Baked Pumpkin Donuts

If you’re craving all the cozy fall flavors, these Baked Pumpkin Donuts are just the treat. Baked (not fried!) and topped with a rich brown sugar icing, they’re soft, moist, perfectly spiced, and ready in under 45 minutes. The icing sets beautifully, so the donuts are easy to stack, store, and transport—making them just as practical as they are delicious! Perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack, these donuts will impress at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, perfect for those busy days!
• Moist and Flavorful: The blend of pumpkin puree and spices creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Options: Transform them into muffins or mini donuts based on your preference.
• Family Friendly: Kids love these delightful treats—great for family gatherings!
• Ideal for Fall: Capture the essence of autumn with every bite.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Baked Pumpkin Donuts, having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Donut pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Silicone spatula or wooden spoon
• Zipped-top bag (for piping)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Donut pan: Ensures your donuts have the perfect shape and texture.
• Mixing bowls: Allows for easy mixing of dry and wet ingredients without spills.
• Silicone spatula or wooden spoon: Ideal for folding ingredients gently without overmixing.

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

• 1 and 3/4 cups (219g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon store-bought or homemade pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil (or canola oil or melted coconut oil)
• 3/4 cup (150g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup (226g) fresh or canned pumpkin puree
• 1/3 cup (80ml) milk, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Icing:

• 3/4 cup (150g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk (whole milk is best)
• 1 Tablespoon (14g) unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 and 1/2 cups (170g) sifted confectioners’ sugar
• Pinch of salt, to taste
• Optional topping: crushed walnuts

How to Make Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease donut pan(s) with nonstick spray. Set aside.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the oil, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, and vanilla extract until combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Using a silicone spatula or wooden spoon, fold everything together gently just until combined; ensure no flour pockets remain.

Step 4: Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon the batter into the donut cavities. For ease, transfer the batter into a large zipped-top bag. Cut a corner off the bottom of the bag and pipe it into each donut cavity, filling each about halfway.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 10–11 minutes or until edges and tops are lightly browned. Test by poking your finger into the top of a donut; if it bounces back, they’re done.

Step 6: Cool Down

Cool donuts in the pan for 2 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Re-grease the pan if necessary and bake any remaining batter. For mini donuts, bake in a mini donut pan for 8–9 minutes. Allow cooling for at least 10 minutes before icing them.

Step 7: Prepare Icing

Combine brown sugar, milk, and butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until melted and smooth. Bring to a simmer; allow to simmer for 1 minute before removing from heat. Whisk in vanilla extract and sifted confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Taste; add a pinch of salt if desired. Let cool for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 8: Ice the Donuts

Dip the tops of warm donuts into icing. If it thickens too much while dipping, whisk in more milk or reheat slightly to thin it out.

Step 9: Drip Excess Icing

Place dipped donuts on a cooling rack over a baking sheet to catch excess icing drips. Top with chopped nuts if desired. The icing will set in about an hour for stacking or transporting.

Step 10: Store Leftovers

Cover leftover donuts tightly. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to one week.

Enjoy your deliciously spiced Baked Pumpkin Donuts!

How to Serve Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Serving baked pumpkin donuts can be a delightful experience, especially when you pair them with complementary flavors and textures. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these delicious treats.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair your donuts with a warm cup of coffee or tea to enhance the cozy fall flavors. The warmth of the beverages complements the spices in the donuts beautifully.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle pure maple syrup over the top. This adds a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.

Topped with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on each donut for a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet donut base.

Served with Fresh Fruit

• Accompany your donuts with fresh fruit like apple slices or berries, adding freshness and a bit of acidity to balance the sweetness.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include baked pumpkin donuts in a fall-themed brunch alongside other pastries, muffins, and seasonal fruits for a delightful spread.

How to Perfect Baked Pumpkin Donuts

To ensure your baked pumpkin donuts turn out soft, moist, and flavorful every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing eggs and milk to room temperature helps create a smoother batter and improves texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts.
• Check for Doneness: Use the bounce test; if the tops spring back when touched lightly, they are done baking.
• Cool Before Icing: Allow the donuts to cool slightly before dipping them in icing. This prevents it from melting too quickly.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Baked pumpkin donuts can be enhanced by serving them with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Cinnamon Apples: Saute sliced apples in cinnamon and sugar for a warm, comforting side that matches the spice profile of the donuts.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a refreshing contrast that balances sweetness.
3. Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses, such as brie or sharp cheddar, offers a savory counterpoint to the sweet flavors of the donuts.
4. Nut Mix: A mix of spiced nuts provides crunch and flavor that pairs well with the soft texture of baked pumpkin donuts.
5. Pumpkin Spice Latte: Enjoy these donuts alongside this classic fall beverage for an extra dose of pumpkin flavor.
6. Sweet Potato Hash: A savory sweet potato hash brings heartiness to your meal while maintaining seasonal flavors.
7. Chai Tea: Serve with chai tea for added warmth and spice that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
8. Maple Glazed Bacon (Turkey): For those who enjoy savory bites, turkey bacon glazed with maple syrup creates a sweet and salty pairing that works well with pumpkin flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making baked pumpkin donuts can be a delight, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:

• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense donuts. Mix until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Skipping the preheating: Not preheating your oven can result in uneven baking. Always preheat to ensure consistent cooking.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or milk can affect the batter’s consistency. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
• Ignoring the baking time: Baking for too long can dry out your donuts. Keep an eye on them and use a toothpick to check doneness.
• Not letting the icing cool: If you dip warm donuts into hot icing, it may run off too quickly. Allow the icing to cool slightly for better adhesion.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store baked pumpkin donuts in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Pumpkin Donuts

• Place cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Baked Pumpkin Donuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual donuts for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, warming each donut for 1-2 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Baked Pumpkin Donuts so special?

These baked pumpkin donuts are soft, moist, and bursting with fall flavors. The brown sugar icing adds a delightful sweetness that complements the pumpkin perfectly.

Can I make mini Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

Yes! Simply use a mini donut pan and adjust the baking time to about 8-9 minutes for smaller treats.

How do I customize my Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit into the batter before baking for added flavor and texture.

Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh pumpkin puree will work just as well and may enhance the flavor of your baked pumpkin donuts.

How should I store leftover Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for up to 1 week.

Final Thoughts

These baked pumpkin donuts are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect as a cozy breakfast or a sweet snack, they can be customized with different toppings or mix-ins. Try this recipe today and enjoy all the warm flavors of fall!