Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

If you’re looking for a cozy treat to warm your heart on a chilly day, you’ve come to the right place! These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are not just a delicious dessert but also a wonderful way to embrace the flavors of fall. They are moist, spiced, and topped with a delightful cinnamon sugar glaze that makes every bite feel like a hug from your favorite sweater.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Whether it’s a busy weekday morning or a weekend family gathering, these donuts fit perfectly into any occasion. Plus, they’re simple enough for even the youngest bakers in the family to help out!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those last-minute cravings.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will enjoy these tasty donuts—kids and adults alike!
• Wholesome ingredients: Made with simple pantry staples, you can feel good about serving these treats.
• Make-ahead option: You can bake these donuts in advance and enjoy them fresh throughout the week.
• Delicious flavor: The blend of pumpkin puree and spices creates an irresistible taste that screams autumn.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! For these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts, you’ll need some simple and wholesome items that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

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

The beauty of these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts is how flexible they are! Here are some fun variations to mix things up:

• Add chocolate chips: Toss in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra sweet surprise.
• Experiment with glazes: Try different glazes like maple or vanilla for a unique twist.
• Incorporate nuts: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Change up the spices: Feel free to add ginger or allspice for an extra festive flavor.

How to Make Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350ºF and spray a donut pan with non-stick cooking spray. This step ensures that your donuts release easily after baking, giving you perfectly shaped treats!

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk until smooth. This mixture is where all that delicious moisture comes from—making sure your donuts stay soft and fluffy!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate smaller bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Be gentle here; overmixing can lead to dense donuts instead of light and airy ones.

Step 4: Pipe the Batter

Transfer your batter into a piping bag or a ziplock bag with one corner snipped off. This method helps you fill each donut cavity evenly—aiming for perfection with every swirl!

Step 5: Bake Away!

Bake those beauties for about 15-16 minutes, or until you can poke them with a toothpick and it comes out clean. Letting them cool slightly in the pan allows them to firm up just enough before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 6: Cinnamon Sugar Coating Time!

Once cooled, melt your butter in the microwave. Using either a brush or dipping method, coat each donut lightly with melted butter before tossing them into your cinnamon sugar mixture. This step adds that lovely sweetness we all crave!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts! They’re perfect as an afternoon snack or served alongside morning coffee. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Making these donuts is a breeze, and with a few extra tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Choose the Right Pumpkin Puree: Using pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) will give you the best flavor and texture. It ensures your donuts are moist without added sugars or spices that could alter the taste.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined helps maintain a light and fluffy texture. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, so be gentle!

• Use a Piping Bag for Neatness: Piping the batter into the donut pan keeps things tidy and prevents messy spills. It also helps achieve uniform shapes for even baking.

• Cool Completely Before Coating: Allowing your donuts to cool completely before coating them in cinnamon sugar prevents the sugar from melting. You’ll get that delightful crunchy crust!

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste! Adding a pinch of ginger or clove can give your donuts an extra warm flavor that’s perfect for fall.

How to Serve Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Serving these baked delights is all about enhancing their warm, cozy flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and pairing!

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the donuts.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a creamy texture that’s both dairy-free and delicious, making it a great addition for those looking for lighter toppings.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of dairy-free chocolate sauce can add a touch of sweetness and decadence, perfect for chocolate lovers!

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits like apples and pears provides a bright contrast to the rich pumpkin flavor, balancing out your meal beautifully.
• Hot Apple Cider: Enjoying these donuts with a warm cup of spiced apple cider creates an inviting autumn experience, perfect for chilly mornings or gatherings.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layering dairy-free yogurt with granola and fresh berries alongside your donuts makes for a delightful breakfast spread that feels indulgent yet healthy.
• Maple Oatmeal: Serve alongside a warm bowl of maple oatmeal; its creamy sweetness pairs wonderfully with the nutty flavors of pumpkin in your donuts.

With these serving suggestions, you can create an inviting breakfast or brunch spread that celebrates all things fall! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store and keep them fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for about a week.

Freezing

• Allow the donuts to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen donuts, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until heated through.
• For a crispy exterior, pop them in the oven at 350ºF for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Wondering more about these delightful treats? Here are some common questions:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

Yes! You can roast and puree fresh pumpkin. Just make sure it’s smooth and has similar moisture content to canned puree.

How long will Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts stay fresh?

When stored properly, these donuts will remain tasty at room temperature for up to two days and in the refrigerator for about a week.

Can I make these donuts vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the milk with plant-based milk and replace butter with a vegan alternative like coconut oil or dairy-free butter.

What if I don’t have a donut pan?

No problem! You can bake this batter in a muffin tin. Just adjust your baking time slightly; they may require an additional few minutes.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts as much as I do! They’re not just delicious but also bring the cozy flavors of fall right into your home. Perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon treat, they’re sure to brighten your day. So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, get baking, and savor every bite of this delightful autumn treat!