Name: Deliciously Light Baked Pumpkin Donuts You’ll Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 46 min
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade); ¾ cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier option); ⅓ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil); 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (gluten-free blend works too); 2 teaspoons baking powder (ensure it is fresh); 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or mix your own); ½ teaspoon cinnamon (adjust to taste); ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated is best); ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup milk (almond milk for dairy-free); ½ cup granulated sugar (sugar substitute can be used); 2 teaspoons cinnamon; 3 tablespoons butter (or margarine/coconut oil)

As I savored the first bite of a freshly baked donut, memories of autumn instantly washed over me—golden leaves crunching underfoot and the delightful aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through the air. If you’re looking for an easier, healthier way to indulge in those nostalgic flavors, these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are just the ticket. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up these delightful treats that are not only delightful but also a wonderful alternative to fried donuts. They’re quick to make and pack a punch of fall-inspired flavor, ensuring they become a staple during cozy get-togethers or lazy brunches. Want to add a touch of magic to your next baking session? Let’s dive into this recipe!

Why are these Baked Pumpkin Donuts irresistible?

Warm, Cozy Flavors: Each bite is infused with comforting pumpkin and spices, perfect for fall!
Effortless Baking: Made with simple ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
Healthier Alternative: Enjoy the deliciousness of donuts without the guilt of frying!
Versatile Treats: Customize with chocolate chips or a sweet glaze for a personal touch.
Crowd-Pleasing Delights: Ideal for brunch gatherings or cozy family mornings, everyone will love them! Experience more seasonal flavors with our Baked Feta Pasta for a complete autumn meal!

Baked Pumpkin Donuts Ingredients

• The perfect blend of flavors awaits you!

For the Donuts

Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and rich pumpkin flavor; feel free to use canned or homemade for convenience.
Milk – Provides the necessary liquid for the batter; substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free twist.
Vegetable Oil – Keeps the donuts moist and tender; melted coconut oil is a delightful alternative.
All-Purpose Flour – The foundation for these baked delights; a gluten-free flour blend works well for gluten sensitivities.
Brown Sugar – Sweetens the donuts and enhances their depth; coconut sugar makes for a healthier option.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Brings that signature fall flavor; mix your own with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if you need.
Baking Powder – Ensures a fluffy texture as it helps the donuts rise; always use fresh for best results.
Cinnamon – Elevates the flavor with its warm notes; adjust to suit your cinnamon-loving heart.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and is crucial for flavor enhancement.
Nutmeg – Adds warmth and complexity; freshly grated nutmeg shines, but ground nutmeg is just fine.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Granulated Sugar – Perfect for coating to provide a tasty crunch; sugar substitutes can be used for a lighter option.
Butter – Adds richness to the cinnamon sugar; use margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.

These baked pumpkin donuts are not only sure to please your taste buds, but they also offer a healthier twist on a classic favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Begin your delightful journey by preheating the oven to 350ºF (175ºC). While the oven warms up, take a non-stick donut pan and generously spray it with cooking spray to ensure easy release later. This will help your baked pumpkin donuts pop out effortlessly, leaving them intact and beautifully shaped.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup pumpkin puree, ¾ cup brown sugar, ⅓ cup vegetable oil, and ½ cup milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. You should see the rich, vibrant color of the pumpkin and a lovely sheen from the oil. This creamy blend sets the foundation for your delicious donuts, so ensure no lumps remain.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, sift together 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon salt. This dry mixture will help your donuts rise beautifully and create that delightful fluffy texture. The spices should fill the air with fall aromas, adding to the excitement!

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Carefully fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix just until combined, being careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. As you blend, the batter will start to take on a lovely, thick consistency, indicating that your batter for the baked pumpkin donuts is ready for the next step.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
To fill your prepared donut pan neatly, transfer the batter into a piping bag or a large zip-top bag with a corner snipped off. Carefully squeeze the batter into each cavity, filling them about ¾ of the way full. This ensures they have room to rise without overflowing, resulting in perfectly shaped donuts.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Place the filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15–16 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they spring back slightly when touched, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The enticing smell of warm spices will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!

Step 7: Cool the Donuts
Once baked, remove the donut pan from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This will allow the donuts to set and make them easier to handle. After this rest, gently flip the pan upside down to release the donuts onto a wire rack, allowing them to cool for another 10 minutes.

Step 8: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
Prepare your cinnamon sugar coating by mixing ½ cup granulated sugar with 2 teaspoons cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Once the donuts have cooled slightly, brush each one with melted butter or dip them in the butter to coat evenly. Then, roll each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture until thoroughly covered, creating that irresistible, sweet outer layer.

What to Serve with Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

As you bite into the soft, warm goodness of a pumpkin donut, imagine the perfect accompaniments to enhance your experience.

Rich Coffee: The deep, bold flavors of fresh-brewed coffee provide a delicious contrast, balancing the sweetness of the donuts perfectly.
Creamy Hot Chocolate: For a cozy treat, pair with a decadent hot chocolate topped with marshmallows to embrace all the warm, seasonal vibes.
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal: This hearty dish adds a wholesome texture and enhances the autumnal flavors, making for a comforting brunch spread.
Maple Glazed Bacon: The sweet and salty combination of crispy bacon with a maple drizzle will elevate your taste experience to new heights!
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Keep the pumpkin theme going with this classic seasonal drink; its creamy texture mingles beautifully with the donuts.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can brighten the dish, bringing a burst of color and natural sweetness to your meal.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, scoop some velvety vanilla ice cream on the side to create a delightful warm and cold contrast.
Chai Tea: The spice-infused warmth of chai pairs wonderfully, accentuating the cinnamon and nutmeg flavors of the donuts.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Add a touch of sweetness by drizzling real maple syrup over your pumpkin donuts for that extra autumnal twist.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the wet ingredients and dry ingredients separately, then combine them without over-mixing. Store the mixed batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to bake, transfer the chilled batter into a piping bag and fill your donut pan, then bake as directed. This way, you’ll have deliciously warm donuts that taste just as fresh as if you made them on the spot, making your mornings feel special without the rush!

Baked Pumpkin Donuts: Fun Variations

Feel free to let your creativity flourish with these delightful twists on your baked pumpkin donuts!

Chocolate Chip Addition: Mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent surprise in every bite. They’ll melt slightly, creating a lovely contrast with the soft pumpkin.
Nutty Delight: Stir in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor. The nuts toast beautifully during baking, enhancing your donut’s texture.
Glazed Finish: Top off your donuts with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for a sweet, shiny coating. It adds a lovely sweetness, giving the donuts a bakery-style finish.
Pumpkin Spice Variations: Swap pumpkin pie spice for your favorite spice blend, like chai or apple pie spice, for a unique flavor twist. Your kitchen will smell divine!
Cranberry Zing: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries to the batter for a tart, fruity contrast. The cranberries plump up while baking, providing juicy bursts in every bite!
Coconut Touch: Use shredded coconut in the batter or as a topping for a tropical twist. The coconut adds sweetness and fabulous texture, perfect for fall gatherings.
Mini Donuts: Use a mini donut pan for bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing at a gathering. Serve them warm to impress your guests!
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to create a unique sweet and spicy profile. Just a dash will elevate your donuts to a whole new level!

Each of these variations can elevate your already fantastic baked pumpkin donuts, making them a canvas for your culinary creativity. When you’re looking for more ways to enjoy fall flavors, why not try pairing them with our delightful Baked Lemon Butter Chicken for a soothing autumn meal? Enjoy!

Storage Tips for Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Room Temperature: Store your baked pumpkin donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and moist.

Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate the donuts in an airtight container for up to a week. They may lose some moisture but will still be delightful!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked pumpkin donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or pop them into a preheated oven at 350ºF for about 5 minutes. Enjoy the comforting flavors any time!

Expert Tips for Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Perfect Temperature: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing and rise. Cold ingredients can lead to denser donuts.
Gentle Mixing: Be careful not to over-mix the batter. Over-mixing can create tough textures in your baked pumpkin donuts, so fold gently!
Even Baking: Fill the donut pan cavities evenly and leave space for rising. This helps achieve uniform shapes and prevents overflow.
Fresh Ingredients: Verify that your baking powder is fresh and active. Expired baking powder may result in flat donuts that lack fluffiness.
Coating Techniques: For a delicious sugar coating, brush with melted butter before rolling in cinnamon sugar, ensuring an even glaze that sticks well.

Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
You can use canned pumpkin puree for convenience, which works perfectly in this recipe. Alternatively, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own by roasting a sugar pumpkin until tender, scooping out the flesh, and blending it until smooth. This homemade version often has a richer flavor!

How should I store these baked pumpkin donuts?
To keep your baked pumpkin donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them for up to a week, although they might lose a bit of moisture. For long-term storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the donuts?
Absolutely! Freezing these baked pumpkin donuts is a great way to enjoy them later. After baking and cooling, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the donuts to a freezer-safe container to keep them for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop them into a preheated oven at 350ºF for about 5 minutes.

What should I do if my donuts come out too dense?
If your baked pumpkin donuts turn out dense, it may be due to over-mixing the batter or using cold ingredients. Always mix just until combined and ensure your ingredients are at room temperature. For future batches, consider checking that your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents can lead to flat results.

Are these donuts suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe for various dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, substitute the milk with almond milk and use margarine or coconut oil instead of butter. If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and adjust the ratios as needed for best results!