Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that brightens up your day, these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are just the thing! Imagine biting into a moist, spiced donut that’s not only delicious but also filled with the warm flavors of autumn. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, and trust me, they’ll make your home smell absolutely divine.

This recipe has been a favorite in my kitchen for years. It’s quick to whip up and gives you that comforting feeling of fall with every bite. Plus, you can enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save some for later—if they last that long!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Only 25 minutes from start to finish means you can satisfy your sweet tooth without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: These donuts are fun to make together! Kids love frosting them with cinnamon sugar.
• Perfectly Spiced: The combination of pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a deliciously warm flavor profile that screams comfort.
• Baked, Not Fried: Enjoy all the goodness of donuts without the guilt. Baking keeps them lighter and fluffier!
• Make Ahead: These donuts store well, so you can bake a batch and enjoy them throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple these ingredients are! They are wholesome and easy to find at any grocery store. Let’s gather what we need for these delightful 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

This recipe is flexible and ready for your personal touch! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in some dairy-free chocolate chips for a rich twist.
• Change Up the Spice: Experiment with other spices like ginger or cardamom to create your own unique flavor profile.
• Glaze Instead of Coat: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and non-dairy milk instead of coating them in cinnamon sugar.
• Top with Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top after glazing for an added crunch.

How to Make Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350ºF and spray a donut pan with non-stick cooking spray. This step is crucial because it ensures that your donuts come out perfectly without sticking!

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk. Mixing these ingredients first helps them blend smoothly before adding in the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts—so be gentle!

Step 4: Fill the Pan

Transfer your batter into a piping bag or ziplock bag (with a corner cut off) to easily fill each cavity in your donut pan. Aim for even distribution among six cavities for perfectly shaped donuts.

Step 5: Bake

Bake your donuts for 15-16 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center. This is where the magic happens; watch as they rise beautifully!

Step 6: Cool Down

Allow your donuts to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before flipping them onto a cooling rack. Letting them cool properly helps maintain their texture.

Step 7: Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the microwave while waiting. Use a pastry brush or dip each side of cooled donuts in melted butter—this adds delightful richness!

Step 8: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

In a bowl, mix granulated sugar with cinnamon. Roll each donut in this mixture until they’re well-coated on both sides. This final touch makes them irresistible!

And there you have it—your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are ready! Enjoy them fresh with coffee or share them with family and friends as a sweet surprise. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

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

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works, fresh pumpkin puree can enhance the flavor and texture of your donuts, making them taste even more homemade and delicious.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding the dry ingredients into the wet ones helps keep your donuts light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts that lose their desirable softness.

• Let them cool completely: Allowing the donuts to cool before glazing prevents the sugar from melting away. This makes for a beautiful finish and ensures that the cinnamon sugar coating sticks nicely.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust or add spices like ginger or cloves to suit your taste. Customizing the spice blend can give your donuts a unique twist that reflects your personal flavor preferences.

• Store properly: To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze them for later enjoyment—just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds when you’re ready to indulge!

How to Serve Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

These easy baked pumpkin donuts are perfect for any occasion, and presenting them beautifully will make them even more enticing!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the glazed donuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Drizzle of chocolate: A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate can elevate these donuts into a decadent treat that’s sure to impress.
• Whipped coconut cream: Top each donut with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for a delightful touch that complements the pumpkin perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Apple cider: Serve warm apple cider alongside these donuts for a classic autumn pairing that enhances their cozy flavors.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the donuts. Consider using seasonal fruits like apples and pears.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and sliced bananas or apples for a wholesome side that adds texture and nutrition.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or chai tea pairs beautifully with these sweet treats, making for an inviting breakfast or snack option.

With these serving suggestions, your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts will shine at any gathering! Enjoy creating wonderful memories around this delicious recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts make for a fantastic meal prep option! You can whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week. They stay moist and delicious, making them perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer them chilled, you can refrigerate the donuts, but they are best enjoyed at room temperature.

Freezing

• Allow the donuts to cool completely before freezing.
• Place the cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen donuts, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Preheat your oven to 350ºF and bake the thawed donuts for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Alternatively, you can microwave one donut for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delightful Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts.

Can I make Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts without pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute pumpkin puree with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas, though this will alter the flavor slightly.

How do I ensure my Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts turn out moist?

The key is to not overmix your batter. Combine the wet and dry ingredients just until incorporated. Also, make sure not to overbake; check for doneness around the 15-minute mark.

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to my Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

Yes! Feel free to mix in chocolate chips or chopped nuts to your batter before baking for added texture and flavor.

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

You can use a dairy-free butter alternative or coconut oil if you prefer a non-dairy option.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts as much as I do! They’re not only a delightful autumn treat but also perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whip up a batch today, savor their warm spiced goodness, and bring that cozy fall feeling into your kitchen. Happy baking!