Irresistible Baked Pumpkin Donuts: A Fall Delight

Recipe By:
Alison Shear
Updated:

Baked Pumpkin Donuts are like little bites of autumn wrapped in a warm, fluffy hug. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, spiced donut that melts in your mouth, with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg dancing on your tongue. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making it nearly impossible to resist grabbing one (or five) fresh from the oven.

Now, picture this: it’s a crisp fall morning, and you’re trying to summon the energy to tackle that never-ending to-do list. Instead, you catch a whiff of these delightful Baked Pumpkin Donuts beckoning you from the kitchen. They remind you of cozy family gatherings and lazy weekends spent indulging in sweet treats while sipping hot cider. Trust me; once you bake these beauties, they’ll become your new favorite fall ritual.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These baked pumpkin donuts come together quickly and easily for even novice bakers.
  • Their rich flavor profile boasts warm spices that evoke cozy autumn vibes.
  • Visually appealing with their golden-brown color, they’re perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
  • Versatile enough for breakfast or dessert, they fit any occasion seamlessly.

Ingredients for Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of our donuts. Ensure it’s sifted for a light texture.

  • Pumpkin Puree: Use canned pumpkin puree for convenience or roast your own for a fresher flavor.

  • Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; feel free to use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.

  • Baking Powder: This is crucial for making the donuts rise and achieve that fluffy texture.

  • Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices add warmth and that quintessential fall taste we all love.

  • Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature to help bind everything together smoothly.

  • Milk: Whole milk provides richness; if you’re watching calories, go for low-fat options.

  • Butter: Melted unsalted butter enhances flavor; it’s like giving your donuts a warm embrace.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Baked Pumpkin Donuts

How to Make Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, spray a donut pan with nonstick cooking spray so those lovely donuts don’t stick around longer than necessary.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a sprinkle of salt. This blend will create the cozy flavor profile we crave in pumpkin treats.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, and melted butter until well combined. You want this mixture to be smooth yet slightly thick – like your favorite sweater on a chilly day.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! We want fluffy donuts—not tough ones.

Step 5: Fill the Pan

Spoon the batter into each donut cavity about halfway full—it’s like filling tiny pillows with deliciousness!

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan briefly before transferring them onto a wire rack.

Once you’ve mastered these steps, transfer those glorious Baked Pumpkin Donuts onto plates and watch them disappear faster than you can say “pumpkin spice latte”! Enjoy them plain or dress them up with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzle of icing. The choice is yours—just be prepared for everyone asking for seconds (or thirds!).

You Must Know

  • These baked pumpkin donuts are not just a seasonal treat; they are the perfect breakfast companion.
  • Light, fluffy, and infused with spices, they bring warmth to your kitchen.
  • Plus, they’re healthier than fried donuts, making them an easy choice for guilt-free indulgence.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F while you mix the dry ingredients. Once combined, add in the wet ingredients and gently stir. Fill the donut pan and bake until golden brown for about 15 minutes.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the pumpkin puree for applesauce if you want a fruity twist. You can also experiment with spices like nutmeg or add chocolate chips for extra sweetness. Customize your glaze with maple syrup or a dash of vanilla.

Storing & Reheating

Store your baked pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, pop them in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave for about 10 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For fabulously fluffy donuts, avoid overmixing when combining wet and dry ingredients; lumps are okay!
  • Use a piping bag to fill the donut pan evenly and prevent messy edges.
  • Lastly, let them cool a bit before glazing to prevent a melty disaster.

Sharing this recipe reminds me of last fall when I made these donuts for my friends’ pumpkin carving party. They disappeared faster than I could say “spooky season,” proving that even non-pumpkin lovers couldn’t resist their charm!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

To make delicious baked pumpkin donuts, you’ll need all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. You will also require sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. These simple ingredients come together to create moist and flavorful donuts that are perfect for fall or any time of year.

How long does it take to bake pumpkin donuts?

Baked pumpkin donuts typically take about 15 to 20 minutes in a preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C). Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of the donuts. It’s essential to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean, your donuts are ready to enjoy!

Can I make baked pumpkin donuts gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily adapt baked pumpkin donuts to be gluten-free. Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Ensure that other ingredients like baking powder are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can indulge in these tasty treats without worrying about gluten intolerance.

How should I store leftover baked pumpkin donuts?

To keep your leftover baked pumpkin donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them for up to a week or freezing them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly before freezing.

Conclusion for Baked Pumpkin Donuts :

Baked pumpkin donuts offer a delightful treat that combines the flavors of fall with easy preparation. With simple ingredients like pumpkin puree and spices, these donuts are moist and flavorful. In just 15-20 minutes of baking time, you can enjoy these delicious goodies. Whether you’re making them for breakfast or as a snack, they are sure to please everyone. Remember to store any leftovers properly so you can savor them longer!

Print

Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Baked Pumpkin Donuts are a scrumptious autumn treat that combines the warmth of pumpkin and spices into fluffy, delectable bites. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, these donuts are lightened up by baking instead of frying, making them an indulgent yet guilt-free option. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can savor the essence of fall in every bite.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Makes approximately 8 donuts 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 large egg (room temperature)
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
  3. In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, egg, milk, and melted butter until smooth.
  4. Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients without overmixing.
  5. Fill each donut cavity halfway with batter.
  6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow to cool before removing from the pan.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour. Consider adding chocolate chips for extra sweetness or glaze with maple syrup for an exciting twist.

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