There’s something undeniably comforting about warm, freshly baked treats, especially when they include flavors that evoke the cozy essence of fall. These delightful, soft donuts are infused with pumpkin and spiced with cinnamon sugar, creating a sweet indulgence that’s hard to resist. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or served at a gathering, they bring a smile to anyone who takes a bite.
Why you’ll love this dish
These donuts are a seasonal favorite that combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with a hint of spice. The fluffy texture paired with the crispy cinnamon sugar coating creates a delightful contrast that keeps people coming back for more. They’re perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a dessert to share with friends.
“These donuts are like a warm hug on a chilly day — absolutely divine!”
When you bake these at home, you can control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and flavor, all while filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
How this recipe comes together
Making these delicious donuts is a fun process that begins with whisking together the dry ingredients and adding the wet ingredients to form a rich batter. Once combined, the mixture is poured into a donut pan, which helps create that classic shape. After a quick bake, they’re rolled in cinnamon sugar while still warm, resulting in a soft interior and sweet, crunchy exterior.
Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 10-12 min | Total Time: 25-27 min
What you’ll need
- All-purpose flour: Essential for the base of the donuts.
- Baking powder: Helps the donuts rise.
- Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient, adding moisture and flavor.
- Granulated sugar: For sweetness and a slight crunch when coated.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together.
- Milk: Adds moisture and richness.
- Cinnamon: Spices up the flavor profile.
- Vegetable oil: Ensures a tender texture.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
Feel free to substitute pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree if you want a different taste while still maintaining that wonderful texture.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, eggs, milk, and vegetable oil. Stir until smooth.
- Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.
- Pipe or spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about halfway.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, let them cool slightly before rolling in cinnamon sugar.
Best ways to enjoy it
These donuts are best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven, perhaps with a side of piquant apple cider or a carefully brewed cup of coffee. For an extra special treat, consider drizzling a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the top, or serving them alongside whipped cream for dipping.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, these donuts freeze beautifully! Just place them in a zip-top bag after they’ve cooled completely, and they’ll stay fresh for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or allow them to thaw at room temperature.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure to measure your flour correctly; spoon it into the measuring cup rather than scooping it directly to avoid dense donuts.
- Avoid over-mixing the batter; mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to maintain a light texture.
- For an extra flavor kick, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon sugar coating.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with different variations of this recipe! You can add chocolate chips or finely chopped nuts to the batter for added texture and flavor. Alternatively, try substituting different spices, like pumpkin pie spice, for a cozy twist on the classic recipe.
FAQ
Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for delicious gluten-free donuts.
What can I use instead of eggs?
For an egg substitute, try using a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equates to one egg) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg).
How long will the donuts stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container, they will remain fresh for about three days at room temperature. If frozen, they will maintain their quality for about three months.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, eggs, milk, and vegetable oil. Stir until smooth.
- Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.
- Pipe or spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about halfway.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, let them cool slightly before rolling in cinnamon sugar.
