Pumpkin Spice Donuts Recipe

If your taste buds are craving something irresistibly cozy and bursting with autumnal warmth, these Pumpkin Spice Donuts are exactly what you need. Imagine soft, tender donuts infused with a fragrant blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, complemented by the natural richness of pumpkin purée. They perfectly balance a hint of sweetness and spice, making them an absolute must-bake treat for crisp mornings or a comforting afternoon snack.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Pumpkin Spice Donuts recipe lies in its simplicity, bringing together a handful of essential ingredients that each play a vital role. From the spices that fill your kitchen with fall aromas to the pumpkin that keeps each bite moist and flavorful, every component works together harmoniously.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and the perfect tender crumb in every donut.
• Brown sugar: Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness and moisture.
• Granulated sugar: Enhances sweetness and helps with browning.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Essential leavening agents for that light, fluffy texture.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves: The iconic pumpkin spice blend that creates that signature, warming flavor.
• Pumpkin purée: Brings natural moisture, richness, and that beautiful orange hue.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients while adding richness and structure.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the donuts soft and tender.
• Milk: Adds moisture and helps blend all the flavors smoothly.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and adds depth.
• Cinnamon sugar or vanilla glaze (optional): Perfect for that final touch of sweetness and texture.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the donuts bake evenly from the moment they go in. Lightly grease two 6-cavity donut pans to prevent sticking and help each donut keep its perfectly rounded shape.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together your flour, both sugars, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the fragrant pumpkin spices in a large bowl. This step ensures your spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed for consistent flavor and rise.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients Separately

In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin purée, eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and well combined. This helps to keep the batter from over-mixing when combined with dry ingredients, preventing dense donuts.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently stir until just combined. The batter should be slightly thick but spoonable. Over-mixing can lead to tough donuts, so stop as soon as the ingredients come together.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pans

Use a spoon or a piping bag to fill each donut cavity about three-quarters full. This helps the donuts rise evenly without spilling over the edges during baking.

Step 6: Bake Until Perfect

Bake your donuts for 12 to 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling step is key for easy removal and helps the donuts set properly.

Step 7: Add Your Favorite Toppings

For an extra special touch, coat your warm donuts in melted butter then toss them in cinnamon sugar, or prepare a smooth vanilla glaze for dipping once the donuts have cooled. Either option adds a lovely finishing touch that complements the warm pumpkin spices beautifully.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Garnishes

Sprinkle your Pumpkin Spice Donuts with a dusting of powdered sugar or a pinch of extra cinnamon to amplify their cozy vibe. Toasted pecans or a light drizzle of caramel sauce can also make an exciting contrast to the soft spiced base.

Side Dishes

Serve these donuts alongside a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or spiced apple cider to round out a perfect fall-inspired breakfast or snack time. Fresh fruit or yogurt can add a refreshing brightness to balance out the rich spices.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Pumpkin Spice Donuts on a rustic wooden board or tiered cake stand for a stunning display. For parties, consider dipping half the donuts in glaze and the other half in cinnamon sugar to offer guests delicious variety. Wrapping a few in parchment paper tied with twine makes a charming gift, too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Pumpkin Spice Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping them sealed preserves their moisture and softness while locking in those enticing spice aromas.

Freezing

To enjoy your donuts later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen donuts keep well for up to one month. Just thaw at room temperature when cravings strike.

Reheating

Reheat donuts gently in a microwave for about 15 seconds or warm them in a toaster oven for a crispier outer texture. This simple step brings back the fresh-baked feel and lets the spices blossom anew.

FAQs

Can I make Pumpkin Spice Donuts without a donut pan?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin to bake the batter and then carefully hollow out the centers to mimic donut holes, or bake them as mini muffins with the same delicious flavor.

Is canned pumpkin purée necessary or can I use fresh pumpkin?

Canned pumpkin purée is ideal because of its smooth, consistent texture, but you can use fresh pumpkin purée if prepared properly by cooking and pureeing fresh pumpkin until very smooth. Just ensure it’s thick and not watery.

Can these donuts be made vegan?

Yes! Replace eggs with flax eggs or applesauce, and swap vegetable oil for coconut oil or another neutral oil. Use plant-based milk and a vegan-friendly glaze for a fully vegan treat.

What’s the best way to avoid dense Pumpkin Spice Donuts?

Be careful not to over-mix your batter once wet and dry ingredients are combined, as overworking gluten can make your donuts dense. Also, measure your flour accurately and don’t overfill the pans.

Can I add frosting instead of glaze or cinnamon sugar?

Definitely! Cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with Pumpkin Spice Donuts and adds a tangy richness that complements the spices. Just spread it on once the donuts are completely cool to avoid melting.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about these Pumpkin Spice Donuts that feels like a warm hug on a crisp day. Their tender crumb, inviting spice blend, and easy adaptability make them your new go-to for any cozy occasion. Give this recipe a try and treat yourself to the delicious comfort of pumpkin spice that’s just waiting to become your next favorite baking adventure.

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