Name: Irresistibly Soft Baked Pumpkin Donuts for Cozy Vibes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree (Use pure pumpkin puree without additives); 1/2 cup milk (Can substitute with almond milk for dairy-free); 1/4 cup vegetable oil (Melted coconut oil is a great alternative); 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (Consider whole wheat flour for added fiber); 1/2 cup brown sugar (Coconut sugar offers a less refined choice); 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice (Or mix individual spices like ginger or allspice); 2 tsps baking powder (Essential for leavening); 1 tsp cinnamon (Iconic fall flavor); 1/2 tsp salt (Enhances flavor); 1/4 tsp nutmeg (Adds warmth); 1/4 cup granulated sugar (Coconut sugar can be used as a healthier option); 2 tbsp butter (A dairy-free spread works for a vegan version)

The aroma of warm spices and sweet pumpkin immediately envelops me as I pull these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts from the oven. It’s a no-fuss recipe that brings the heart of fall straight into my kitchen—perfect for those days when I crave a cozy treat without the guilt. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up these fluffy donuts, which are significantly healthier than their fried counterparts. Whether you plan to share them with friends or savor them alongside your morning coffee, this delightful recipe is bound to become a favorite. Plus, feel free to adapt it for dietary needs; these tasty bites can easily be made dairy-free or vegan! Ready to embrace autumn with a delicious twist? Let’s get baking!

Why Are Baked Pumpkin Donuts a Must-Try?

Unique Flavor: These donuts capture the essence of fall with soft pumpkin goodness and warm spices!
Quick and Easy: In just 25 minutes, you can create a delightful treat without any fuss.
Healthier Option: Enjoy the pleasure of donuts without the guilt—baked instead of fried!
Versatile Recipe: Easily adapt it to fit dietary preferences, making it perfect for everyone.
Perfect for Sharing: These scrumptious donuts are the ideal treat to serve at gatherings, alongside Baked Salmon Pasta or a warm cup of chai.
Warm and Cozy: There’s nothing like wrapping your hands around a warm donut with your favorite beverage—they bring cozy vibes right to your kitchen!

Baked Pumpkin Donuts Ingredients

For the Donut Batter
• Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and a delightful pumpkin flavor; be sure to use pure pumpkin puree without additives.
• Milk – Serves as the liquid base; substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
• Vegetable Oil – Adds richness and moisture; melted coconut oil is a great, healthier replacement.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of your donuts; consider using whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Brown Sugar – Sweetens the donuts and enhances moisture; coconut sugar offers a less refined choice.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses the donuts with the warm spices of fall; you can mix individual spices like ginger or allspice if desired.
• Baking Powder – Essential for leavening, ensuring these baked pumpkin donuts rise beautifully.
• Cinnamon – Imparts that iconic fall flavor; it’s a must-have in this recipe!
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Nutmeg – Complements the spices and adds warmth to the donuts.

For the Coating
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and that lovely cinnamon-sugar texture; substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
• Butter – Adds richness for the coating; a dairy-free spread works perfectly for a vegan version.

Enjoy crafting these delicious baked pumpkin donuts that embody the cozy vibes of autumn!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for the Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts. While the oven heats, carefully spray your donut pan with non-stick spray, making sure each cavity is well-coated to prevent sticking. This will help achieve a perfectly golden exterior once baked!

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk until the mixture is completely smooth and well-combined. This step is crucial as the pumpkin puree brings moisture and flavor to the donuts. You should see a creamy consistency; set this aside while you prepare the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. These dry ingredients will create the foundation for your baked pumpkin donuts, giving them structure and flavor. Ensure there are no lumps, and take a moment to appreciate the enticing fragrance of the spices mingling together.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Don’t worry if the batter is a little lumpy; over-mixing can lead to dense donuts. The batter should be thick yet manageable, ready to transform into light and fluffy Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
Transfer the donut batter to a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off for easy pouring. Fill each cavity of the donut pan about two-thirds full, ensuring an even distribution for uniform baking. This will allow room for the donuts to rise beautifully in the oven.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Place the filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-16 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You’ll know the donuts are done when they spring back lightly when touched. The golden-brown edges will also provide a hint of their perfect doneness.

Step 7: Cool the Donuts
Once baked, remove the donut pan from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. During this time, the donuts will firm up slightly, making them easier to handle. Carefully transfer the donuts to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing air circulation to keep them fluffy.

Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
In a shallow dish, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon to create a delightful coating for the donuts. Melt some butter in a separate bowl; this will be used to brush or dip the warm donuts. The lovely aroma of the spices will make the anticipation of your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts even sweeter!

Step 9: Coat the Donuts
Once the donuts have cooled slightly, brush or dip each one in the melted butter and then roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This adds a sweet, crunchy exterior that complements the soft, moist donut interior. Make sure each donut is well-coated for maximum flavor and texture enjoyment.

Baked Pumpkin Donuts Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and personalize these delicious donuts to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Swap regular milk with almond or oat milk to make these donuts suitable for a dairy-free diet.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a delightful gluten-free treat.
Added Crunch: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a deliciously nutty texture that complements the soft donuts.
Spice it Up: Don’t be shy to adjust the spices! Experiment with a touch of cardamom or ground cloves for an extra flavor boost.
Sweet Glaze: For a sweeter donut, prepare a simple glaze using powdered sugar and a splash of your favorite milk for dipping.
Chocolate Lovers: Stir in chocolate chips into the batter for a rich twist that elevates these sweet treats even further.
Pumpkin Lovers: Use pumpkin pie filling instead of plain pumpkin puree for an added layer of sweetness and spice.
Serving Suggestions: Pair these donuts with a warm cup of Baked Salmon Lemon for a complete autumn breakfast experience.

With these tempting variations, your homemade Baked Pumpkin Donuts will be even more irresistible, ready to warm hearts and satisfy cravings this fall!

Expert Tips for Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Avoid Over-Mixing: Ensure you mix the batter just until combined to keep your baked pumpkin donuts light and fluffy.

Check Your Puree: Always use pure pumpkin puree without additives for the best flavor and texture. Store-bought varieties can sometimes have unwanted ingredients.

Consistent Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the baking time; every oven is different. Toothpick tests are your best friend!

Cooling is Key: Let the donuts cool in the pan for 10 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes for easier handling.

Customize Your Coating: Feel free to experiment with different sugar combinations for coating. Try coconut sugar for a more wholesome twist!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the wet ingredients and dry ingredients separately, then combine them as usual. Store the combined batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to bake, just fill the donut pan and bake as directed, ensuring they come out just as fluffy and delicious. Alternatively, you can bake the donuts and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain their softness, reheat them briefly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes before serving. This approach saves you valuable time, allowing you to enjoy a cozy treat whenever the craving strikes!

What to Serve with Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

Indulging in these light and fluffy donuts opens up a world of delicious pairing possibilities that elevate your autumn experience.

Creamy Yogurt Parfait: The rich, smooth yogurt provides a perfect balance to the warm spices of the donuts, enhancing every bite of sweetness.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm drink sails you into a cozy fall mood, its hints of cinnamon and nutmeg making it a delightful companion to the pumpkin flavor.
Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola offers a contrasting texture that complements the softness of the donuts. It’s a texture play that makes every bite exciting!
Hot Coffee: A warm cup of coffee is an iconic pairing that brings out the richness of the pumpkin, creating a comforting morning ritual.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the donuts while bringing a seasonal vibe to the table.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: For a touch of indulgence, a drizzle of warm caramel adds a sweet layer that’s utterly irresistible alongside the donuts.
Chai Tea: This spiced tea infusion mirrors the warm flavors in the donuts while creating a soothing, aromatic experience with each sip.
Maple Glaze: Drizzling a sweet maple glaze over your donuts can intensify their fall flavors, making for a dessert-worthy treat that celebrates the season.
Chocolate Milk: A nostalgic favorite, the smooth chocolatey richness pairs contrastingly with the pumpkin, making it a fun option, especially for kids.

How to Store and Freeze Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Room Temperature: Store cooled baked pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness.

Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate donuts in an airtight container for up to 5 days; however, note that they may lose some fluffiness.

Freezer: Freeze your donuts for up to 3 months. Wrap each donut in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm again, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat frozen donuts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, always opt for pure pumpkin puree without any additives or preservatives. Canned options are excellent, but if you prefer fresh, you can roast and mash your own pumpkin. Just ensure you avoid using pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor of your donuts.

What’s the best way to store baked pumpkin donuts?
You can store cooled baked pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will keep them soft and fresh. If you’re looking to keep them for a bit longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. However, be aware that refrigeration may cause them to lose some of their fluffiness.

Can I freeze baked pumpkin donuts?
Very! To freeze your donuts, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn and place them in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to regain their warmth and softness.

What should I do if my donut batter is too thick?
If your donut batter is too thick, simply add a splash of milk to achieve a pourable consistency. I often recommend doing this gradually, stirring well after each addition until you reach the desired texture. This will help ensure that your donuts turn out light and fluffy instead of dense.

Can these baked pumpkin donuts be made dairy-free or vegan?
Absolutely! You can easily make these delicious baked pumpkin donuts dairy-free by substituting regular milk with almond milk or another plant-based alternative. For a vegan version, replace the butter in the coating with a dairy-free spread or oil. This way, everyone can enjoy these scrumptious treats without any dietary concerns!