Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting treat that captures the essence of fall, then these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are just what you need! There’s something magical about the combination of warm spices and pumpkin that makes these donuts a favorite in my home. They’re perfect for busy mornings, family gatherings, or even as a sweet surprise for friends. Plus, baking them instead of frying keeps them light and fluffy—what’s not to love?

These donuts are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will fill your kitchen with the most delightful aroma. Trust me; once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and bake time of 15 minutes, you can enjoy fresh donuts in no time!
• Family-Friendly: These spiced pumpkin treats are sure to please both kids and adults alike—perfect for any occasion.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the batter ahead of time or even freeze the baked donuts for later enjoyment—how convenient!
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a comforting taste that screams autumn.
• No Frying Needed: Baking instead of frying means less mess and healthier indulgence without skimping on flavor!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to bring these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts to life. You probably have most of them in your pantry already!

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 donuts.

• Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the batter for a delicious twist.
• Try Different Spices: Mix it up by adding ginger or cardamom for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make It Glazed: Instead of cinnamon sugar, drizzle your donuts with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk.
• Pumpkin Spice Muffins: If donuts aren’t your thing, use this batter to make muffins—just adjust the baking time accordingly!

How to Make Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and spray your donut pan with non-stick cooking spray. This step is crucial because it ensures that your donuts come out easily once they’re baked.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk until well combined. This mixture is where all the moisture comes from; it’s also what gives your donuts their delicious pumpkin flavor.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. By combining these dry ingredients separately first, you allow for even distribution when mixed with the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Create the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this will keep your donuts light and fluffy.

Step 5: Pipe Into Pan

Transfer your batter into a piping bag or ziplock bag with one corner cut off. Pipe it into each donut cavity evenly—this ensures uniformity in size for even baking.

Step 6: Bake

Bake your donuts in the preheated oven for about 15-16 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. This is where they transform from batter into fluffy donuts!

Step 7: Cool Down

Allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before flipping them onto a cooling rack. Letting them cool slightly helps set their shape.

Step 8: Add Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Melt your butter in the microwave. Brush it onto each cooled donut or dip each side quickly if you prefer that method. Then roll them in a cinnamon sugar mixture until coated evenly—this gives that sweet crunch we all love!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts! They pair perfectly with morning coffee or as an afternoon snack. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Making these delightful pumpkin donuts can be a breeze with a few handy tips! Here are some suggestions to ensure your baking adventure goes smoothly.

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: If possible, opt for homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned. It offers a fresher flavor and can elevate your donuts to the next level.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined helps keep the donuts light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, which we definitely want to avoid!

• Cool Completely Before Coating: Allowing the donuts to cool entirely before dipping them in butter and sugar ensures that they stay crisp on the outside. Warm donuts can make the sugar coating melt away.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices or add your favorites, like ginger or cloves, for a unique twist. Everyone has their own taste preferences, so make it yours!

• Make Mini Donuts for Fun: If you have a mini donut pan, use it! Smaller versions are perfect for snacking and sharing during gatherings or parties.

How to Serve Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

These baked pumpkin donuts are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here’s how you can serve them up beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of your glazed donuts for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
• Drizzle of Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup adds an extra layer of sweetness and complements the pumpkin flavor perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits like apples and pears adds brightness and balances the richness of the donuts.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a nutritious side that pairs well with breakfast or brunch.
• Spiced Coffee: Brew a pot of spiced coffee or chai tea to enhance the warm flavors of your pumpkin treats while providing a cozy drink option.
• Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts and fruits makes for a hearty side that complements the sweetness of the donuts.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week, making breakfast or snack time a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Place 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, where they can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply pop the donuts in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can place them in a preheated oven at 350ºF for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delicious donuts!

Can I make Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts without pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! You can substitute the pumpkin puree with applesauce or mashed bananas for a different flavor twist.

How do I store Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

Store your donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate or freeze them!

Can I add chocolate chips to Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

Yes! Adding chocolate chips is a delightful way to enhance the flavor. Just fold in about half a cup of chocolate chips into the batter before baking.

Are Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts healthy?

These donuts are baked instead of fried, which reduces fat content. They also feature wholesome ingredients like pumpkin and whole grains, making them a healthier treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts as I do! They are moist, flavorful, and perfect for any autumn morning or cozy gathering. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe and feel free to share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!