Maple Glazed Pumpkin Donuts

If you’re looking for a cozy way to celebrate fall, look no further! These Maple Glazed Pumpkin Donuts are simply delightful. Imagine soft, fluffy donuts infused with the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices, all topped with a sweet maple glaze. They’re perfect for busy mornings, leisurely weekend brunches, or even as a sweet treat during family gatherings. Once you bake these up, you’ll find that they not only taste amazing but also fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of autumn.

There’s something truly special about homemade baked goods. Not only do they bring warmth to your table, but they’re also made with love – and this recipe is no exception!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious donuts in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the soft texture and sweet maple topping; they make for a great breakfast or snack!
• Perfect for Fall: The pumpkin and spice flavors celebrate the season beautifully.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare these donuts in advance for those busy mornings or surprise guests.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins or toppings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you need:

For the Donuts

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter (melted)

For the Maple Glaze

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

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

• Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in some chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.
• Try Different Spices: Swap pumpkin pie spice for cinnamon or nutmeg to change up the flavor profile.
• Make Mini Donuts: Use a mini donut pan to create bite-sized versions that are perfect for sharing.
• Top with Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze for added crunch.

How to Make Maple Glazed Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F and spray a donut pan with non-stick cooking spray. This ensures that your donuts won’t stick, making them easy to pop out once they’re baked.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice until everything is well combined. This step is important because it evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices throughout your batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, milk, and melted butter until smooth. Mixing these wet ingredients thoroughly will help create a uniform batter that bakes evenly.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients while whisking until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine! This helps keep your donuts light and fluffy.

Step 5: Pipe Into Donut Pan

Transfer your batter into a large piping bag and cut off the tip. Pipe the batter into each well of your donut pan until filled about halfway. Baking them properly ensures they rise nicely!

Step 6: Bake Your Donuts

Place the donut pan in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. The donuts should spring back when touched lightly; this means they’re just right!

Step 7: Cool Down

Allow them to cool slightly before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is essential so that they can set perfectly before glazing.

Step 8: Prepare Your Glaze

While your donuts cool down, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. This glaze adds that lovely sweetness we all crave!

Step 9: Glaze Your Donuts

Set a wire cooling rack over a baking sheet and dunk each donut in glaze before placing it back on the rack. Letting them sit allows the glaze to harden slightly—making every bite even more delicious!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Maple Glazed Pumpkin Donuts! Whether you’re serving them at brunch or enjoying them solo with coffee, they’re sure to brighten up anyone’s day!

Pro Tips for Making Maple Glazed Pumpkin Donuts

Making the perfect Maple Glazed Pumpkin Donuts can be a delightful experience if you keep a few handy tips in mind.

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: Freshly made pumpkin puree can enhance the flavor and moisture of your donuts, making them softer and more delicious than canned options.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps to create lighter, fluffier donuts. Overmixing can lead to dense pastries that aren’t as enjoyable to eat.

• Check for doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center of a donut; it should come out clean when they’re baked just right. This ensures that they are fully cooked without being dry.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the pumpkin pie spice or add nutmeg or cinnamon for an extra kick. Tailoring the spices to your taste can make these donuts even more special.

• Let glaze set before serving: Allowing your donuts to rest after glazing helps the maple frosting firm up a bit, giving you that perfect bite of gooey sweetness without it dripping everywhere!

How to Serve Maple Glazed Pumpkin Donuts

Presenting your Maple Glazed Pumpkin Donuts in an enticing way can make all the difference during gatherings or casual mornings at home. Here are some fun ideas on how to serve them!

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some finely chopped pecans on top of the glaze for an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the donuts.
• Cinnamon sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top can elevate both appearance and taste, adding warmth and spice.
• Whipped coconut cream: Serve alongside a dollop of whipped coconut cream for a creamy contrast that balances the sweetness of the glaze.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and cranberries adds freshness and balance to your breakfast spread.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a nutritious side that complements the richness of the donuts without overshadowing them.
• Coffee or chai tea: Pair these delightful donuts with a warm cup of coffee or spicy chai tea. The comforting flavors create an inviting atmosphere perfect for enjoying autumn mornings.
• Maple syrup drizzle: For those who want an extra touch of sweetness, serve with additional warm maple syrup on the side for dipping or drizzling.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Maple Glazed Pumpkin Donuts will not only look fantastic but also be a delightful addition to any meal! Enjoy every sweet bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Maple Glazed Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them for breakfast or as a delightful snack throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing

• Freeze unglazed donuts by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply warm the donuts in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until heated through.
• If you prefer, you can also pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Maple Glazed Pumpkin Donuts.

Can I make these Maple Glazed Pumpkin Donuts gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. The donuts will still be delicious!

How long do Maple Glazed Pumpkin Donuts last?

When stored properly, these scrumptious donuts can last up to 2 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

It’s best to stick with pumpkin puree since pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sugar that will alter the flavor and texture of your donuts.

What is the best way to glaze my donuts?

For optimal glazing, dunk each donut into the glaze while it’s still slightly warm. This helps the glaze adhere better and soak in that sweet maple goodness!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy to your kitchen and fills your home with the comforting aroma of fall! These Maple Glazed Pumpkin Donuts are not just delicious; they’re also simple to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy crafting this delightful treat, and don’t forget to savor every bite. Happy baking!