These pumpkin donuts are soft, fluffy, and packed with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. They’re perfect for a cozy fall treat or just to brighten up your day!
Honestly, who can resist that pumpkin goodness? I love how easy they are to make, and I can’t help but sneak an extra one (or two) when they’re fresh out of the oven!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: You can use canned pumpkin puree for convenience, but fresh pumpkin works too! Just roast and mash it before using. It has a slightly richer flavor that I love.
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect here, but for a gluten-free option, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I find it works surprisingly well without changing the texture much!
Spices: The traditional pumpkin spice mix is key here. If you don’t have nutmeg or cloves, feel free to adjust the seasoning, adding more cinnamon or even a pinch of allspice.
Oil vs. Butter: I typically use vegetable oil for a lighter texture, but melted butter adds a wonderful flavor. Choose based on what you prefer!
How Do You Get The Perfect Glaze for Donuts?
Creating the right glaze can elevate your donuts! Here are some tips for making it just right:
- Start with powdered sugar and add milk slowly to avoid a runny consistency. You want it thick enough to stick!
- If too thin, add more powdered sugar. If too thick, add more milk, a little at a time.
- Dipping donuts while the glaze is wet allows toppings to stick better. If you’re adding sprinkles or cinnamon sugar, do it right away!
This should help you make delicious pumpkin donuts with a beautiful finish! Enjoy them fresh for the best taste and texture.
How to Make Delicious Pumpkin Donuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Donuts:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- Crumble cinnamon sugar or streusel topping
- Cinnamon sugar (a mix of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pumpkin donuts recipe will take about 25 minutes for preparation and 15-17 minutes to bake, totaling roughly 40-45 minutes before you can enjoy them. Don’t forget to let them cool before glazing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, lightly grease your donut pan or spray it with nonstick baking spray. This helps ensure your donuts pop out easily after baking.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined. This is where all that delicious pumpkin flavor starts!
3. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger). Sifting helps incorporate air into the flour, making your donuts even fluffier!
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Gently mix until combined, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts, and we want them soft and tender!
5. Fill the Donut Pan:
Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each cavity of the donut pan about 3/4 full with the batter. This allows room for them to rise without overflowing.
6. Bake the Donuts:
Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-17 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Cool the Donuts:
After baking, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up and makes glazing easier!
8. Prepare the Glaze:
To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the milk as needed to reach a slightly thick but pourable consistency.
9. Glaze the Donuts:
Dunk the top of each donut into the glaze and let any excess drip off. Place them back on the wire rack. The donuts should be nicely coated!
10. Add Toppings:
If you want to add any optional toppings, sprinkle them on while the glaze is still wet. This helps them stick better. Cinnamon sugar or crumbled topping adds a lovely touch!
11. Let the Glaze Set:
Allow the glaze to set for a few moments before serving. Then, get ready to enjoy your homemade pumpkin donuts!
These pumpkin donuts are perfect with a warm cup of coffee or tea! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned Pumpkin Puree?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh pumpkin, just roast and mash it until smooth before measuring out 1 cup. Fresh pumpkin tends to have a richer flavor, which can enhance your donuts!
How Should I Store Leftover Pumpkin Donuts?
Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but be aware they may lose some of their fluffiness.
Can I Freeze Pumpkin Donuts?
Yes, you can freeze the donuts! Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!
What Can I Substitute for Eggs in This Recipe?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) for each egg. This will keep your donuts moist and delicious!
