These pumpkin baked donuts are fluffy and full of fall flavors! Made with warm spices and real pumpkin, they’re a tasty treat that’s easy to whip up.
Perfect for cozy mornings or a sweet snack, these donuts bake in just 15 minutes. I love to add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top to make them even more delicious! 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin is great for convenience, but you can also use freshly cooked pumpkin if you prefer. Just make sure to puree it until smooth.
Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but you can use whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste or a gluten-free blend if needed.
Spices: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger really brings out the pumpkin flavor. If you don’t have one, feel free to use pumpkin pie spice as a substitute.
Butter: Unsalted butter is standard, but melted coconut oil or plant-based butter can work for a dairy-free version.
How Do You Keep Donuts from Sticking to the Pan?
To prevent sticking, greasing your donut pan is key. Lightly coat it with oil or butter before pouring in the batter. You can also use non-stick cooking spray for easy removal.
- Make sure to let the donuts cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- If they still stick a bit, gently run a knife around the edges to help loosen them.
How to Make Pumpkin Baked Donuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Donut Batter:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
For Coating:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 12 to 15 minutes to bake. So, in roughly 30 minutes, you can have delicious pumpkin baked donuts ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, lightly grease a donut pan so that your donuts won’t stick.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the pumpkin puree, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. This ensures your donuts will be fluffy and well-flavored!
4. Mix Together:
Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix everything just until combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can make the donuts dense.
5. Fill the Donut Pan:
Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each cavity of the prepared donut pan about 2/3 full with the batter.
6. Bake the Donuts:
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Your donuts are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, and they spring back when touched.
7. Cool the Donuts:
Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Coat in Butter:
While the donuts are still warm, brush them with melted butter to help the cinnamon-sugar coating stick.
9. Sugar Coating:
In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar and cinnamon. Roll each donut in this mixture until they are well coated and delightful!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, your delicious pumpkin baked donuts are ready to be served! They’re perfect warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your sweet treat with a cup of coffee or tea!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, just cook and puree it until smooth. Make sure to drain any excess moisture for the best texture in your donuts.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.
Can I Freeze These Donuts?
Yes! These donuts freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a sealed freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
What Can I Substitute for Eggs?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a mashed banana for each egg. This will keep the donuts moist and add a hint of sweetness!
