Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are just what you need! They are moist, soft, and bursting with warm spices that make every bite feel like a cozy hug. This recipe has become a cherished favorite in our household, especially during those crisp autumn mornings when you want something sweet yet comforting. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these donuts are sure to bring smiles all around!

Imagine waking up to the aroma of pumpkin and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen. These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts not only fill your home with warmth but also provide an easy way to celebrate the season with loved ones. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee on a quiet morning or serving them at a festive brunch, they’re bound to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy days.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love these donuts! They’re fun to make together and even more fun to eat.
• Delicious Flavor: With pumpkin puree and cozy spices, each bite is packed with warm autumn flavors.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can bake these donuts in advance and enjoy them later; they freeze beautifully!
• Versatile Coating: The cinnamon sugar coating adds an irresistible touch that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple, wholesome ingredients that you’ll need for these delicious donuts. Most of them are pantry staples, so you might already have everything on hand!

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 wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients. Here are some tasty variation ideas:

• Add chocolate chips: Stir in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.
• Try different spices: Experiment with ginger or cloves for a unique flavor twist.
• Make mini donuts: Use a mini donut pan for bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing.
• Glaze instead of coat: For a sweeter option, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled donuts.

How to Make Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 350ºF and spray a donut pan with non-stick cooking spray. This step is crucial because it ensures that your donuts will come out easily once they’re baked and perfectly shaped.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk until smooth. Mixing these wet ingredients first helps combine the flavors beautifully 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. This ensures that all your leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout your batter.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want fluffy donuts!

Step 5: Fill Donut Pan

Transfer the batter into a piping bag or ziplock bag with one corner cut off. Pipe the batter into each donut cavity evenly. This technique gives you nice uniform shapes.

Step 6: Bake

Pop those filled pans into your preheated oven! Bake for about 15-16 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. This step is essential because it allows your donuts to rise perfectly while absorbing all those lovely flavors.

Step 7: Cool Down

Once baked, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before flipping them onto a cooling rack. Letting them cool properly helps maintain their structure.

Step 8: Cinnamon Sugar Coating

For that irresistible coating, melt your butter in the microwave. Brush or dip each cooled donut in melted butter before rolling them in cinnamon sugar mixture for that sweet finishing touch!

And there you have it—your very own batch of Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts! Enjoy each bite as you embrace all that fall has to offer!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these tips, your pumpkin donuts will turn out amazing every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned if possible. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor and texture of your donuts, making them even more delicious.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to keep your donuts light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts that don’t rise properly.

• Check your oven temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature, so it’s wise to use an oven thermometer. This ensures your donuts bake evenly, achieving that perfect golden brown without burning.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to customize the spice blend! Adding a pinch of ginger or cloves can give your donuts a unique twist and elevate the autumn flavors even further.

• Store properly: To keep your donuts fresh longer, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This prevents them from drying out and maintains their moist texture.

How to Serve Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

These delightful donuts are not only perfect for breakfast but also make a charming treat for any gathering or cozy afternoon snack. Present them on a beautiful platter or serve warm with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for an inviting touch.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some chopped pecans on top of the glazed donuts for added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Drizzle of maple syrup: A light drizzle of maple syrup adds sweetness and pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• Whipped coconut cream: Top with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for a creamy contrast that complements the warm spices.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits like apples and pears balances the sweetness of the donuts while adding a burst of freshness.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the donuts.
• Hot cocoa: Serve these donuts alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa for an indulgent treat that’s perfect as the weather cools.
• Cheese platter: A small cheese platter featuring mild cheeses can provide a savory counterpart to the sweet pumpkin flavors, creating a delightful balance on your table.

With these serving ideas and tips, you’ll impress everyone who gets to enjoy your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts! Enjoy baking and happy snacking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy them fresh throughout the week, ensuring you have a delightful treat ready whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer them chilled, you can also refrigerate them for up to a week.
• Always check for freshness before enjoying!

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Donuts can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can warm them in an oven preheated to 350ºF for about 5-7 minutes.
• Enjoy your donuts warm to revive that fresh-baked taste!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! You can roast and puree fresh pumpkin as an alternative to canned pumpkin puree. Just ensure it’s well-drained for the best texture.

How do I make these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts gluten-free?

To make these donuts gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The results will still be delicious!

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

You can replace vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or applesauce for a healthier option.

How long do these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts last?

They will last up to 3 days stored at room temperature and up to a week in the refrigerator.

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in some chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the batter before baking for an extra special treat.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts as much as I do! They’re not only simple to whip up but also bring that cozy, autumnal vibe right into your kitchen. Whether it’s breakfast or an afternoon snack, these donuts are sure to brighten your day. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share this delightful recipe with friends and family!