Pumpkin Donuts Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of a treat that perfectly captures the cozy essence of fall, look no further than these incredible Pumpkin Donuts. They’re soft, fluffy, and bursting with warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor that feels like a comforting hug in every bite. Whether you’re sipping coffee on a crisp morning or looking for the ultimate dessert to share with friends, these Pumpkin Donuts offer a delightful balance of sweet and spice with an irresistibly tender crumb. Once you try them, they’re guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your seasonal baking rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple pantry staples that come together to create a wonderfully flavorful and moist donut. Each ingredient plays a special role – from the pumpkin puree that adds moisture and depth, to the spices that bring warmth and character to every bite.

• Butter, melted and cooled: Adds richness and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
• Large egg: Provides structure and helps bind the ingredients for a perfect donut texture.
• Light brown sugar: Brings a subtle molasses flavor and sweetness that complements pumpkin beautifully.
• Granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and helps with browning.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the donuts moist without weighing them down.
• Milk, at room temperature: Lightens the batter and ensures even mixing.
• Pure vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors and gives a warm aroma.
• Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that makes these donuts uniquely fall-perfect.
• All-purpose flour, sifted: Provides structure and fluffiness for tender donuts.
• Baking soda: Helps the donuts rise and become light.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the spice notes.
• Ground cinnamon: Brings warm and comforting spice.
• Pumpkin pie spice: A blend that captures fall’s signature flavor.
• Nutmeg, a pinch: Adds subtle complexity and depth.
• Butter, melted (for coating): Gives donuts a luscious finish to hold the cinnamon sugar coating.
• Granulated sugar (for coating): Creates a sweet and slightly crunchy exterior.
• Ground cinnamon (for coating): Amplifies the spice flavor in each bite.

How to Make Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preparing the Wet Mixture

Start by beating the egg until it’s light and fluffy – this helps incorporate air for a tender texture. Then add the vegetable oil and both brown and granulated sugars, mixing until smooth and creamy. Next, pour in the melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree, beating everything together until well blended. This wet mixture is what brings moisture and sweetness to your Pumpkin Donuts, preparing the perfect base for that rich flavor.

Step 2: Combining the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of nutmeg. Sifting ensures even distribution of spices and helps prevent lumps. Once combined, gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet pumpkin mixture. Using a spatula, fold and mix until all the flour disappears but avoid overmixing; this keeps your donuts soft and delicate instead of tough.

Step 3: Filling the Donut Pan

Generously grease your donut pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking – this step is crucial for easy release later. Spoon about 1/4 cup of batter into each cavity, filling them evenly so they bake consistently. This batter is wonderfully thick but smooth, making it easy to work with. It’s exciting to see how this batter will transform into fluffy Pumpkin Donuts once baked!

Step 4: Baking

Place the donut pan in the oven preheated to 350°F. Bake for about 10 minutes – the smell alone will have you eagerly waiting! To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center of a donut; if it comes out clean, you’re good to go. Allow the donuts to cool for about 5 minutes in the pan, then carefully transfer them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is key to hold their perfect shape and texture for the next delicious step.

Step 5: Coating with Cinnamon Sugar

Once your donuts have cooled, brush each one with the melted butter – this acts like glue for the cinnamon sugar coating. Combine cinnamon and granulated sugar in a shallow bowl, then gently roll each donut until fully coated in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This final touch provides a delightful sweet-spicy crust that perfectly complements the soft pumpkin interior. You’ll want to savor this step as the donuts start to look and smell irresistibly delicious!

How to Serve Pumpkin Donuts

Garnishes

These Pumpkin Donuts shine on their own, but you can elevate the presentation by sprinkling extra cinnamon sugar on top or adding a drizzle of simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. For a little extra indulgence, a dollop of whipped cream dusted with cinnamon or a sprinkle of toasted pecans adds lovely texture and rich flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair your Pumpkin Donuts with a hot cup of spiced chai tea, vanilla latte, or rich coffee for a matching warm flavor profile. Fresh fruit like crisp apples or pears also make excellent companions, bringing a refreshing contrast to the rich spice and sweetness of the donuts.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving these Pumpkin Donuts at a gathering, consider stacking them in a pretty tiered tray with seasonal decorations like mini pumpkins or autumn leaves. You could also slice them in half and fill them with a cream cheese frosting or pumpkin butter for a creative twist that doubles the pumpkin goodness and looks stunning on the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Pumpkin Donuts fresh, store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for up to two days, perfect if you want to enjoy their flavor more than once. Avoid refrigeration since it can dry out the donuts.

Freezing

If you want to keep Pumpkin Donuts longer, freeze them in a sealed container or freezer bag. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When frozen properly, they can last up to a month without losing texture or flavor.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your stored Pumpkin Donuts, reheat them gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or warm them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. This refreshes their soft, fluffy texture and brings back that just-baked charm.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly well and actually makes this recipe quick and convenient. Just make sure to use pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor balance.

Are these donuts baked or fried?

These Pumpkin Donuts are baked, which makes them lighter and less greasy than traditional fried donuts, but they still have all the irresistible flavor and tenderness you crave.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to help the donuts hold together well.

How spicy are these donuts?

The spice blend is warm and comforting without being overpowering. You can always adjust the amount of cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, or nutmeg to suit your taste buds—add a little more for a bolder fall flavor or less for a milder treat.

What’s the best way to serve these donuts warm?

Serving Pumpkin Donuts slightly warm is ideal to enjoy their softness and the cinnamon sugar coating at its best. A quick reheat in the microwave or oven just before serving will bring them back to their delightful freshly baked state.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, making these Pumpkin Donuts is one of the best decisions you’ll make this season. They’re easy, flavorful, and perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself. Once you taste their tender crumb and warming spices, you’ll understand why they become a fast favorite. So, grab your ingredients and let these scrumptious Pumpkin Donuts bring a little extra joy and coziness to your kitchen soon!

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