These moist and fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week, ensuring you have a sweet and satisfying breakfast or snack ready whenever the craving hits.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the donuts to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their life by a few more days.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped donuts in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat frozen donuts, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can warm them in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

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

Can I make these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, but they will still be delicious!

How do I store my Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

Store your Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze as described above.

What makes these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts so special?

These donuts stand out because they are baked rather than fried, making them lighter and fluffier while still being incredibly moist. The combination of pumpkin spice and cinnamon sugar creates a delightful flavor that captures the essence of fall.

Can I use different milk alternatives in this recipe?

Absolutely! Almond milk works great, but feel free to use any non-dairy milk like oat milk or soy milk. Just ensure it’s unsweetened if you want to control the sweetness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you love making these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts as much as I do! They’re not only quick and easy but also bring a cozy warmth to your mornings. Enjoy sharing them with family or savoring them all by yourself—either way, you’re in for a treat! Happy baking!