If you’re searching for a cozy treat that captures the essence of autumn in every bite, you’re going to adore this Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe. These donuts are delightfully soft and bursting with pumpkin flavor, perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg and finished with a sweet buttery cinnamon sugar coating. They’re an absolute game-changer, offering a warm, tender texture without the heaviness of frying, making them the ideal homemade dessert or breakfast treat to share with friends and family. Trust me, once you try this recipe, these baked pumpkin donuts will become your new seasonal obsession.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create mouthwatering donuts. Each component plays a crucial role: the pumpkin puree adds moisture and natural sweetness, the spices provide that unmistakable fall flavor, and the cinnamon sugar coating gives a delightful crunch and extra burst of warmth.
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour: Gives structure and the perfect tender crumb to your donuts.
- 4 tsp baking powder: Essential for a light, fluffy rise in each donut.
- 1 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice: The star spice blend that brings warm, fragrant notes.
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg: Adds depth and a subtle nutty warmth.
- 1½ cups pumpkin puree: Moistens the dough and infuses the classic pumpkin flavor.
- 1 cup brown sugar: Gives natural sweetness along with a hint of molasses flavor.
- â…” cup vegetable oil: Keeps the donuts moist and tender.
- 2 eggs: Bind ingredients together and add richness.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors with its sweet aroma.
- 1 cup milk: Adds moisture for a soft, cake-like texture.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted: For dipping before the cinnamon sugar coating, adding a luscious buttery finish.
- 1â…“ cups granulated sugar: Mixed with cinnamon for the perfect topping crunch.
- 2 tbsp cinnamon: Blended into the sugar to give that classic sweet-spicy topping.
How to Make Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to make sure it’s hot and ready when your dough is mixed. Grease two donut pans thoroughly so the donuts release easily after baking. This little step saves you from any sticky situations down the line and helps keep those beautiful donut shapes intact.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and nutmeg. This dry mix provides the structure and flavor foundation for your donuts, ensuring an even, well-balanced distribution of those warm spices throughout the batter.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. The pumpkin puree not only adds moisture but also delivers that signature fall flavor that makes this recipe truly special.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently fold just until everything is combined and smooth. Avoid overmixing here—you want light, fluffy donuts and not dense or tough ones. Fill each donut pan cavity about three-quarters full for perfect rising and shaping.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your pans in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when gently pressed. This quick bake time maintains a tender interior that’s soft but holds its delightful donut shape.
Step 6: Butter Dip and Cinnamon Sugar Coat
As soon as the donuts come out of the oven and are still warm, dip each one into the melted butter, generously coating the surface. Immediately roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to create that irresistible crunchy sweet crust everyone loves. The warm donut, buttery coating, and sweet cinnamon sugar come together to make magic in every bite.
How to Serve Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, dust your donuts lightly with powdered sugar or add a drizzle of maple glaze for a shiny, tempting finish. A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or crystallized ginger can also add delightful texture and contrasting flavors.
Side Dishes
These donuts pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a creamy latte to balance the sweet spices. For a brunch spread, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad to create a well-rounded, festive meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe on a rustic wooden board with autumn leaves and mini pumpkins for an inviting seasonal display. You can also stack them into a donut tower for parties or drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a decadent twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep these donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They are best enjoyed within this timeframe to preserve the moist texture and crispy cinnamon sugar coating.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze cooled donuts in a freezer-safe container or bag. Separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They will keep their flavor and texture for up to a month this way.
Reheating
Reheat your frozen or refrigerated donuts by placing them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5–7 minutes until warmed through. This method refreshes their soft crumb and crispy sugary shell much better than microwaving.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?
Yes! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe and is actually the most convenient option. Just be sure to use plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with another type of oil?
Absolutely. You can use light olive oil, melted coconut oil, or even melted butter if you prefer. Keep in mind that very flavorful oils may subtly change the taste of the donuts.
Are these donuts gluten-free?
As written, this recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can experiment by swapping in a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup to make it gluten-free friendly.
Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?
If you don’t have a donut pan, you could try baking the batter in mini muffin pans or use a silicone mold designed for donuts. Keep an eye on baking times as they might vary slightly.
How long do these donuts keep their best flavor?
For the best flavor and texture, enjoy these Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe within two days of baking. After that, they tend to dry out, but reheating as described can help revive them.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the joy of making and sharing this Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe at home. They bring all the warm, inviting flavors of fall and sweet comfort in every bite while being simple enough for a weekday treat or an impressive brunch addition. So grab your ingredients and donut pans, and get ready to fill your kitchen with that irresistible pumpkin spice aroma. Your new favorite seasonal treat awaits!
