Name: Baked Pumpkin Donuts: Easy Fall Treats for Cozy Mornings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon salt

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Baked Pumpkin Donuts: Easy Fall Treats for Cozy Mornings

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Sophie B

Saturday, November 8, 2025 12:02 am

Introduction to Baked Pumpkin Donuts

As fall rolls in and the air begins to get that crisp, cool feeling, many of us find ourselves craving cozy flavors that warm the soul. One such delightful treat is baked pumpkin donuts. These little round pieces of happiness not only provide a burst of autumn flavors but also offer a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts.

Why Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy donut that captures the essence of pumpkins, spices, and everything nice about the season. What’s not to love? The good news is that creating these baked pumpkin donuts in your kitchen is surprisingly simple. Unlike traditional fried donuts, baking these gems means you can indulge while keeping things lighter—perfect for those busy young professionals juggling tight schedules and new wellness goals.

Beyond the delicious taste, pumpkin itself is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s low in calories yet high in fiber, making it a great addition to your diet. Did you know that pumpkin is also rich in vitamins A, C, and E? Incorporating it into a donut may not qualify as “health food,” but it sure gives your sweet tooth a fighting chance (for more on the nutritional benefits, check out Healthline’s guide on pumpkin).

Plus, have you ever considered the fun of inviting friends over for a baking party? Picture it: laughter fills the air, perhaps accompanied by a warm apple cider or a homemade pumpkin latte as you create these delightful donuts together. There’s something magical about the simplicity of baking that brings people close, fills your home with inviting scents, and gives you a treat to enjoy afterwards.

So, whether you’re looking to impress at the next brunch or just want an evening activity with loved ones, baked pumpkin donuts are a fantastic option. They’re versatile enough to be served warm, dusted with sugar, or even topped with maple glaze. Let’s dive into the recipe so you can bring this delicious treat into your home!

Ingredients for Baked Pumpkin Donuts

If you’re ready to indulge in some delicious baked pumpkin donuts, let’s gather the ingredients that will bring this autumn treat to life! You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are, making it an approachable recipe for everyone, even if it’s your first time baking.

Core Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful donuts:

1 cup pumpkin puree: Opt for fresh or canned, but make sure it’s 100% pure pumpkin.
1/2 cup brown sugar: This will add that rich, caramel-like sweetness.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: For a little extra sweetness that complements the pumpkin.
1/2 cup applesauce: This keeps your donuts moist while adding apple flavor.
2 eggs: Eggs act as a binder to hold everything together.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A dash to elevate the flavor.

Dry Ingredients

Don’t forget the dry ingredients that make these donuts fluffy:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: For structure and texture.
1 teaspoon baking powder: To help those donuts rise perfectly.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Adds a little extra leavening.
1 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: Essential spices that scream ‘fall’!

Additional Tips

For more cooking tricks, check out Bon Appétit’s guide to spices to enhance your baking skills. These ingredients combine to give your baked pumpkin donuts that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Mixing wet and dry ingredients carefully will help achieve those lovely, fluffy donuts you’re going for. Happy baking!

Preparing Baked Pumpkin Donuts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about baking, especially when the end result is a warm batch of baked pumpkin donuts. These delicious treats are an ideal way to bring a touch of fall into your kitchen, regardless of the season. Follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have fluffy pumpkin donuts ready to enjoy in no time!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start mixing, it’s essential to have everything on hand. Here’s a simple list of what you need to whip up your delicious baked pumpkin donuts:

Dry ingredients:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
Wet ingredients:
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
2 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Having everything ready helps the baking process go smoothly. If you can, measure your ingredients ahead of time. It’s a handy tip from cooking enthusiasts that saves time and minimizes mess when you start mixing.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the essential wet ingredients. Start by whisking together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and pumpkin puree. Make sure to incorporate the sugars well to achieve a creamy texture. Then, add the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until fully combined—aim for a beautiful, homogenous mixture.

This combination is the heart of your baked pumpkin donuts, so take a moment to enjoy that rich, fall-inspired aroma wafting through your kitchen. Did you know that pumpkin is not just tasty but also packed with nutrients? Just one cup of pumpkin provides over 200% of your daily value of vitamin A!

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Whisk these together until they’re well mixed. This step ensures that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is key to baking success. If you’re interested in the science behind baking, many professional chefs emphasize how even minor discrepancies in ingredient ratios can significantly affect your final product.

Make the Batter

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula. The goal is to mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, and nobody wants that!

If you want to elevate your baked pumpkin donuts even more, consider incorporating chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a touch of pumpkin spice mix to give them an extra kick.

Fill the Donut Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grease a donut pan or use a silicone one for easier release. Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each cavity about two-thirds full with the batter. Make sure to smooth the tops with a spatula for an even finish.

Don’t have a donut pan? No worries! You can use a muffin tin as an alternative—just adjust the baking time.

Bake to Perfection

Place your filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The delightful scent of pumpkin and spices will fill your home, creating the ultimate baking atmosphere.

Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period allows them to set perfectly, making them easier to handle.

Before you know it, you’ll be enjoying your homemade baked pumpkin donuts! Want to get fancy? Consider adding a drizzle of cinnamon glaze or sprinkling powdered sugar on top.

Enjoy, and let your taste buds celebrate the flavor of home-baked goodness!

Variations on Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Baked pumpkin donuts are a delightful treat, and the best part is how easily they can be adapted to suit different diets and tastes. Whether you’re gluten-free, vegan, or craving a chocoholic delight, consider these variations to take your donut game to the next level.

Gluten-free Pumpkin Donuts

Who says you can’t enjoy delectable baked pumpkin donuts if you’re gluten-sensitive? By swapping regular flour for a gluten-free blend, such as almond or coconut flour, you can create delightful treats that everyone will love. Just remember, the texture may vary slightly, so don’t hesitate to experiment a bit!

Check out this fantastic gluten-free flour guide from the Gluten-Free Society for more tips on choosing the right blend.

Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Donuts

For chocolate lovers, introducing cocoa powder into your baked pumpkin donuts will elevate the flavor profile beautifully. Combine cocoa powder with your pumpkin mix and add chocolate chips for an extra indulgent touch!

1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup chocolate chips

These donuts are not just tasty; they’re perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or a decadent breakfast option!

Vegan Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Going vegan? No problem! You can easily transform your pumpkin donut recipe by substituting eggs and dairy. Use flaxseed meal combined with water as an egg replacement and almond milk instead of regular milk.

1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water (to replace one egg)
1 cup almond milk

These vegan baked pumpkin donuts will satisfy your craving without compromising your values, proving deliciousness knows no dietary boundaries!

With these enticing variations, you can make sure that everyone, regardless of their dietary needs, can enjoy the warmth and flavor of pumpkin. Ready to get baking?

Cooking Tips and Notes for Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Baked pumpkin donuts are a delightful treat, especially during fall. Here are some tips to ensure yours turn out perfectly every time.

Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree

Opt for fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned for a richer flavor. If you’re short on time, canned pumpkin is a good alternative—but don’t forget to check the label for additives. You want those naturally sweet, earthy notes to shine through!

Be Mindful of Spices

Feel free to experiment with spices! While cinnamon and nutmeg are traditional, a pinch of ginger or allspice can add an exciting twist. Adjust to your taste.

Don’t Overmix Your Batter

For the lightest, fluffiest donuts, mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense textures. Think of it as a gentle hug, not a shake!

Check Doneness Carefully

Every oven is different! Start checking your baked pumpkin donuts a couple of minutes before the recommended baking time. A toothpick should come out clean when they’re ready.

For more tips on successful baking, consider visiting sources like Serious Eats for expert advice. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions for Baked Pumpkin Donuts

When it comes to enjoying your delicious baked pumpkin donuts, the serving options are as delightful as the treats themselves! Here are some inviting ways to present and pair them for an extra special experience.

Perfect Pairings with Beverages

Enhance your pumpkin donut indulgence by pairing it with warm beverages:

Coffee: A smooth cup of coffee, whether it’s a rich espresso or a creamy latte, complements the spices in the donuts beautifully.
Chai Tea: The warming spices of chai balance the pumpkin flavors wonderfully and add a touch of coziness.

Toppings and Dips to Elevate Your Donuts

Adding a flair to your donuts can make all the difference:

Maple Glaze: Drizzling a simple maple glaze over your baked pumpkin donuts can elevate their sweetness.
Cream Cheese Frosting: A tangy cream cheese frosting dip plays nicely against the pumpkin spice and adds richness.

Creative Serving Ideas

Make your donut experience interactive and fun:

Build-Your-Own Donut Station: Set out sprinkles, nuts, or even bits of turkey bacon for guests to customize their own!
Serving on a Wooden Board: A rustic presentation by serving your donuts on a wooden board garnished with fresh apples can add aesthetic charm.

Consider these tasty suggestions to make your baked pumpkin donuts the star of the show, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your own favorite flavors! Check out this coffee pairing guide for more ideas.

Time Breakdown for Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Preparation time

Getting your baked pumpkin donuts ready is a breeze! You’ll need about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and mix up that delicious batter. Pro tip: having your spices and pumpkin puree at hand makes this step even quicker.

Cooking time

Baking those scrumptious donuts takes approximately 20 minutes. While they’re in the oven, the wonderful aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a peek!

Total time

In just about 35 minutes, you can have fresh, homemade baked pumpkin donuts on your kitchen counter, ready to impress friends or enjoy yourself. Perfect for a cozy brunch or an afternoon treat, right? If you’re interested in more time-saving tips or alternative baking methods, check out this resource on efficient baking techniques from Serious Eats.

Nutritional Facts of Baked Pumpkin Donuts

When it comes to indulgent treats like baked pumpkin donuts, it’s nice to be informed about what you’re munching on. Here’s a rundown of the nutritional aspects to keep you in the know.

Calories per donut

Each baked pumpkin donut typically contains around 150 calories. This makes them a lighter option compared to their fried counterparts, so you can enjoy one (or two) without the guilt!

Sugar content

You can expect each donut to have about 5-8 grams of sugar, depending on your recipe. If you’re watching your sugar intake, consider reducing the sweeteners or substituting with natural alternatives like maple syrup or honey.

Key nutrients

These delightful donuts pack a nutritional punch with:

Vitamin A: Thanks to the pumpkin, which is rich in carotenoids.
Fiber: Helping to keep you full and support digestion.
Antioxidants: From spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, which can promote health benefits.

For a deeper dive into the nutritional benefits of pumpkin, check out resources from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health or similar credible sites. Smart choices lead to even smarter indulgences!

FAQs About Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Can I freeze baked pumpkin donuts?

Absolutely! Baked pumpkin donuts freeze beautifully, making them a perfect treat for meal prep. To freeze, simply let them cool completely, then wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This will help prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm.

How do I store leftover donuts?

If you have any leftover baked pumpkin donuts, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just be aware that they might get a bit softer. If you prefer them a bit firmer, you can definitely refrigerate them, but you’ll want to consume them within a week for the best flavor. For even longer freshness, consider freezing them (as mentioned above) until you’re ready for a cozy treat.

What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?

No pumpkin puree? No problem! You can use several alternatives in your baked pumpkin donuts. Here are a few options:

Butternut Squash Puree: This is an excellent swap; it has a similar texture and flavor profile.
Sweet Potato Puree: Another tasty alternative that adds a slightly different but equally delicious twist.
Applesauce: This gives a moist texture, but may alter the flavor somewhat, so keep that in mind.

For more pumpkin-based inspiration, check out resources like EatingWell for creative cooking tips.

So go ahead, whether you’re enjoying them right away or saving some for later, baked pumpkin donuts are sure to brighten your day!

Conclusion on Baked Pumpkin Donuts

In summary, baked pumpkin donuts are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall in each bite. Not only are they delicious, but they also offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts. By choosing ingredients like whole wheat flour and warming spices, you can indulge guilt-free.

You might even surprise yourself with how easy they are to make! Whether you whip them up for a cozy weekend brunch or share them at a gathering, they are sure to impress. For a unique twist, consider dipping them in a maple glaze or topping them with nutty pumpkin seeds. Explore more about creative flavor combinations on Serious Eats or Bon Appétit for inspiration. Happy baking!