The aroma of freshly baked pumpkin donuts fills the air, wafting through your kitchen like a warm hug from autumn itself. Imagine biting into a fluffy donut, coated in cinnamon sugar, with a sweet pumpkin flavor dancing on your tastebuds—pure bliss!
These baked pumpkin donuts are not just a treat but an experience that brings back memories of cozy fall mornings. Picture yourself enjoying them with friends or family during a crisp October brunch, their laughter mingling with the smell of spices and warmth. You can’t help but smile as you watch everyone reach for another donut, their faces lighting up with joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These baked pumpkin donuts are incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion
- Their rich flavors make them a delightful treat for breakfast or dessert
- With their warm colors and enticing aroma, they brighten up any table
- Plus, you can customize them with different toppings to suit your taste
I remember the first time I made these donuts; my friends devoured them in minutes and begged for the recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pumpkin Puree: Use canned or fresh puree for the best flavor; it adds moisture and richness.
All-Purpose Flour: Standard flour works perfectly here; sift it for a lighter texture if desired.
Baking Powder: This is essential for those fluffy donuts; make sure it’s fresh for optimal rise.
Cinnamon: A warm spice that enhances the pumpkin flavor; feel free to add nutmeg for extra warmth.
Brown Sugar: It adds moisture and depth of flavor; light or dark both work beautifully.
Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature to help create a better emulsion in the batter.
Vanilla Extract: For that delicious aromatic note; quality extracts elevate the overall flavor.
Milk: Whole milk is preferred for richness, but any milk alternative will do just fine.
Butter: Melted butter brings flavor and moisture; don’t skip this vital ingredient!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your donut pan with nonstick spray so that these beauties slide right out after baking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and brown sugar until well combined. The fragrant spices will fill your kitchen with warmth as you mix!
Create Wet Mixture: In another bowl, combine pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is smooth and invitingly creamy.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want this batter to remain light and airy.
Fill Donut Pan: Spoon or pipe the batter into your prepared donut pan. Fill each cavity about halfway to allow room for rising while baking—trust me; they’ll puff up beautifully!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Your kitchen should now smell like pure autumn heaven!
Cool & Coat Donuts: Let the donuts cool in the pan for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once they’re cool enough to handle, roll them in cinnamon sugar or drizzle with icing if you’re feeling fancy!
Enjoy these baked pumpkin donuts fresh out of the oven or store them in an airtight container—if they last that long! They pair perfectly with coffee or hot apple cider on those chilly fall days when you’re craving something sweet yet comforting. Happy baking!
You Must Know
- Baked pumpkin donuts are perfect for fall mornings
- They offer a warm, cozy flavor that makes your kitchen smell like autumn
- Easy to make and healthier than fried versions, these donuts will leave everyone asking for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F while you mix the dry ingredients. This ensures even baking, and your kitchen will smell divine as they cook.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap pumpkin puree with applesauce for a lighter donut or add chocolate chips for a delightful twist. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store baked pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave for about 10 seconds for that fresh-baked taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for richer flavor and moisture in your donuts
- Sift dry ingredients to avoid clumps and ensure even mixing
- Let the donuts cool completely before glazing for better adherence of toppings
Sharing my first attempt at making baked pumpkin donuts was an adventure! My friends devoured them within minutes, and I felt like a baking superstar that day.
FAQ
Can I use canned pumpkin puree for baked pumpkin donuts?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and saves time in preparation.
How can I make these donuts gluten-free?
Substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour for delicious results.
Can I freeze baked pumpkin donuts?
Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container.
Delightful Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these delightful baked pumpkin donuts. Light and fluffy, each donut is infused with warm spices and sweet pumpkin, making them a perfect treat for breakfast or dessert. Whether you’re sharing them at an October brunch or enjoying them on a crisp morning, these donuts will fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma that brings smiles all around.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or alternative)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your donut pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and brown sugar until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity halfway.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown; check doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool for five minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack and rolling in cinnamon sugar if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut (45g)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Swap pumpkin puree with applesauce for lighter donuts or add chocolate chips for a fun twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days; reheat in the microwave for freshness.
