Baked Pumpkin Donuts: Discover Your New Fall Favorite!

Introduction to Baked Pumpkin Donuts

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked pumpkin donuts wafting through the kitchen. These Baked Pumpkin Donuts are not just a treat; they’re a warm hug on a chilly day. Perfect for busy moms like me, this recipe is quick and easy, making it a delightful solution for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Imagine surprising your loved ones with these moist, flavorful donuts that scream fall! Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your home.

Baked Pumpkin Donuts: Discover Your New Fall Favorite!

Print Recipe

Delicious and moist baked pumpkin donuts, perfect for fall.

• Author: Chef Samantha
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Yield: 12 donuts
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fill each donut cavity about 2/3 full with the batter.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

• For added flavor, consider glazing the donuts with a simple icing.
• These donuts can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Pumpkin Donuts

These Baked Pumpkin Donuts are a dream come true for anyone juggling a busy schedule. They come together in just 33 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute treat. The delightful blend of spices and pumpkin creates a flavor that’s both comforting and festive. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, so you can indulge without the guilt. Trust me, your family will be begging for seconds!

Ingredients for Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Baked Pumpkin Donuts. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pumpkin puree: The star of the show! It adds moisture and that signature pumpkin flavor.
• Sugar: Regular granulated sugar sweetens the donuts perfectly.
• Brown sugar: This adds a rich, caramel-like depth to the flavor.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the donuts moist and tender. You can substitute with melted coconut oil for a twist.
• Eggs: They provide structure and help bind everything together.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile.
• All-purpose flour: The base of the donuts, giving them that classic texture.
• Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the donuts rise and become fluffy.
• Baking soda: Works with the acids in the recipe to create a light texture.
• Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that screams fall and adds a cozy aroma.
• Ground nutmeg: This spice adds a hint of warmth and complexity.
• Ground ginger: A touch of zing that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors.

For those who like to experiment, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab your donut pan and give it a good greasing. This step is crucial to ensure your Baked Pumpkin Donuts slide out easily after baking. Trust me, no one wants a donut disaster!

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This mixture is the heart of your Baked Pumpkin Donuts, so make sure it’s well blended for maximum flavor!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. This dry mix is where the magic happens, giving your donuts that perfect rise and delightful spice. Make sure there are no lumps for a smooth batter!

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This will keep your Baked Pumpkin Donuts light and fluffy!

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full with the batter. This allows room for the donuts to rise without overflowing. It’s like giving them a cozy little bed to bake in. Your Baked Pumpkin Donuts are almost ready to go!

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Pop the donut pan into the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a donut. If it comes out clean, they’re ready! The smell will be heavenly, and you’ll be counting down the seconds!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential for that perfect texture. Now, you can enjoy your delicious Baked Pumpkin Donuts warm or at room temperature!

Tips for Success

• Use fresh pumpkin puree for the best flavor. Canned works too, but fresh is a game-changer!
• Don’t overmix the batter; it should be just combined for fluffy donuts.
• Let the donuts cool completely before glazing to prevent melting.
• Experiment with spices! A pinch of allspice or cloves can add a unique twist.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them moist.

Equipment Needed

• Donut pan: Essential for shaping your Baked Pumpkin Donuts. If you don’t have one, a muffin tin works in a pinch!
• Mixing bowls: A large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry ingredients.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients smoothly. A fork can work too!
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for baking success.
• Spatula: Great for folding and scraping the batter.

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Baked Pumpkin Donuts: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these donuts suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
• Maple Glaze: Drizzle a simple maple glaze over the cooled donuts for an extra layer of flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
• Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added nutrition.
• Spiced Pumpkin Donuts: Experiment with additional spices like cardamom or cloves for a more complex flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your Baked Pumpkin Donuts with a warm cup of spiced chai or coffee for a cozy treat.
• Serve them alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
• For a festive touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.

FAQs about Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Absolutely! Fresh pumpkin puree can elevate the flavor of your Baked Pumpkin Donuts. Just make sure to cook and blend it until smooth before using.

How do I store leftover donuts?

Store your Baked Pumpkin Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They’ll stay moist and delicious!

Can I freeze these donuts?

Yes! You can freeze your Baked Pumpkin Donuts for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

What can I use instead of eggs?

If you need an egg substitute, try using unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture. Each egg can be replaced with 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water.

How can I make these donuts healthier?

To make your Baked Pumpkin Donuts healthier, consider reducing the sugar or using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also swap in whole wheat flour for added fiber!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about baking, especially when it involves these Baked Pumpkin Donuts. The joy of pulling a warm batch from the oven, the delightful aroma filling your home, and the smiles on your loved ones’ faces make it all worthwhile. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee or sharing them at a family gathering, these donuts bring a sense of comfort and togetherness. So, roll up your sleeves and embrace the fall spirit with this easy recipe. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked!