Table of Contents
Introduction about Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Have you ever craved a delightful treat that embodies the comfort and warmth of fall? If so, you’re in for a real treat with these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts! Perfectly spiced, moist, and just the right amount of sweet, these donuts bring the taste of autumn right to your kitchen. Picture this: a fluffy donut, coated in a cinnamon-sugar blend, fresh out of the oven. Doesn’t that sound irresistible?
Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a delightful snack, or something special to serve at a gathering, these donuts tick all the boxes. The best part? They’re incredibly simple to make! You don’t need any fancy equipment or baking prowess; just a few basic ingredients, and you’re ready to go. This recipe not only showcases the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices but also provides a fun and easy cooking experience. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into these mouthwatering Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts!
Key Benefits of Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Spiced: Packed with the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, every bite is a taste of fall.
- Quick and Easy: You can whip these donuts up in no time with minimal fuss.
- Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried, these donuts are a lighter option for your sweet tooth.
- Family-Friendly: Perfect for kids and adults alike, these donuts are sure to please the whole family.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins or toppings for a personal touch.
- Makes Plenty: With the ability to make two or three donut pans worth, there are enough to share!
What Makes It Stand Out
What truly sets these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts apart is their versatility. They are not just a seasonal treat; you can enjoy them year-round! With canned pumpkin puree easily available, you can embrace the flavors of fall no matter the month.
Moreover, this recipe embraces creativity. Feel free to experiment with different spices, add chocolate chips, or incorporate nuts for an extra crunch. The options are endless, and that’s what makes baking fun! Whether served at a cozy family breakfast or a festive gathering, these donuts will surely become a cherished favorite.
Ingredients for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Complete Ingredient List with Measurements
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delightful donuts:
- 210 g (1¾ cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg (freshly ground preferred)
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp ground allspice
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp salt
- 240 g (1 cup) canned pumpkin puree (Libby’s preferred)
- 57 g (½ stick / 4 Tbsp) salted butter, melted
- 60 ml (¼ cup) vegetable oil
- 100 g (½ cup) granulated sugar
- 100 g (½ cup) light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 60 ml (¼ cup) whole milk, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Substitutes and Alternatives
If you have dietary restrictions or personal preferences, here are some common substitutes:
- Gluten-Free Flour: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to replace all-purpose flour.
- Dairy-Free Options: Substitute the butter with a non-dairy alternative and use almond or oat milk instead of whole milk.
- Lower Sugar: You can reduce the granulated sugar and replace some with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter option.
- Egg Alternatives: Flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) work well if you need a vegan option.
How to Make Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts – Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1 – Prep Your Workspace and Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two or three 6-count donut pans. This ensures your donuts will slide right out after baking.
Step 2 – Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine your dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, cloves, and salt. Whisk these together until they’re well mixed, and set them aside. This step ensures that your spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 3 – Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, melted salted butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix vigorously for about 1 minute until everything is well incorporated and slightly thickened. This will create a rich, flavorful base for your donuts.
Step 4 – Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to merge the dry ingredients with the wet mixture. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking gently until everything is just combined. You don’t want to overmix, as that can lead to denser donuts. The mixture should be thick and slightly lumpy.
Step 5 – Fill the Donut Pans
Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each donut cavity about ¾ full with the batter. For a more precise method, use a #24 cookie scoop (3 tablespoons) per donut. Certain pans may require a #16 scoop (4 tablespoons) for optimal filling. This will allow the donuts to rise beautifully in the oven.
Step 6 – Tap the Pans
After filling the pans, gently tap them on the counter lined with a towel about 10 times. This step helps remove any air bubbles and evens out the batter for perfectly shaped donuts.
Step 7 – Bake the Donuts
Place the filled pans in the preheated oven and bake for 10-14 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re ready when they turn golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. This is a crucial moment, so don’t rush!
Step 8 – Cool the Donuts
Allow the donuts to cool in the pans for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures they don’t become soggy and helps maintain their lovely texture.
Step 9 – Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, melt some unsalted butter and stir in a little extra vanilla extract. In another bowl, mix together granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This mixture will give your donuts that delightful finishing touch when they’re warm.
Step 10 – Coat the Donuts
While the donuts are still warm, lightly brush or dip them in the melted vanilla-butter. Then roll them in the sugar-spice mixture until they are fully coated. This is where they truly transform into delicious little bites of joy!
Serving Suggestions for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Best Occasions to Serve This Dish
These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on many occasions:
- Breakfast: Serve warm with coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat.
- Afternoon Snack: Perfect with a cup of cocoa or apple cider.
- Fall Gatherings: An excellent addition to Thanksgiving or Halloween parties.
- Just Because: Who needs an occasion? A cozy evening at home with family is just as good a reason!
What to Serve with It
To elevate your donut experience, consider these pairings:
- Drinks: Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or apple cider.
- Toppings: Cream cheese frosting, caramel sauce, or whipped cream.
- Sides: Fresh fruit, yogurt, or a hearty breakfast casserole.
Storing Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Properly
Best Storage Practices
To keep your donuts fresh, follow these storage tips:
- Room Temperature: Store cool donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Alternatively, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before eating.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donuts in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll last for 2-3 months.
Reheating and Freezing Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen donuts:
- Thawing: Simply transfer them to the fridge overnight or leave them at room temperature for a few hours.
- Reheating: Microwave them for about 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked feel. Avoid overheating, as this can make them tough.
Tips & Tricks for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts, here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to dense donuts. Mix just until combined.
- Not Filling the Pans Correctly: Regularly check how full you fill the donut cavities. Overfilling can cause them to overflow.
- Ignoring the Toothpick Test: Always check the center of the donuts; they should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Extra Tips for Better Results
To make your baking experience even better, try these tips:
- Use Fresh Spices: Ground spices can lose their potency over time, so fresh spices will enhance flavors significantly.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the eggs and milk are at room temperature to help create a well-emulsified batter.
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings, from crushed nuts to a drizzle of chocolate!
Recipe Variations of Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Creative Twists
These donuts serve as a fantastic base, so feel free to play around with the recipe:
- Nuts: Add walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
- Chocolate: Incorporate chocolate chips into the batter for a delightful surprise.
- Seasonal Flavors: Infuse with orange zest for a citrusy kick or replace spices with pumpkin pie spice for a shortcut.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need to accommodate specific dietary needs, consider these adjustments:
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup in place of all-purpose flour.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute all dairy with plant-based alternatives, including the butter and milk.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and butter options.
Conclusion about Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
In summary, these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are not only simple to make, but they also deliver a delightful taste that’s sure to impress. With their warm spices and soft texture, they make a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them on a crisp autumn morning or as a sweet snack throughout the day, they embody the essence of cozy comfort.
We encourage you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Share your thoughts and variations; baking is always more fun when shared! Enjoy your journey to making the perfect Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts!
FAQs about Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
What if it doesn’t turn out right?
If your donuts come out dense or flat, don’t fret! Ensure you’re measuring your flour correctly, using the scoop-and-level method. Also, check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the batter a day ahead and store it in the fridge overnight. Just give it a gentle stir before filling the pans and baking.
What are the best ingredient substitutions?
You can use applesauce for some butter, flax eggs for regular eggs, and coconut milk instead of whole milk to suit different dietary needs.
How long can it be stored?
When stored correctly, these donuts last up to three days at room temperature, about a week in the fridge, and two to three months in the freezer.
Can I use store-bought dough or crust?
While store-bought dough isn’t recommended for this recipe, you can modify your favorite donut dough recipe to include pumpkin for some fall flavor.
Is this recipe kid-friendly or family-appropriate?
Definitely! These donuts are perfect for kids, and the process of making them can be a fun family activity.
Can I make this recipe allergen-free?
Yes! By substituting gluten-free flour, dairy-free milk and butter, and using flax eggs, you can easily make these donuts allergen-free.
Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 210 g all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg (freshly ground preferred)
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp ground allspice
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 240 g canned pumpkin puree (Libby’s preferred)
- 57 g salted butter, melted (½ stick / 4 Tbsp)
- 60 ml vegetable oil
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 100 g light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 60 ml whole milk (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients and tools. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two or three 6-count donut pans.
- In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, cloves, and salt. Whisk until well mixed. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, melted butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until well incorporated and thickened.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking gently until just combined.
- Fill each donut cavity about ¾ full with the batter, using a spoon or piping bag.
- Gently tap the filled pans on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
Baking
- Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 10-14 minutes, or until they turn golden and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the donuts to cool in the pans for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Topping
- Melt some unsalted butter and stir in extra vanilla extract. In another bowl, mix together granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- While the donuts are warm, brush or dip them in the melted butter, then roll in the sugar-spice mixture.