Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

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by Alexia

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These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are a delightful treat perfect for fall! With their warm spices and dense texture, they stand out from typical fluffy donuts. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack, these donuts are quick to make and sure to please everyone. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or at room temperature!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: These donuts come together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making them ideal for busy mornings.
  • Rich Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
  • Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these donuts are great for any occasion—be it Halloween parties or Thanksgiving gatherings.
  • Moist and Dense: Unlike traditional cake donuts, these have a dense texture that makes each bite satisfying.
  • Easily Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or glazes to make them uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making these delicious donuts, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make baking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Donut pans
  • Mixing bowls (medium and large)
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cookie scoop (optional)
  • Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

  • Donut pans: These specialized pans help create the classic donut shape and ensure even baking.
  • Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients allows for better mixing and prevents lumps in your batter.

Ingredients

To make these amazing Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts, gather the following ingredients:

Dry Ingredients

  • 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

Wet Ingredients

  • 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

Topping Ingredients

  • 56 g (½ stick/4 Tbsp) unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ tsp vanilla extract
  • 100 g (½ cup) granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg (freshly ground preferred)
  • ½ tsp ground ginger

How to Make Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two or three 6-count donut pans to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. The flour,
2. Baking powder,
3. Baking soda,
4. Ground cinnamon,
5. Ground nutmeg,
6. Ground ginger,
7. Ground allspice,
8. Ground cloves,
9. Salt.
Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, vigorously whisk together:
1. Canned pumpkin puree,
2. Melted salted butter,
3. Vegetable oil,
4. Granulated sugar,
5. Light brown sugar,
6. Eggs,
7. Whole milk,
8. Vanilla extract for about 1 minute until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture gradually while whisking until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can affect the texture.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pans

Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each donut cavity about ¾ full with batter. Use a #24 cookie scoop (3 Tbsp) for each donut; some pans may require up to ¼ cup (#16 scoop / 4 Tbsp).

Step 6: Tap and Bake

Tap the filled pans on a towel-lined counter about ten times to even out the batter before placing them in the oven. Bake for 10-14 minutes until golden brown; a toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool Down

Let the donuts cool in their pans for approximately 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare Topping

While cooling, melt unsalted butter in a small bowl and stir in additional vanilla extract. In another bowl, combine granulated sugar with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

Step 9: Coat the Donuts

While still warm, brush or dip each donut in melted vanilla-butter then roll them in the sugar-spice mixture until fully coated.

Step 10: Serve

Enjoy your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts warm or at room temperature! They also reheat well in the microwave for those late-night cravings!

How to Serve Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them at breakfast, as a snack, or serving them at a gathering, there are many delightful ways to present these treats.

With Coffee or Tea

  • Pair your donuts with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning experience.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

  • For an extra touch of sweetness, dust the donuts with powdered sugar before serving. This adds a lovely presentation and flavor.

With Cream Cheese Frosting

  • Spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting on top for a rich and tangy contrast that perfectly complements the pumpkin flavor.

Served Warm

  • Serve the donuts warm straight from the oven. The warmth enhances their moistness and brings out the spices.

With Fresh Fruit

  • Add slices of fresh apples or pears on the side for a refreshing balance to the sweet donuts.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

  • Include your pumpkin donuts on a dessert platter alongside other seasonal treats like apple cider cookies or pecan pie bars for variety.

How to Perfect Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

To make sure your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

  • Use Fresh Spices: Always opt for freshly ground spices if possible. They enhance flavor and make your donuts taste more aromatic.
  • Don’t Overmix: Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can result in dense donuts instead of light ones.
  • Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at 350°F. An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and texture.
  • Cool Before Coating: Allow the donuts to cool slightly before coating them in sugar. This helps the sugar stick better without melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts pair well with various sides that enhance their flavors. Here are some delightful options to consider:

  1. Apple Cider: The seasonal favorite beverage complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
  2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a nutritious addition.
  3. Cheese Board: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for creamy contrasts.
  4. Salad with Nuts: A mixed green salad topped with nuts adds crunch and freshness.
  5. Nut Butter: Serve almond or peanut butter on the side for an additional protein boost.
  6. Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits can provide a refreshing palate cleanser alongside the sweet donuts.
  7. Granola Bars: For an on-the-go option, granola bars add a chewy texture that pairs nicely with donuts.
  8. Hot Chocolate: A rich hot chocolate makes for a comforting drink pairing during chilly days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts even better. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

  • Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold ingredients can affect the batter’s consistency. Always bring eggs and milk to room temperature for a smoother mix.
  • Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense donuts. Mix just until combined for the perfect texture.
  • Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Incorrectly measuring flour can ruin the recipe. Use the spoon-and-level method to ensure accuracy.
  • Underbaking the Donuts: If you pull them too early, they may be soggy. Bake until golden brown and check with a toothpick for doneness.
  • Neglecting to Grease Pans Properly: Sticking donuts can spoil your fun. Ensure your pans are well-greased before pouring in the batter.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store the donuts in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

  • Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
  • Separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Reheating Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat donuts for about 5 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat individually for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
  • Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! You can use fresh pumpkin puree, but make sure it’s well-cooked and smooth.

How do I know when my donuts are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

How can I customize my Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits for extra flavor!

Final Thoughts

These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are not only delicious but also versatile! With their cozy flavors, they’re perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Get creative by adding your favorite spices or toppings, and enjoy this delightful fall treat!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts


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  • Author: Alexia
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Description

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts, a delightful treat perfect for autumn. These moist and dense donuts are infused with a blend of rich pumpkin and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating an irresistible bite. Quick to prepare in just 15 minutes, they are ideal for busy mornings or cozy afternoon snacks. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or at room temperature, these donuts are sure to please everyone. Customize them with your favorite toppings for a unique twist!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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 for topping
  • ¼ tsp vanilla extract for topping
  • 100 g (½ cup) granulated sugar for topping
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon for topping
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg for topping
  • ½ tsp ground ginger for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two or three 6-count donut pans to prevent sticking.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, ground allspice, ground cloves, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
  3. In a large bowl, vigorously whisk together the canned pumpkin puree, melted salted butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, whole milk, and vanilla extract for about 1 minute until well combined.
  4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture gradually while whisking until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can affect the texture.
  5. Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each donut cavity about ¾ full with batter.
  6. Tap the filled pans on a towel-lined counter about ten times to even out the batter before placing them in the oven.
  7. Bake for 10-14 minutes until golden brown; a toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs.
  8. Let the donuts cool in their pans for approximately 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. While cooling, melt unsalted butter in a small bowl and stir in additional vanilla extract. In another bowl, combine granulated sugar with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
  10. While still warm, brush or dip each donut in melted vanilla-butter then roll them in the sugar-spice mixture until fully coated.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 donut (50g)
  • Calories: 164
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 116mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 38mg

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