Best Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts Recipe

Autumn brings an irresistible charm to everything, from the changing leaves to the aroma of pumpkin-spiced treats in the air. Among the most loved seasonal delights are pumpkin spice baked donuts, a warm and comforting snack that combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the spices that define fall. But what if you could make these delightful donuts from scratch in less than 30 minutes? This recipe will show you exactly how to create fluffy, soft, and perfectly spiced pumpkin spice donuts that are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts

Perfect for Fall

There’s something magical about pumpkin-flavored desserts in the fall. The rich flavor of pumpkin, combined with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, makes pumpkin spice baked donuts the ideal treat to enjoy as the weather cools down.

Quick and Easy to Make

Unlike traditional fried donuts, baked pumpkin spice donuts require minimal effort. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of fluffy donuts in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for a weekend breakfast or a last-minute dessert.

Versatile Flavor Options

Not only do these donuts taste fantastic, but they can also be adapted to suit your preferences. You can coat them with cinnamon sugar for a classic touch or drizzle them with a sweet glaze for an extra indulgence. The flexibility of this recipe ensures that it fits whatever craving you’re having.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts

To make pumpkin spice baked donuts, you don’t need anything fancy. The ingredients you’ll need are all easily accessible, and the process is straightforward.

• Pumpkin Puree
  Choose pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor. Avoid pumpkin pie filling as it contains added sugar and spices that will throw off the taste of your donuts.

• Spices
  The classic pumpkin spice flavor comes from a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. You can also use pre-made pumpkin pie spice, which combines all of these in one convenient mix.

• Flour
  All-purpose flour works perfectly for this recipe, providing structure and texture to the donuts.

• Leavening Agents
  Baking soda and baking powder are the leavening agents in this recipe. Together, they ensure your donuts rise and stay light and fluffy.

• Butter
  Melted butter adds richness and moisture to the donuts, making them soft and flavorful.

• Sugar
  A combination of brown sugar and granulated sugar gives the donuts the right amount of sweetness and texture.

Optional Additions
While the basic recipe is fantastic on its own, you can customize it by adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter for some extra crunch. You can also sprinkle chocolate chips or even drizzle a sweet glaze over the top for a dessert-like experience.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts

Follow these easy steps to make your own batch of pumpkin spice baked donuts:

Step 1: Prepare Your Donut Pan

Before you start mixing your ingredients, make sure your donut pan is ready. Lightly grease the donut cavities with non-stick spray or butter to prevent the donuts from sticking after baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to go when your batter is mixed.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon of baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon of salt

• 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger

• 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves

Whisking these ingredients together ensures they are evenly distributed in the batter.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients:

• 3/4 cup of brown sugar (packed)

• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)

• 2 large eggs

• 2 cups of pure pumpkin puree

Ensure the butter is slightly cooled before mixing to prevent it from cooking the eggs. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can make the donuts dense. The batter should be thick but easy to spoon into the donut pan.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full. To make this process cleaner and more uniform, you can use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner cut off to pipe the batter into the pan.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Bake the donuts in your preheated oven at 350°F for 12 to 14 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a donut—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the donuts are ready. Be careful not to overbake, or the donuts will become dry.

Step 7: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

Once the donuts are done, allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While the donuts are still warm, brush them with melted butter and then coat them in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. This gives them the classic fall flavor that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin spice.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients
  Having your eggs and butter at room temperature ensures they incorporate more evenly into the batter, resulting in a smoother texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter
  Stir the batter until just combined. Overmixing can result in dense donuts that lack the light, fluffy texture we’re aiming for.

• Let Donuts Cool on a Wire Rack
  After baking, let the donuts cool on a wire rack. This allows air to circulate around them, preventing them from becoming soggy at the bottom.

• Customize Your Topping
  If you want to get creative, try drizzling the donuts with a cream cheese glaze, maple syrup glaze, or even a simple powdered sugar drizzle for an extra indulgent touch.

Variations of Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts

There are countless ways to make pumpkin spice baked donuts your own. Here are a few variations to try:

• Pumpkin Donut Holes
  If you don’t have a donut pan, you can easily make donut holes by using a mini muffin tin. Simply increase the oven temperature to 400°F and bake for 16 to 18 minutes.

• Frosted Pumpkin Donuts
  If you prefer frosted donuts, top them with a thick cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk.

• Add-ins for Extra Texture
  For a bit of crunch, add chopped pecans, walnuts, or even mini chocolate chips to the batter before baking.

Storing and Freezing Your Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts

One of the best things about pumpkin spice baked donuts is that they can be enjoyed fresh or stored for later. Here’s how you can store and even freeze them for future enjoyment:

How to Store Fresh Donuts

Once your pumpkin spice baked donuts are fully cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you plan to enjoy them over the next few days, this will keep them soft and fresh. However, it’s essential to ensure the donuts are completely cooled before storing them to avoid condensation, which can make them soggy.

How to Freeze Donuts

If you’d like to keep a batch of these delicious donuts for a longer time, freezing is the way to go. Here’s how:

1. Cool the Donuts
   Let the donuts cool completely at room temperature.

2. Wrap Individually
   Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap or wax paper. This will help preserve their freshness and prevent them from sticking together.

3. Place in an Airtight Container
   Put the wrapped donuts into an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

4. Freeze for Up to 1 Month
   Pumpkin spice baked donuts can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours or heat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

Nutritional Information for Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts

For those who are conscious of their diet but still want to indulge in a delicious pumpkin spice donut, it’s essential to know the nutritional value. While these donuts are not low-calorie, they do provide a comforting treat in moderation. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for one donut (without the cinnamon sugar coating):

As you can see, these donuts are relatively high in sugar and fat, so it’s best to enjoy them as an occasional treat.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts

Pumpkin spice baked donuts are versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are some fun ideas for enhancing your donut experience:

Make It a Donut Sundae

Turn your pumpkin spice baked donuts into a decadent dessert by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Add a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of crushed nuts for an irresistible fall-inspired treat.

Pair with Coffee or Hot Chocolate

There’s nothing better than enjoying a warm pumpkin spice donut with your favorite fall beverage. Pair these donuts with a hot cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or a pumpkin spice latte to make it the ultimate cozy experience.

Share with Friends

Pumpkin spice baked donuts are perfect for sharing. Whether it’s a fall-themed party, a cozy brunch, or just a treat for your family, these donuts are sure to be a hit.

FAQs on Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts

1. Can I make pumpkin spice baked donuts without a donut pan?

Yes, if you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin instead. Simply increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 16-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

2. Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin puree?

No, it’s best to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The pie filling contains added spices and sugar, which could alter the flavor and texture of your donuts.

3. How do I store leftover pumpkin spice baked donuts?

Store your donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, freeze them for up to 1 month. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap before freezing.

4. Can I make the batter ahead of time?

While it’s best to bake the donuts fresh, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to give it a quick stir before filling the donut pan.

5. How can I make these donuts even more indulgent?

You can frost your donuts with cream cheese frosting, maple glaze, or a simple powdered sugar drizzle for an extra treat. Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.

Conclusion on Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts

Pumpkin spice baked donuts are a fantastic way to embrace the flavors of fall and indulge in a homemade treat that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create donuts that are fluffy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.

Whether you stick to the classic cinnamon sugar coating or experiment with glazes and toppings, these donuts are sure to become a staple in your autumn baking routine. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the best pumpkin spice baked donuts you’ve ever had!

Print Recipe

Best Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts Recipe

These pumpkin spice baked donuts are the perfect fall treat, offering a soft, fluffy texture with the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin. Easy to make in under 30 minutes, they’re a delightful snack or dessert to enjoy on crisp autumn days.

Prep Time5 minutes mins

Cook Time14 minutes mins

Total Time19 minutes mins

Method: Baked

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Best Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts Recipe

Servings: 16

Calories: 253kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cups 250 g all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 3/4 cup 150 g packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup 100 g granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup 113 g unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups 425 g pumpkin puree

Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 2/3 cup 133 g granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 6 tablespoons 85 g melted unsalted butter

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with nonstick spray.
• In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
• In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Add eggs and pumpkin puree, then stir until smooth.
• Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.
• Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity 2/3 full.
• Bake for 12-14 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into a donut comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
• Brush the donuts with melted butter, then coat with cinnamon sugar while still warm.

Notes

• For a richer flavor, you can add a drizzle of cream cheese frosting or a maple glaze.
• If you don’t have a donut pan, make donut holes by using a mini muffin tin, increasing the baking time by a few minutes.
• These donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.

Nutritional Facts (per donut):

• Calories: 253 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Sugar: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Cholesterol: 47mg
• Sodium: 155mg
• Potassium: 120mg
• Vitamin A: 5106 IU