Name: Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts for Cozy Autumn Mornings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 41 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Canned pumpkin works great for convenience.); 1/2 cup Milk (Substitute with whole, almond, or oat milk.); 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil (Can be swapped with melted coconut oil.); 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Consider gluten-free flour blends if needed.); 3/4 cup Brown Sugar (Coconut sugar can be used for a healthier choice.); 2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice (Mix cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if you don’t have it.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (No substitutions recommended.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Feel free to increase for extra warmth.); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (Essential without substitutions.); 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg (Adjust or omit according to your taste preference.); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Alternatives include stevia or other preferred sweeteners.); 1/4 cup Butter (melted) (Substitute with vegetable oil for a dairy-free option.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Increase the amount if you love a spicy kick.)

As the leaves turn and the air cools, there’s something magical about embracing the flavors of fall. That’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating! These delightful treats not only capture the essence of autumn but also offer a healthier twist—think flavorful indulgence without the guilt of frying. With simple ingredients like pumpkin puree and warm spices, you can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for cozy mornings or surprise guests. Soft, cakey, and coated in a fragrant cinnamon sugar blend, these donuts will quickly become a family favorite. Ready to savor a sweet slice of fall in every bite? Let’s get baking!

Why Are Pumpkin Donuts So Irresistible?

Comforting Warmth: These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are infused with the cozy flavors of pumpkin and warm spices, making them the perfect autumn indulgence.

Simple Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy homemade goodness without the fuss—ideal for busy mornings or unexpected guests.

Guilt-Free Indulgence: Baked instead of fried, these donuts offer the same soft, cakey texture you love but with fewer calories, so you can satisfy your cravings without compromise.

Versatile Enjoyment: Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or hot apple cider for an unforgettable combination, or try adding chocolate chips for an extra treat!

Family-Favorite Appeal: With their delightful cinnamon sugar coating, these donuts are sure to become a hit among family and friends—perfect for sharing at gatherings or cozy weekends.

Explore more delightful treats like Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts for sweetening your fall mornings!

Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Ingredients

For the Donuts

Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and flavor; canned pumpkin works great for convenience.
Milk – Adds creaminess; substitute with whole, almond, or oat milk as you prefer.
Vegetable Oil – Keeps donuts moist; swap it with melted coconut oil for a twist.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure; consider gluten-free flour blends if needed.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; you can use coconut sugar for a healthier choice.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Brings a warm, fall flavor; mix cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if you don’t have it.
Baking Powder – Ensures a light texture; no substitutions recommended.
Cinnamon – Enhances overall taste; feel free to increase for extra warmth.
Salt – Balances the flavors; essential without substitutions.
Nutmeg – Adds depth; adjust or omit according to your taste preference.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the topping; alternatives include stevia or other preferred sweeteners.
Butter (melted) – Helps the sugar stick; substitute with vegetable oil for a dairy-free option.
Cinnamon – Intensifies the flavor; increase the amount if you love a spicy kick.

These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are sure to tantalize your taste buds this fall!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a donut pan with cooking spray to ensure easy release later. This step is crucial, as it facilitates that perfect light and fluffy texture in your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts. Make sure the oven is fully heated before moving on to the next step, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, blend together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk until smooth and well-integrated. Whisking these ingredients combines their flavors and creates a rich base for your donuts. This mixture should be creamy and homogenous, which will help keep your baked pumpkin donuts moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately is key to ensuring even distribution of the leavening agents and spices, which contribute to the enchanting autumn flavor of your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts. You should see a fine, uniform blend with no lumps.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients into Wet
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This step is essential to maintaining the light and tender texture of your donuts. You should see a luscious, thick batter forming that evokes the comforting essence of fall.

Step 5: Pipe the Batter
Carefully transfer the donut batter into a piping bag and fill each cavity of the prepared donut pan evenly, about two-thirds full. This method ensures that your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts turn out beautifully shaped and uniform. If you don’t have a piping bag, you can use a freezer bag with a corner snipped off for a similar effect.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Place the filled donut pan in your preheated oven and bake for 15–16 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops of the donuts should be slightly firm to the touch and lightly golden. This step is where your kitchen fills with irresistible autumn aromas!

Step 7: Cool in the Pan
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the donuts to cool for about 10 minutes. This prevents them from falling apart when you take them out of the pan. Let them rest until they’re just warm to the touch, making it easier to handle during the next step of preparing the cinnamon sugar coating.

Step 8: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Now, brush or dip each warm donut in melted butter, then roll it in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon until fully coated. This final touch adds a delightful crunch and sweet warmth to each Easy Baked Pumpkin Donut. Ensure every donut is generously coated to fully enjoy that cozy flavor that defines fall!

Storage Tips for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Room Temperature: Store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Fridge: If you live in a warmer climate, place the donuts in the fridge for up to 4 days; be sure to cover them well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, allowing the cinnamon sugar coating to regain its delightful crunch.

What to Serve with Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

As the sweet aroma of baked pumpkin donuts fills your home, it’s the perfect time to consider delightful pairings that elevate your cozy autumn experience.

Steaming Coffee: The rich, bold flavor of a freshly brewed cup complements the sweetness of the donuts beautifully. The warmth will enhance your overall enjoyment.
Hot Apple Cider: This classic fall beverage brings out the pumpkin spice flavors and offers a comforting, nostalgic touch that’s perfect for chilly mornings.
Cinnamon Maple Yogurt: Drizzle some maple syrup over tangy yogurt for a creamy balance that enhances the cinnamon flavor in the donuts, making for an indulgent treat.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a luxurious element, perfect for those who enjoy a creamy contrast to the spiced donuts.
Warm Spiced Tea: A cup of spiced chai or herbal tea can complement the flavors of the donuts, creating a harmonious blend of warmth and spice that’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Fall Fruit Salad: Toss in seasonal fruits like apples and pears with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a refreshing and colorful side dish that adds a pop of freshness.

Embrace the comforts of fall with these pairings, and let every bite of your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts transport you to cozy moments shared with loved ones.

Expert Tips for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Avoid Over-Mixing: Keep the donuts light and fluffy by mixing until just combined; a few lumps are okay.
Proper Cooling: Allow the donuts to cool adequately before coating them in cinnamon sugar to prevent melting.
Piping Technique: Using a piping bag helps maintain uniform shapes; if you don’t have one, use a freezer bag with a corner cut off.
Oven Calibration: Always ensure your oven is fully preheated, as accurate baking temperatures are key for the best texture.
Flavor Boost: Experiment by adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra flavor and texture in your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts.

Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Variations

Feel free to make these delicious donuts your own with these exciting twists!

Chocolate Lover’s: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful surprise in every bite. They pair wonderfully with pumpkin’s warm spices!
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the mix for a lovely crunch, elevating the texture and flavor of your donuts.
Healthier Choice: Swap all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to create a more wholesome version, still delicious but with added fiber.
Spice It Up: If you crave an extra kick, include a dash of cayenne pepper or ginger to the batter for a zesty surprise that complements pumpkin beautifully.
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace milk with your choice of plant-based options, like almond or oat milk, and use vegetable oil instead of butter for a fully dairy-free treat.
Gourmet Coating: Elevate your cinnamon sugar by mixing in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for an aromatic burst that enhances the fall flavors.
Sweet and Savory: Try adding a touch of maple syrup to the batter for a rich sweetness that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin spice.
Autumn Apple Twist: Fold in finely chopped apple pieces for a fruity twist that adds a bit of fall freshness to each bite.

Enjoy these variations alongside your favorite warm beverage, or elevate your gatherings with delightful treats like Cinnamon Roll Pancakes for an unforgettable autumn experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the donut batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; this keeps the flavors vibrant while saving you precious morning minutes. Just remember to seal it tightly in an airtight container to maintain quality. When you’re ready to bake, simply transfer the batter to a piping bag, fill your donut pan, and pop it in the oven. Freshly baked donuts in no time—just as delicious as if you made them from scratch on a busy day! Enjoy the soothing comfort of homemade treats with minimal effort!

Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin is best for making donuts?
Absolutely! The best choice for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts is canned pumpkin puree, as it offers both convenience and great flavor. If you prefer to use fresh pumpkin, make sure to cook and puree it before measuring—just look for a sugar pie pumpkin for the best sweetness and texture.

How should I store my baked pumpkin donuts?
To keep your delicious donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last a bit longer, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Just make sure to cover them really well to prevent them from drying out!

Can I freeze these donuts?
Yes! For longer storage, you can freeze your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts. First, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then transfer the frozen donuts to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they should stay good for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

What if my donut batter is too thick?
If you find your batter is too thick, just add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it reaches a consistency you’re happy with—this should create that luscious, pourable texture your donuts need. Remember, a few lumps are okay; overmixing can lead to dense donuts!

Are these donuts suitable for people with allergies?
Great question! To make your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts more allergy-friendly, consider using gluten-free flour blends instead of all-purpose flour, and replace the vegetable oil with a dairy-free option, like melted coconut oil. For nut allergies, stick to non-nut milk alternatives, and check the labels of your baking ingredients to ensure they’re free of cross-contamination.