Table of Contents
Introduction about Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Are you ready to bake something wonderfully autumnal and delicious? If you love the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice and the comfort of soft, warm donuts, this Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts recipe is just for you! Imagine sinking your teeth into a fluffy donut that tastes like a hug in dessert form. Doesn’t that sound delightful?
These donuts are not only scrumptious, but they are also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering, a cozy weekend breakfast, or just craving a sweet treat, this recipe is perfect. You can whip up a batch with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Plus, if you’re a pumpkin enthusiast, this recipe will definitely become your go-to for the season.
What sets these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts apart? It’s all about the harmonious blend of warm spices and the rich texture of pumpkin puree. Dive into this article to discover the simplicity, joy, and charm of making these delightful donuts!
Key Benefits of Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Tasty: The blend of spices and pumpkin creates a flavor that’s irresistibly good.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have these donuts baked in no time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
- Family-Friendly: Kids will love helping out and eating these sweet treats.
- Fabulously Seasonal: Bring the essence of fall into your kitchen with every bite.
- Customizable: Add your favorite nuts or toppings to make them uniquely yours.
What Makes It Stand Out
This recipe shines not only for its delightful flavors but also for the approachability it offers to both novice and seasoned bakers. The ease of preparation means you can involve your kids in the kitchen, making wonderful memories together. Plus, since you can make these donuts without frying, they are a cleaner option that still delivers on taste.
The seasonal use of pumpkin makes this recipe perfect for fall but delightful year-round. You can enjoy these donuts anytime, especially when you’re looking for a quick, fuss-free treat that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. You can even customize the spices based on your family’s preferences or try different glazes to keep things interesting!
Ingredients for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Complete Ingredient List with Measurements
- 210 g (1¾ cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp ground allspice
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp salt
- 240 g (1 cup) canned pumpkin puree
- 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
- 56 g (½ stick/4 Tbsp) unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract (for coating)
- 100 g (½ cup) granulated sugar (for coating)
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg (for coating)
- ½ tsp ground ginger (for coating)
Substitutes and Alternatives
- Flour: For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Sugar: Coconut sugar can be swapped for granulated or brown sugar.
- Butter: Use dairy-free butter or oil for a vegan option.
- Milk: Almond milk or oat milk works well as a dairy-free substitute.
- Pumpkin Puree: You can use butternut squash puree in place of pumpkin for a different flavor profile.
How to Make Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts – Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1 – Prep Your Workspace and Ingredients
Before you dive into making these delicious donuts, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients and tools. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your donut pans. This step ensures your donuts will pop out easily once they’re baked.
Step 2 – Whisk Together the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, all your spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and cloves), and salt. Whisking these dry ingredients together helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices for the best flavor and texture.
Step 3 – Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a larger bowl, you’ll want to whisk together the wet ingredients: canned pumpkin puree, melted salted butter, vegetable oil, both types of sugar, eggs, room temperature milk, and vanilla extract. It’s best to make sure everything is well combined and smooth. The combination of these ingredients will provide moisture and sweetness to your donuts.
Step 4 – Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture. Gently mix using a spatula or a wooden spoon. Avoid over-mixing; you want just enough blending so that no dry flour spots show. The batter should be thick and luscious.
Step 5 – Fill the Donut Pans
Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each donut cavity about ¾ of the way full with the batter. This ensures that the donuts have room to rise without overflowing. If using a piping bag, it’s tidy and fun!
Step 6 – Tap the Pans
Give your filled pans a gentle tap on the counter. This helps to eliminate any air bubbles in the batter and evens out the donut shape. Making sure they’re settled helps in baking evenly.
Step 7 – Bake
Place the donut pans in your preheated oven and bake for 10-14 minutes. Keep an eye on them! They’re done when they turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 8 – Cool in the Pans
Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pans for about 5 minutes. This short resting time allows them to set and not fall apart when transferred. After that, carefully turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 9 – Prepare the Coating
While the donuts are cooling, melt the unsalted butter in a small bowl and stir in the extra vanilla extract. In another bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This mixture will add a sweet and spicy touch to your donuts.
Step 10 – Coat the Donuts
While the donuts are still warm, brush them with melted butter or dip them directly into the butter and then roll them in the sugar-spice mixture. Enjoy the fragrant aroma as you coat them! This step adds a deliciously sweet finish that completes your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts.
Serving Suggestions for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Best Occasions to Serve This Dish
These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts can shine at any occasion! Consider them for:
- Sunday brunch with family or friends
- Halloween parties or autumn gatherings
- Cozy coffee dates or snacks
- Sharing with neighbors or bringing to holiday potlucks
What to Serve With It
To elevate your pumpkin donut experience, consider these delicious pairings:
- Warm apple cider
- Coffee or tea
- Whipped cream or cream cheese frosting
- Chocolate drizzle or caramel sauce
- Chopped nuts for a crunch
Storing Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Properly
Best Storage Practices
To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you’d like to prolong their shelf life, place them in the fridge, where they will last up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-friendly bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating and Freezing Tips
When you’re ready to eat the frozen donuts, let them thaw at room temperature or in the fridge overnight. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Be mindful not to overheat them, as this could dry them out!
Tips & Tricks for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: This can lead to tough donuts. Mix until ingredients are just combined.
- Skipping the greasing step: Be generous with your pan grease or they may stick!
- Baking at the wrong temperature: Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary to ensure accurate baking.
Extra Tips for Better Results
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add more or less spice depending on your taste preferences.
- Add-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Drizzle with icing: For a sweet finish, a light vanilla glaze can really make them pop!
Recipe Variations of Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Creative Twists
To make these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts truly your own, try adding:
- Chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch.
- Dried cranberries or chocolate chips for bursts of flavor.
- Different spices, such as cardamom or extra cinnamon for added warmth.
Dietary Adjustments
If you or your loved ones have dietary restrictions, here’s how you can customize the recipe:
- Gluten-Free: Use a certified gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free/Vegan: Swap milk for plant-based milk, and use non-dairy butter.
- Lower Sugar: Substitute with sugar alternatives like Stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
Conclusion about Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
In summary, these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are not just tasty; they also offer simplicity and joy in baking. The cozy flavors of pumpkin and spices make them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual treat or a festive dessert.
So why not give this recipe a try? You might find that it becomes a beloved staple in your home. I encourage you to share your results and tweak it to perfectly suit your tastes. These donuts are calling your name, ready to bring comfort and happiness to your kitchen!
FAQs about Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
What if it doesn’t turn out right?
If your donuts don’t rise or turn out dense, it may be due to old leavening agents (baking powder or baking soda) or overmixing the batter. Double-check those ingredients for freshness!
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day ahead and store it covered in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before filling your donut pans.
What are the best ingredient substitutions?
For allergen-friendly options, use gluten-free flour, dairy-free butter, and plant-based milk. Feel free to adjust based on your dietary needs!
How long can it be stored?
If kept in an airtight container, your baked donuts can last up to 1-2 days at room temperature or about a week in the refrigerator.
Can I use store-bought dough or crust?
While this recipe is designed for homemade batter, store-bought dough won’t capture the same flavor or texture! It’s worth trying the homemade version.
Is this recipe kid-friendly or family-appropriate?
Definitely! The sweet flavors are appealing to kids, and they can help with mixing and coating, making it a fun family activity.
Can I make this recipe allergen-free?
Yes! Easily swap out ingredients for gluten-free flour, a non-dairy butter for vegan options, and use plant-based milk for a complete allergen-friendly version.
Feel free to jump in and have fun baking these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts!
Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 210 g all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 0.25 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 0.5 tsp ground nutmeg
- 0.5 tsp ground ginger
- 0.25 tsp ground allspice
- 0.25 tsp ground cloves
- 0.5 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 240 g canned pumpkin puree
- 57 g salted butter, melted
- 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
Coating
- 56 g unsalted butter, melted
- 0.25 tsp vanilla extract (for coating)
- 100 g granulated sugar (for coating)
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
- 0.5 tsp ground nutmeg (for coating)
- 0.5 tsp ground ginger (for coating)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your donut pans.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and cloves, along with salt.
- In a larger bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, melted butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix gently to combine.
- Fill each donut cavity about ¾ of the way full with the batter.
- Tap the pans gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.
Baking
- Bake the donuts in the preheated oven for 10-14 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow them to cool in the pans for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Coating
- While the donuts are cooling, melt the unsalted butter and mix with extra vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Brush or dip the warm donuts in the melted butter, then coat in the sugar-spice mixture.