Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts Recipe
If the idea of cozy autumn flavors dancing in fluffy, warm bites excites you, these Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts are about to be your new obsession. These donuts deliver that perfect pumpkin spice embrace, a touch of sweetness from maple syrup, and just the right crunch from a cinnamon-sugar dusting. Baked instead of fried, they’re lighter and so simple to whip up, making them ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting treat with your favorite mug of coffee or tea. Whether you’re preparing a fall brunch spread or just want an easy, soul-warming snack, you’ll love having this recipe at your fingertips!
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are simple pantry staples and just a few special touches to bring these delightful donuts together. Each ingredient plays a delicious role in crafting the signature taste and pillowy texture that make Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts irresistible.
- All purpose flour: The reliable base for tender, sturdy donuts that aren’t too dense.
- Brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness that’s perfectly cozy for fall.
- Pumpkin pie spice: The heart and soul of that warm flavor, brimming with cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.
- Baking powder: Gives the donuts lift and a wonderfully fluffy crumb.
- Baking soda: Partners with the baking powder for extra rise and lightness.
- Kosher salt: A tiny amount sharpens all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Pumpkin puree: This brings unbeatable moisture, rich color, and earthy pumpkin essence.
- Maple syrup: A hint of maple infuses extra autumn depth in every bite.
- Eggs: Essential for binding everything together, ensuring structure without heaviness.
- Coconut oil (melted): Lends a subtle coconut note and keeps the donuts extra soft (used in both batter and topping).
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the spice with lush aromatic warmth.
- Non-stick cooking spray: For easy donut release—no sticking!
- Granulated sugar: Forms that crisp, sparkly topping when tossed with cinnamon and spice.
- Ground cinnamon: Key to the irresistible cinnamon-sugar coating.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Pan
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking while you gather your ingredients. Lightly spray your donut pan with non-stick cooking spray to make sure your Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts slide out effortlessly. It might seem like a small step, but this ensures those beautiful donut shapes stay intact.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Giving these a good mix distributes everything evenly—it’s the secret behind every donut tasting just as decadent as the last.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients
Grab a separate small bowl, and whisk together the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, eggs, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. This aromatic mixture brings the real pumpkin flavor and keeps those donuts moist and tender.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients, and gently fold everything together just until you see no more streaks of flour. Avoid over-mixing—this is how you keep your Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts soft and dreamy instead of tough.
Step 5: Pipe or Spoon the Batter into the Pan
Transfer your batter into a large zip-top bag, snip a half-inch hole in the corner, and pipe the batter in circles into each donut well until they’re about three-quarters full. No zip bag? No problem! You can simply spoon the batter in. The goal is to avoid overfilling so the donuts rise with perfect, rounded tops.
Step 6: Bake to Fluffy Perfection
Bake the filled pan for 18 minutes. To check if they’re ready, insert a toothpick—it should come out clean. Once baked, carefully ease the donuts from the pan and let them cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes. This quick cooldown helps set the crumb while still letting the cinnamon sugar adhere.
Step 7: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
As the donuts are cooling, stir together the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and extra pumpkin pie spice for the topping. Lightly brush each donut with melted coconut oil, then dip or twirl them in the cinnamon sugar mix. Decide if you want both sides coated or just the tops—either way, every bite will be delicious!
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts
Garnishes
Try drifting a shower of extra cinnamon sugar on top, or add a dusting of powdered sugar for extra festivity. For an elegant touch, drizzle with a little maple glaze or add a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans. The donut’s orange hue looks stunning against a light topping, highlighting all the autumn colors.
Side Dishes
These Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts go beautifully with a mug of hot spiced apple cider, a frothy pumpkin latte, or a creamy vanilla chai. Pair with a simple fruit salad for brunch, thick Greek yogurt, or even a slice of sharp cheddar cheese, letting those sweet and spicy flavors really pop.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want a show-stopping display, pile the donuts high on a rustic wooden board or arrange them on a vintage cake stand. For fall parties, tie each donut with a ribbon or serve them on skewers. You can even make a donut “tower” centerpiece or serve mini versions on a platter for easy grab-and-go munching.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store any leftover Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Add a layer of paper towel to absorb any excess moisture and keep them as fresh as possible.
Freezing
You can easily freeze the donuts! Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep nicely for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or lightly warm them for that just-baked feel.
Reheating
To reheat, place a donut in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 4-5 minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked aroma and softens them up to perfection—just like the day you made them!
FAQs
Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?
Absolutely—homemade pumpkin puree works great in this recipe. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid to keep your Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts from becoming too moist.
Is it possible to make these donuts vegan?
Yes, you can! Swap the eggs for a flax egg and use plant-based milk if needed. The texture will still be fabulous, and you’ll keep that signature pumpkin spice flavor.
How do I make the donuts without a donut pan?
You can use a muffin tin and shape rings of aluminum foil in the center to simulate donut holes, or even bake them as “donut muffins.” The result is just as delicious, though the shape is a bit different.
Can I use a different oil instead of coconut oil?
Definitely—melted butter or a neutral oil like canola can be substituted in equal amounts for the coconut oil. Each brings its own twist: coconut oil offers subtle flavor, while butter makes them extra rich.
Are Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts suitable for kids?
They’re perfect for little hands! The sweetness is gentle, and kids will love helping dip the donuts in cinnamon sugar. Plus, the bake-not-fry method makes them a healthier treat for the whole family.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to invite the irresistible aroma of Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts into your kitchen. Every bite is like a warm hug, rich with comforting spices and autumn cheer. Whether you’re sharing them at brunch or sneaking a cozy snack, don’t be surprised when these quickly become a tradition. Give them a try and fill your home with pumpkin-spiced happiness!
Print
Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts Recipe
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 12 donuts 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the warm, comforting flavors of fall with these Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts. Perfectly spiced and moist, these donuts are a delicious treat for breakfast or any time of day.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 3 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 eggs
- 1/3 cup coconut oil (melted)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350F degrees.
In a medium bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: flour, brown sugar, pumpkin spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix to combine.
- In a separate small bowl, combine all the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, maple syrup, egg, coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to combine.
- Slowly mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, until just combined. Do not over mix.
- Using a gallon ziplock bag, pour all the batter in, push it to the corner, and cut a 1/2-inch hole on the corner to create a piping bag. Alternatively, spoon the mixture into the donut pan.
- Spray the donut pan with cooking spray and pipe the batter in a circular motion to form donuts. Only fill the donut mold about 3/4 full.
- Place in the oven for 18 minutes and then remove from the oven. Insert a toothpick; they are done if the toothpick is cleanly removed. Carefully remove the donuts from the pan using a spoon and place on a cooling rack for 5 minutes.
- While the donuts cool, combine the dry ingredients for the cinnamon topping: sugar, cinnamon, and pumpkin spice. Using a brush, lightly brush each side of the donut with the melted coconut oil and then twist/dip into the cinnamon sugar. You can coat one side or both sides. Best served/eaten fresh.
Notes
- For a more intense flavor, you can increase the amount of pumpkin pie spice in the batter.
- These donuts are best enjoyed the same day they are baked.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Pumpkin Spice, Baked Donuts, Fall Recipe, Breakfast Treat
