Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that brings the warmth of autumn into your kitchen, these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are just what you need! They’re moist, spiced, and perfectly sweetened, making them a delightful addition to your breakfast table or an afternoon snack. I love how simple they are to whip up, and they fill the house with that wonderful pumpkin spice aroma that feels like a warm hug. Whether it’s a busy weekday morning or a family gathering, these donuts will surely bring smiles all around!

What makes this recipe even better is how customizable it is. You can enjoy them fresh out of the oven or make them ahead of time to have on hand for those moments when you need a little pick-me-up. Trust me, once you try these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts, they’ll become a staple in your fall baking repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of baking time, you’ll have delicious donuts in no time!
• Family-friendly delight: Everyone loves donuts! These treats are perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Perfectly spiced: The blend of pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon creates a warm flavor that’s simply irresistible.
• Make ahead convenience: Bake a batch over the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week for breakfast or snacks!
• Customizable toppings: Feel free to experiment with different coatings or toppings based on your preference.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts is a breeze with just a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather our wholesome goodies!

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, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add chocolate chips: Stir in some mini chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.
• Experiment with glazes: Instead of cinnamon sugar, dip your donuts in maple glaze for a sweet twist.
• Top with nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top after glazing for added crunch.
• Change up the spices: Swap out pumpkin pie spice for apple pie spice if you’d like a different flavor profile.

How to Make Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350ºF and prepare your donut pan by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray. This step ensures that your donuts come out perfectly shaped without sticking!

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk until smooth. This mixture is where all the moisture comes from, making your donuts soft and tender.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; we want just combined batter for light and fluffy donuts.

Step 4: Pipe into Donut Pan

Transfer the batter into a piping bag (or ziplock bag) with one corner snipped off. Pipe evenly into each cavity of your donut pan. This method helps create perfectly shaped donuts without making too much mess!

Step 5: Bake Them Up

Bake for about 15-16 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes; this step allows them to firm up while still being warm and delicious.

Step 6: Cool Down

Carefully flip the pan upside down onto a cooling rack to release those lovely donuts. Allow them to cool completely so they’re ready for their delicious coating.

Step 7: Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Melt butter in the microwave. Use a pastry brush (or dip) to coat each donut in melted butter. It helps the cinnamon sugar stick better while adding richness.

Step 8: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

In a bowl, combine granulated sugar with cinnamon. Roll each buttered donut in this mixture until fully coated—this is where they get their delightful sweetness!

Now share these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts with family and friends…or keep them all to yourself! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Baking can be a breeze with a few helpful hints up your sleeve! Here are some pro tips to ensure your baked pumpkin donuts turn out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works, using fresh puree gives your donuts a brighter flavor and moisture that makes them irresistible.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently mixing the wet and dry ingredients until just combined prevents tough donuts. Overmixing activates the gluten, leading to denser results.
• Let them cool properly: Allowing the donuts to cool in the pan and then on a rack helps maintain their fluffy texture. If they’re too warm when coated, the sugar won’t stick as well.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preference. Adding more cinnamon or even a hint of ginger can enhance the autumn flavors!
• Make it ahead: These donuts can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. They taste just as good the next day, making them perfect for meal prep!

How to Serve Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

These easy baked pumpkin donuts are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving! Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a cozy morning at home, here are some fun ways to present them.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Drizzle of maple syrup: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup adds sweetness and pairs beautifully with the pumpkin spice.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like apples and pears complements the warm flavors of the donuts while providing a refreshing contrast.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy side dish that balances out the sweetness of the donuts.
• Spiced chai tea: Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced chai for an inviting fall experience that enhances the comforting taste of pumpkin.

These serving suggestions will elevate your donut experience, making every bite feel special! Enjoy your delightful autumn treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance and have them ready for breakfast, snacks, or dessert throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For optimal freshness, place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture.

Freezing

• Allow the donuts to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

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

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you with your baking adventure!

Can I make Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts without pumpkin puree?

Yes! You can substitute pumpkin puree with applesauce or mashed bananas for a different flavor profile. However, this may alter the texture slightly.

How do I store Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! You can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Just note that it may change the texture slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts as much as I do! They’re not only delicious but also a wonderful way to embrace the flavors of fall. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying them during some quiet time with your favorite warm beverage, they are sure to bring a smile. Happy baking!