Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are not only irresistibly moist and fluffy but are also baked instead of fried, making them a healthier option. Ready in just 20 minutes, they make for a fantastic breakfast or snack any day of the week. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family gathering or just want to enjoy a sweet moment by yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

What I love most about these donuts is how simple they are to whip up. You can enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they fill your home with an aroma that’s simply heavenly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, these donuts fit perfectly into busy schedules.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love helping out in the kitchen, and everyone will enjoy eating them!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
• Versatile Treat: Great for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert—these donuts are perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Get ready to create something delicious!

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup + 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon pumpkin spice

Wet Ingredients

• 1/4 cup pumpkin pie puree
• 2 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk (any type will do)

Topping Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra sweet surprise.
• Make it Nutty: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Change the Spice: Swap pumpkin spice with apple pie spice for a different flavor profile.
• Glaze Them: Drizzle a simple glaze made from almond milk and powdered sugar over the top for an extra treat.

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your donuts bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy.

Step 2: Prepare Your Donut Pan

Lightly grease your donut pan with cooking spray or melted coconut oil. This step is crucial as it prevents your donuts from sticking, allowing them to pop out easily once baked.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all your dry ingredients: flour, light brown sugar, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin spice. Mixing these first helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the batter.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the pumpkin pie puree, melted unsalted butter, and milk. Stir until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your donuts.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your donuts light and fluffy!

Step 6: Fill the Pan

Spoon the batter into each cavity of your prepared donut pan. Fill them about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.

Step 7: Bake!

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The smell will be divine—try not to eat them all right away!

Step 8: Cool & Coat

Once baked, let them cool slightly before removing from the pan. While they’re still warm, brush each donut with melted butter and then roll it in cinnamon sugar for that classic sweet topping.

Enjoy these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts fresh out of the oven or save some for later—they’re sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Making these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts is a delightful experience, and with a few tips, you can make them even better!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: Freshly made pumpkin puree offers a richer flavor than canned options. If you’re using canned, ensure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing the batter just until combined will keep your donuts light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense treats that aren’t as enjoyable.

• Check for doneness: Every oven is different! Use a toothpick inserted into a donut to check if they’re done. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re ready.

• Coat while warm: For the best cinnamon sugar coating, roll your donuts in the cinnamon-sugar mixture while they are still warm. This helps the sugar stick better and creates that delicious crunchy layer.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add more spices like nutmeg or ginger for additional warmth and flavor. Adjusting spices can personalize your donuts to suit your taste!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

These delicious donuts are perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert! Here are some fun ideas on how to serve them up.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and sweetness.
• Chopped nuts: Add some crunch by sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added texture.
• Maple syrup drizzle: A drizzle of maple syrup enhances the fall flavors and adds moisture.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the donuts, providing a burst of freshness.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that balances out the sweetness of the donuts.
• Coffee or tea: Pairing these donuts with a warm cup of coffee or tea creates a cozy experience perfect for any autumn morning.
• Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with sliced apples or bananas offers a hearty and nutritious side that goes well with the sweet treats.

Enjoy making these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts; they’re sure to be a hit whether at breakfast or as an indulgent snack!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are not only delicious but are also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making them a delightful treat for breakfast or snacks throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Enjoy them within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

• Allow the donuts to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
• Transfer the frozen donuts to a zip-top bag or airtight container and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen donuts, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delightful treats, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie puree for Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

Absolutely! You can substitute pumpkin puree directly. Just be sure to adjust the spices if you want more flavor since pumpkin pie puree usually has spices added.

How do I make my Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts extra fluffy?

For fluffier donuts, make sure not to overmix your batter. Gently fold in the ingredients until just combined, and always measure your flour accurately!

Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk for Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

Yes! Almond milk is a great alternative and will work perfectly in this recipe, keeping your donuts moist and delicious.

What toppings can I add to my Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

While cinnamon sugar is classic, consider drizzling with maple glaze or adding a sprinkle of nuts for extra crunch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to create these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts! They truly capture the essence of fall with their warm spices and sweet flavors. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or savoring leftovers later, I’m sure they’ll bring joy to your table. Happy baking, and don’t hesitate to share your donut-making adventures with me!