The aroma of freshly baked goods fills your kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine biting into a fluffy pumpkin donut—lightly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg—while sipping on your favorite coffee. The combination is pure bliss!
I remember the first time I made these delightful pumpkin donuts during a crisp October morning. My friends couldn’t resist the enticing smell wafting through my home. They arrived at my door faster than you can say “pumpkin spice,” eager to devour every last bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe offers an easy way to enjoy the flavors of fall without the fuss of frying.
- Perfect for sharing with family or friends, they’re visually appealing with their golden-brown hue.
- The delightful spiced flavor satisfies your sweet cravings while keeping them light and fluffy.
- Whether for breakfast or dessert, these donuts fit any occasion perfectly.
One unforgettable morning, I served these pumpkin donuts to my family while they sipped their hot chocolate. Their delighted reactions made me realize how something so simple could create such joy.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: A versatile staple that gives our donuts structure and fluffiness.
- Pumpkin Puree: Use canned or homemade puree for that rich, autumn flavor; just avoid the spiced variety.
- Granulated Sugar: This sweetener balances the spices and enhances the overall flavor of the donuts.
- Baking Powder: Essential for achieving that perfect rise; make sure it’s fresh!
- Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices add warmth and a festive touch to each bite; don’t skip them!
- Eggs: They bind everything together while adding moisture; use large eggs for best results.
- Milk: Whole milk works best here to keep our donuts tender and moist.
- Vanilla Extract: For an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
- Butter: Melted butter adds richness; don’t forget to let it cool before mixing!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a donut pan by greasing it lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk until blended; this will ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. The beautiful orange color will get you excited about what’s coming!
Add Wet to Dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients bowl. Stir gently until just combined; overmixing can lead to dense donuts—no one wants that!
Fill the Pan: Use a piping bag or spoon to fill each donut cavity about halfway with batter. Don’t worry if some batter spills over; they’ll be delicious regardless!
Bake Away: Place your filled pan in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until they’re golden brown and spring back when touched lightly. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
A quick tip: You can test for doneness by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean—voilà! Your delightful treats are ready.
Once baked and cooled slightly in the pan (about 5 minutes), transfer them onto a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
Enjoy these scrumptious baked pumpkin donuts as an excellent addition to your breakfast spread or as an irresistible snack throughout the day!
You Must Know
- Baking pumpkin donuts is a delightful experience.
- The warm, spicy aroma fills your kitchen, instantly bringing comfort.
- These donuts are fluffy and moist, perfect for any occasion.
- Plus, they’re a healthier alternative to fried donuts without sacrificing flavor!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by mixing your dry ingredients first, then fold in the wet ingredients until just combined. This method prevents overmixing, ensuring tender results.
Add Your Touch
Try adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts for an extra crunch. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top can elevate the flavor profile too!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature. For reheating, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore warmth.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve that perfect texture, avoid overmixing the batter; it’s okay if there are a few lumps!
- For added moisture, consider incorporating applesauce into the mix.
- Lastly, don’t skip the cooling rack; it prevents sogginess and enhances that delightful crust.
Creating these delicious pumpkin donuts reminds me of cozy autumn mornings spent with my family. The laughter and sweet scents from the kitchen always made those moments special.
FAQ
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s well-puréed and not too watery for best results.
How long do these donuts stay fresh?
These pumpkin donuts stay fresh for about 3 days when stored properly.
Can I freeze pumpkin donuts?
Yes! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months for later enjoyment.
Irresistible Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Baked pumpkin donuts are a delightful fall treat, combining warm spices and pumpkin puree for a fluffy, sweet indulgence. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack any time of day.
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp melted butter (cooled)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, egg, melted butter, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine wet ingredients into dry ingredients; stir until just mixed.
- Fill the donut cavities halfway with batter.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and springy to the touch.
- Let cool slightly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider tossing in chocolate chips or chopped nuts.
- sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before serving can enhance sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
