Introduction to Baked Pumpkin Donuts
As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked pumpkin donuts wafting through the kitchen. These Baked Pumpkin Donuts are not just a treat; they’re a warm hug on a chilly day. Perfect for busy moms and professionals, this recipe is a quick solution for those moments when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With their soft, moist texture and delightful spices, these donuts are sure to become a fall favorite in your home.
Print
Baked Pumpkin Donuts That Melt in Your Mouth!
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 12 donuts
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously soft and moist baked pumpkin donuts that are perfect for fall.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 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
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
- In a large bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fill each donut cavity about 2/3 full with the batter.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter.
- These donuts can be glazed or dusted with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Baked Pumpkin Donuts
These Baked Pumpkin Donuts are a dream come true for anyone juggling a busy schedule. They come together in just 33 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute treat. The delightful blend of pumpkin and spices creates a flavor that dances on your taste buds. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, so you can indulge without the guilt. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Baked Pumpkin Donuts. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pumpkin puree: The star of the show! It adds moisture and that lovely pumpkin flavor.
- Sugar: Regular granulated sugar sweetens the donuts perfectly.
- Brown sugar: This adds a hint of caramel flavor and extra moisture.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the donuts soft and tender. You can substitute with melted coconut oil for a different flavor.
- Eggs: They bind everything together and help the donuts rise.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile.
- All-purpose flour: The base of the donuts, providing structure. You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the donuts rise and become fluffy.
- Baking soda: Works with the acids in the recipe to create a light texture.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and that classic fall flavor.
- Ground nutmeg: A little goes a long way in giving a cozy, spiced taste.
- Ground ginger: This adds a zesty kick that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors.
For those who like to experiment, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for getting those Baked Pumpkin Donuts just right. While the oven warms up, grab your donut pan and give it a good greasing. I like to use a non-stick spray, but you can also brush it with a little vegetable oil. This ensures your donuts pop out easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or a spatula to mix everything until it’s smooth and well blended. The vibrant orange of the pumpkin will brighten your day, and the sweet aroma will start to fill your kitchen. Trust me, you’ll want to dive right in!
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt. This is where the magic happens! The spices will create that warm, cozy flavor we all love in fall. Make sure there are no lumps in the flour; a good whisk will do the trick.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Gently fold them together using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, and we want them light and fluffy!
Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full with the batter. This allows room for the donuts to rise without overflowing. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some chocolate chips or nuts at this stage for an extra treat. Just imagine biting into a warm donut with a gooey chocolate surprise!
Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a donut. If it comes out clean, they’re ready! The smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible, and you might find it hard to wait.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential to keep them from getting soggy. Once they’re cool, you can dust them with powdered sugar or glaze them for an extra touch of sweetness. Enjoy your homemade Baked Pumpkin Donuts with a warm cup of coffee or tea!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your pumpkin puree is pure and not pumpkin pie filling for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
- Use a piping bag for easy filling of the donut cavities.
- Experiment with spices; a pinch of allspice can add a delightful twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Equipment Needed
- Donut pan: Essential for shaping your donuts. If you don’t have one, a muffin tin works in a pinch!
- Mixing bowls: Use at least two—one for wet ingredients and one for dry.
- Whisk or spatula: Perfect for mixing ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure perfect results.
- Cooling rack: Helps donuts cool evenly; a plate can work too!
Variations of Baked Pumpkin Donuts
- Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Donuts: Fold in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite.
- Nutty Pumpkin Donuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
- Spiced Pumpkin Donuts: Enhance the spice profile by adding a pinch of cloves or allspice for a warm kick.
- Maple Glazed Donuts: Drizzle with a maple glaze made from powdered sugar and maple syrup for a sweet finish.
Serving Suggestions for Baked Pumpkin Donuts
- Pair with coffee: A warm cup of coffee or chai tea complements the flavors beautifully.
- Serve with whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a delightful touch.
- Presentation: Arrange on a decorative platter and dust with powdered sugar for a festive look.
- Enjoy with fruit: Fresh apple slices or pears make a refreshing side.
FAQs about Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, just roast it until tender, then puree it. This will give your Baked Pumpkin Donuts a fresh flavor that’s hard to beat.
How do I store leftover donuts?
Store your Baked Pumpkin Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them!
Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Just fill the donut pan and bake in the morning for fresh donuts!
What can I use instead of eggs?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try using unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture. This will keep your Baked Pumpkin Donuts moist and delicious!
Can I add frosting to my donuts?
Of course! A cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze can elevate your Baked Pumpkin Donuts to a whole new level of deliciousness. Get creative!
Final Thoughts
Making these Baked Pumpkin Donuts is more than just a cooking task; it’s a delightful experience that fills your home with warmth and joy. Each bite is a reminder of cozy fall days and cherished moments with family. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee or sharing them with loved ones, these donuts bring smiles all around. Plus, they’re so easy to whip up, even on the busiest of days! So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the pumpkin magic, and let these donuts become a beloved tradition in your kitchen.