Baked Pumpkin Donuts: Perfect Fall Treat Recipe

I’m Emma, the heart and hands behind GrandMmaDelights. My passion for cooking blossomed in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of baked goods filled the air. One of my fondest memories is of her baked pumpkin donuts, warm and comforting, perfect for cozy autumn days. These donuts have become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m thrilled to share this delightful recipe with you.

Baked pumpkin donuts are a harmony of flavors and textures that bring joy with every bite. The combination of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice captures the essence of fall, making them an irresistible treat. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee or sharing them with friends, these donuts are bound to make a lasting impression.

As we dive into this recipe, you’ll find that creating baked pumpkin donuts is simpler than it seems. With just a few ingredients and some easy steps, you’ll have a batch of these delicious treats ready to enjoy. Let’s embark on this baking journey together, and discover the magic of homemade baked pumpkin donuts.

Baked Pumpkin Donuts

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

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Description

Discover how to make delicious baked pumpkin donuts with a perfect balance of spice and sweetness. Follow our easy recipe for a cozy autumn treat that everyone will love!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 and 3/4 cups (219 g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) baking powder
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) salt
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) s ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) store-bought or homemade pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil (or canola oil or melted coconut oil)
• 3/4 cup (150 g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup (227 g) fresh or canned pumpkin puree
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) milk
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) pure vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup (150 g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk
• 1 Tablespoon (14 g) unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) pure vanilla extract
• 1 and 1/2 cups (175 g) sifted confectioners’ sugar
• Pinch of salt, to taste
• Optional : toppings, see note

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Instructions

1. Heat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease the donut pan with a non-stick spray. Put it aside for now.
2. Prepare the donuts: In a large bowl, blend together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until well mixed. Set it aside.
3. In a separate, medium-sized bowl, mix the oil, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine the wet mixture with the dry ingredients, gently folding until there are no dry bits remaining.
5. Use a spoon or a large zip-top bag with a corner cut off to fill each donut mold about halfway with the batter.
6. Bake the donuts for 10-11 minutes, or until the edges and tops are slightly golden. Use your finger to test; if the donut springs back, it’s done.
7. Let the donuts cool in the pan for 2 minutes before moving them to a wire rack. Re-grease the pan and bake any leftover batter. For mini versions, bake in a mini donut pan for 8-9 minutes.
8. Cool the donuts for at least 10 minutes before adding the icing.
9. Prepare the icing: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, milk, and butter, stirring until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
10. Let it simmer for 1 minute, then remove from the heat and whisk in the vanilla extract and sifted confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Add a small pinch of salt if you like.
11. Allow the icing to cool for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
12. Dip the tops of the donuts into the warm icing. If it becomes too thick, add a bit more milk or gently warm it to thin.
13. Place the dipped donuts on a wire rack over a baking sheet to catch any drips. Top with nuts or other toppings if you wish.
14. If used sparingly, the icing will set in about an hour, making the donuts easier to stack or transport.
15. Store any remaining donuts tightly covered at room temperature for 1-2 days or in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Notes

• Pack brown sugar firmly for proper sweetness and texture in batter and icingnUse room temperature eggs for a smoother batternSift confectioners’ sugar to avoid grainy icing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Calories: 300
• Fat: 12g
• Protein: 20g

Keywords: pumpkin donuts, baked pumpkin donuts, pumpkin spice donuts, homemade pumpkin donuts, brown sugar icing, fall donut recipe

Baked Pumpkin Donuts: The Perfect Fall Treat

Fundamentals

Creating baked pumpkin donuts starts with understanding the basics of baking. The key ingredients include all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a blend of spices that give the donuts their signature flavor. The flour provides structure, while the leavening agents ensure the donuts are light and fluffy.

Spices like cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice are essential to achieving the warm, autumnal flavor profile. These spices not only enhance the taste but also fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma. Balancing these spices is crucial for creating donuts that are flavorful without being overpowering.

Preparation/setup

Before you start, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease your donut pan with a non-stick spray. This ensures the donuts release easily after baking. In one bowl, mix your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. This step helps distribute the leavening agents and spices evenly.

In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients: oil, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, and vanilla extract. Mixing these separately ensures a smooth batter, free of lumps. The pumpkin puree not only adds flavor but also contributes moisture, resulting in soft, tender donuts.

Crafting the Perfect Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Technique

Once your dry and wet ingredients are ready, gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. This technique helps maintain the airiness of the batter, crucial for light, fluffy donuts. Avoid overmixing to prevent dense, heavy results. Fill each donut mold about halfway to give them room to rise.

Baking the donuts at the right temperature and time is vital. Bake for 10-11 minutes, checking for a slight golden hue on the edges and tops. A gentle press should make the donut spring back, indicating they’re done. Cool them in the pan for a couple of minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Tips/tricks

To ensure your donuts are consistently perfect, use a spoon or a large zip-top bag with a corner cut off to fill the molds. This method offers precision, reducing mess and waste. For an extra touch, consider adding toppings like nuts or a dash of confectioners’ sugar for a decorative flair.

If you’re looking for a variation, try making mini donuts by using a mini donut pan and baking for 8-9 minutes. This option is perfect for parties or as a fun treat for kids. The smaller size means more donuts to enjoy and share!

Enhancing Your Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Perfecting results

For the best results, allow your donuts to cool completely before adding the icing. This prevents the icing from melting off and ensures a smooth, even coat. The icing, made with brown sugar, milk, butter, and vanilla, adds a delightful sweetness that complements the spiced donut.

Dip the tops of the donuts into the warm icing, letting any excess drip off. If the icing becomes too thick, simply add a bit more milk or gently warm it to thin. This step is crucial for achieving a glossy finish that’s both beautiful and delicious.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your donuts come out dense or heavy, it might be due to overmixing or incorrect baking times. Adjust your technique by folding the batter gently and ensuring your oven is properly preheated. Experimenting with different spices or adding mix-ins like chocolate chips can offer new flavor experiences.

For those with dietary restrictions, substituting the milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk works well. Similarly, using gluten-free flour can accommodate those with gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to adjust other ingredients if necessary to maintain the right consistency.

Serving and Storing Your Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Serving/presentation

Presentation can elevate your baked pumpkin donuts from simple to stunning. Arrange them on a platter, perhaps dusted with a bit of extra confectioners’ sugar or topped with chopped nuts for a rustic touch. Serving them with a warm beverage like coffee or tea enhances the cozy experience.

For an added visual appeal, consider using seasonal decorations or serving them alongside complementary dishes like these baked apple pie rice paper rolls. This pairing not only highlights the autumn theme but also provides a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.

Pairings/storage

Your baked pumpkin donuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator, where they’ll last for up to a week. Just before serving, a quick warm-up in the oven revives their fresh-baked aroma and taste.

Pair these donuts with savory options like creamy cheesy baked crab dip for a balanced spread that caters to a variety of palates. The sweet and savory combination is sure to please guests and make any gathering memorable.

Conclusion

Baked pumpkin donuts offer a delightful taste of autumn, combining the warmth of spices with the comforting sweetness of pumpkin. This recipe is designed to be both simple and rewarding, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels. The ability to customize and adapt the recipe to suit personal preferences ensures these donuts will become a beloved staple in your home.

The utility and versatility of baked pumpkin donuts make them an excellent choice for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. Their ease of preparation and delightful flavor profile are sure to impress, creating lasting memories with every bite. Embrace the joy of home baking and the satisfaction of sharing delicious, homemade treats with loved ones.

FAQs – Baked Pumpkin Donuts