Spiced Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy treat that captures the essence of autumn in every bite, you absolutely need to try this Spiced Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe. These donuts are soft, tender, and bursting with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, perfectly complementing the natural sweetness and moisture of pumpkin. Baked to perfection rather than fried, they offer a lighter yet indulgent dessert or breakfast that feels like a comforting hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re a pumpkin fanatic or just looking to impress friends with a seasonal delight, this recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Spiced Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each component plays an essential role in creating that irresistible texture, rich flavor, and beautiful golden color of the donuts. From the fragrant spices to the moist pumpkin puree, these ingredients come together like magic.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure to your donuts, ensuring they stay soft but hold their shape.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the donuts rise and become fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to give a light, airy texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm, sweet spice that defines the pumpkin flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle note that enhances the spices with a hint of earthiness.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Gives a gentle zing balancing the sweetness perfectly.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Deepens the spice profile for richness and warmth.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: A small pinch to bring out all the wonderful flavors.
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling): The heart of the donuts, providing moistness and natural sweetness without added sugar.
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Adds caramel notes and moist texture.
• 1/4 cup milk: Moistens the dough while keeping it tender.
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil: Ensures the donuts stay soft and moist after baking.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and aids in leavening.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lifts the flavor profile, infusing warmth and sweetness.
• For the cinnamon sugar coating: 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, for that irresistible finishing touch.

How to Make Spiced Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your donut pan thoroughly with non-stick cooking spray. This step ensures the donuts release easily after baking, saving you from any sticky situations and keeping their perfect shape intact.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, baking soda, and all the vibrant spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves—along with the salt. This creates the flavor-packed base of the donuts, blending all those autumn-inspired aromas evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, stir together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until you get a smooth, homogenous mixture. This blend gives the donuts their moist, tender crumb and natural sweetness, balancing perfectly with the spices.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Using a spatula, gently fold everything until just combined. Avoid over-mixing; a few small lumps here and there make for a wonderfully tender texture.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Transfer the batter into a piping bag or zip-top bag with a corner snipped off—this is so much easier than spooning! Fill each donut cavity about three-quarters full, ensuring even shapes and perfect baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The donuts are done when they spring back after a gentle press and a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean. This quick bake time keeps them light and moist.

Step 7: Cool Down

Allow the donuts to rest in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling them completely ensures the cinnamon sugar coating adheres beautifully without melting away.

Step 8: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish. This simple yet enchanting topping conjures up classic fall flavors in every bite.

Step 9: Coat and Finish

Once the donuts are cool, optionally brush each with melted butter for extra richness, then dip into the cinnamon sugar mixture. This final step adds a delightful crunch and sweet spice that makes these donuts truly irresistible.

How to Serve Spiced Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe

Garnishes

For a stunning presentation or extra flavor, garnish your donuts with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple glaze, or even chopped pecans. These little touches turn a simple treat into a real showstopper.

Side Dishes

Pair these donuts with a steaming cup of chai latte or hot apple cider to complement the warming spices. For a heartier brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad to balance sweet and savory.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the donuts with layers of whipped cream and pumpkin spice buttercream for a playful twist, or cut the donuts into bite-sized pieces and serve as part of a festive dessert platter. Wrapped in parchment paper and tied with twine, they also make charming homemade gifts for friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your baked pumpkin donuts fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need a bit more time, refrigeration will extend their shelf life to about 4 days but may slightly change the texture.

Freezing

These donuts freeze beautifully! Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well up to 3 months, perfect for making ahead or enjoying whenever a craving hits.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen donuts at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This helps bring back that soft, freshly baked sensation. For an extra touch, sprinkle with a little more cinnamon sugar after warming.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it first, then strain out any excess liquid for the best texture. Just keep in mind canned pumpkin puree is more consistent and convenient, which is why it’s recommended.

Is it necessary to use a donut pan?

While a donut pan shapes the batter perfectly and helps create that classic donut look, you can bake the batter in a muffin tin for a slightly different but equally delicious treat.

Can I make these donuts vegan?

Yes! Swap the egg for a flax egg or commercial egg replacer, and use plant-based milk and oil. The result will still be moist and flavorful, just with a little tweak to suit vegan preferences.

Why is my batter lumpy?

Don’t worry! Lumps are common with this kind of batter and actually help keep the donuts tender. The key is to fold gently and not overmix, which can make your donuts tough.

Can I add other spices or flavors?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding a pinch of cardamom, or a splash of orange zest to add a citrusy brightness. The Spiced Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe is wonderfully flexible and welcomes your own twists.

Final Thoughts

Making these Spiced Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe at home is such a joyful experience that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with cozy vibes. They’re simple yet special, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying solo with a warm cup of coffee. I can’t wait for you to bake them and discover how quickly these donuts become a treasured seasonal classic in your home too!

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