Introduction: Cozy Mornings Made Sweeter
Hey, pumpkin lovers! Let’s talk about that crisp fall feeling – leaves turning gold, mornings wrapped in sweaters, and a warm, aromatic treat fresh from the oven. That’s exactly what this Pumpkin Baked Donut Recipe delivers. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, spiced donut bursting with pumpkin flavor and coated in cinnamon sugar… Heaven, right? These aren’t just any donuts. They’re Pumpkin Cake Doughnuts Baked to perfection, bringing all the warm, cozy vibes of autumn without the mess of frying.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just dabbling, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and perfect for Easy Morning Baked Goods. And honestly, who wouldn’t want a batch of these ready for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent afternoon snack?
Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Donuts
Baked vs. Fried – Why I Choose Baking
Look, frying has its perks, but baking? Total game-changer. Fewer dishes, less oil, and a healthier option without compromising flavor. These baked pumpkin donuts are soft, tender, and perfectly spiced – every bite captures the essence of fall. Plus, the golden cinnamon sugar coating sticks beautifully without creating a greasy mess.
Comfort in Every Bite
Pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a hint of sweetness combine into a soft, cakey donut that’s utterly irresistible. Think of it as the edible equivalent of a cozy sweater – comforting, warm, and absolutely necessary for fall mornings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather your pantry favorites; you probably already have most of these. Each ingredient plays a role in creating the perfect autumn treat:
- Pumpkin Puree – The star of the show, providing rich flavor and moisture.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives the donuts structure while keeping them light and tender.
- Brown Sugar + Granulated Sugar – Adds balanced sweetness and depth.
- Vegetable Oil – Keeps the donuts moist and soft.
- Milk – You can use dairy or plant-based milk; almond or oat milk works beautifully.
- Baking Powder – Ensures your donuts rise perfectly.
- Spices – Cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin pie spice bring that classic fall warmth.
- Salt – Just a pinch to enhance flavors.
- Unsalted Butter – For that sticky, luscious cinnamon sugar finish.
Optional: Add a dash of vanilla extract for extra flavor or pumpkin spice sugar to up the cozy factor.
Step-by-Step: Making Your Baked Pumpkin Donuts
1. Prep Like a Pro
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray your donut pan with non-stick cooking spray. Pro tip: this ensures your donuts pop right out and keep their perfect shape.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and your warm fall spices. This combination is where that signature Pumpkin Spice Doughnut Recipe flavor comes from.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk. Stir until smooth and luscious – the base of our Baked Pumpkin Doughnut Recipes.
4. Combine Carefully
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Don’t overmix! Overmixing = tough donuts. We want light, fluffy Baked Pumpkin Donuts With Buttermilk texture here.
5. Pipe or Spoon the Batter
Transfer your batter to a piping bag or a Ziploc bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe evenly into each donut cavity. No piping bag? No stress – a spoon works fine.
6. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 15–16 minutes or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This extra step ensures your donuts don’t break and that the cinnamon sugar sticks perfectly.
7. Cinnamon Sugar Magic
Brush each cooled donut with melted butter and roll in cinnamon sugar. This step is what turns simple Pumpkin Donut into a mouthwatering fall treat. Don’t skip it – seriously, it’s life-changing.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Donuts
- Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: If you can, homemade pumpkin puree gives the richest flavor.
- Measure Accurately: Baking is science – slight changes can affect texture.
- Don’t Skip the Cooling Step: Cinnamon sugar adheres better to cooled donuts.
- Customize Your Spices: Adjust cinnamon, nutmeg, or add clove for your own autumn twist.
Variations to Try
- Chocolate Drizzle Pumpkin Donuts – Melt dark chocolate and drizzle on top for extra indulgence.
- Maple Glaze – Swap cinnamon sugar for a simple maple glaze.
- Spiced Nuts – Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Serving & Storing
- Serve Fresh – For ultimate flavor, eat these donuts warm from the oven.
- Storing – Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days.
- Freezing – Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then freeze up to a month. Thaw overnight at room temperature.
Pro tip: Reheat for 10 seconds in the microwave for that just-baked feel!
FAQs About Pumpkin Donuts
Q: Can I make these vegan?
A: Absolutely! Swap milk for almond or oat milk, and replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Totally! Just bake in batches to ensure even cooking.
Q: Can I use canned pumpkin?
A: Yes! Just make sure it’s 100% pumpkin puree, not pie filling with added sugar and spices.
Q: How do I make them extra moist?
A: Don’t overbake and make sure your wet ingredients are well combined. Adding a tablespoon of yogurt can also boost moisture.
Why These Donuts Are Irresistible
What makes these donuts so magical is simplicity meeting flavor. Using everyday ingredients, you get that soft, moist texture with warm, aromatic spices. Each bite is Pumpkin Recipes Donut perfection – soft, tender, and bursting with cozy fall vibes. Plus, they’re healthier than fried alternatives, making them perfect for Easy Morning Baked Goods or sharing with family and friends.
Whether it’s a weekend brunch, a Halloween bake, or just a spontaneous treat, these donuts embody everything we love about fall. And let’s be real – the smell alone is worth it. Cinnamon, pumpkin, and nutmeg wafting through the kitchen? Absolute magic.
Final Thoughts
Baking these Pumpkin Cake Doughnuts Baked is more than just making a treat; it’s about creating memories. From the first whisk to the last cinnamon sugar coating, this Pumpkin Baked Donut Recipe brings comfort, warmth, and joy to your home.
So, grab your donut pan, embrace the fall vibes, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate autumn indulgence. Trust me, once you taste these Baked Pumpkin Donuts With Buttermilk, you’ll never look back. Cinnamon sugar-coated pumpkin goodness in every bite? Yes, please. Print
Pumpkin Baked Donut Recipe | Quick & Delicious Fall Breakfast
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
Description
These baked pumpkin donuts are soft, tender, and packed with warm fall spices. Coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar glaze, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat!
Ingredients
For the Donuts:
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup milk (any kind works)
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Prep the Pan & Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan lightly with non-stick spray to make sure your donuts release easily.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk until smooth and well combined.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir together to distribute the spices evenly.
- Combine Wet and Dry
- Add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients gradually. Use a spatula to fold gently until the batter just comes together. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your donuts soft and light.
- Fill the Donut Pan
- Transfer the batter into a piping bag or a resealable zip-top bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe the batter into each donut cavity evenly, filling each about ¾ full.
- Bake the Donuts
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–16 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the donuts sit in the pan for about 10 minutes to cool slightly.
- Remove & Cool
- Carefully invert the pan to release the donuts onto a wire rack. Let them cool for at least another 10 minutes before applying the glaze.
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- Melt the butter in the microwave. Using a pastry brush (or carefully dipping each donut), coat the tops and sides with melted butter.
- In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar with cinnamon. Roll each buttered donut in the cinnamon sugar, making sure both sides are evenly coated.
- Serve & Enjoy
- These donuts are best enjoyed the same day, warm or at room temperature. Pair with coffee, tea, or your favorite fall beverage for a perfect cozy treat!
Notes
- For extra spice, sprinkle a pinch of cloves or ginger into the batter.
- Don’t skip the resting time in the pan; it prevents donuts from breaking when you remove them.
- For a lighter touch, use coconut sugar in the coating instead of granulated sugar.
