Homemade Spiced Pumpkin Donuts Recipe: Fall’s Sweetest Treat

Fall’s crisp breeze brings the warm, comforting aroma of homemade pumpkin donuts wafting through kitchens everywhere.

These delectable treats blend rich autumn spices with a tender, cake-like texture that melts in your mouth.

Every bite of this pumpkin donuts recipe promises a burst of seasonal happiness and nostalgic warmth.

The subtle sweetness and deep, earthy pumpkin flavor create a perfect balance that beckons you closer.

Cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of vanilla dance together in this irresistible autumn delicacy.

Soft, pillowy, and generously coated with a sweet glaze, these donuts transform an ordinary morning into a celebration of fall’s finest flavors.

Prepare to be enchanted by this simple yet magical recipe that captures the essence of the season.

Maple-Glazed Pumpkin Donuts That Scream Fall Brunch

• Create delectable donuts without complicated techniques, perfect for home bakers with minimal kitchen skills.
• Capture the warm, cozy flavors of autumn with pumpkin and maple, transforming ordinary breakfast into a festive treat.
• Whip up these donuts in less than an hour, making them ideal for spontaneous weekend mornings or unexpected guest visits.
• Soft, moist donuts with a sweet maple glaze guarantee smiles from kids and adults alike, perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.

What You’ll Need to Make the Best Pumpkin Donuts

Main Ingredients:

• All-Purpose Flour: The essential dry ingredient that provides structure to the donuts.
• Pumpkin: Adds moisture and classic autumn flavor to the donut batter.
• Butter: Creates richness and helps bind the donut ingredients together.
• Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with the donuts' texture.
• Eggs: Act as a binding agent and contribute to the donuts' structure.

• Pumpkin Pie Spice: Delivers warm, traditional fall flavors to the donuts.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the donuts.
• Vanilla: Adds depth and complements the pumpkin and spice notes.

• Maple Syrup: Forms the base of the sweet glaze with a rich, distinctive flavor.
• Confectioners' Sugar: Creates a smooth, glossy finish for the donut topping.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth glaze texture.

• Baking Powder: Helps the donuts rise and become light and fluffy.
• Baking Soda: Assists in creating a tender texture and helping the donuts brown.

Kitchen Gear for Baking Up Pumpkin Donut Perfection

• Donut Pan: Essential for shaping perfect round donuts with a signature hole.
• Electric Mixer: Helps blend wet ingredients smoothly and efficiently.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining dry ingredients.
• Small Saucepan: Used for reducing maple syrup and creating glaze.
• Whisk: Helps mix glaze ingredients and ensure smooth consistency.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Critical for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Cooling Rack: Allows donuts to cool evenly and prevent soggy bottoms.
• Spatula: Useful for scraping batter and transferring donuts.

Foolproof Steps for Baking Pumpkin Donuts at Home

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to 400 degrees F.

Grab your donut pan and give it a quick spray of nonstick magic to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Create the Dry Base

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Pumpkin pie spice
• Salt
• Baking soda

Whisk these dry ingredients until they’re perfectly blended and ready for action.

Step 3: Whip Up the Wet Mixture

Pull out your electric mixer and cream together butter and sugar until they’re light and fluffy.

Drop in eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

Stir in pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until everything looks smooth and inviting.

Slowly fold in your dry ingredient mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Carefully spoon the batter into your donut pan, filling each section evenly.

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes.

You’ll know they’re done when they turn a beautiful golden brown and bounce back when you gently touch them.

Step 5: Craft the Maple Glaze

In a small saucepan, simmer maple syrup over medium heat until it reduces to about half its original volume.

• Butter
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

Once the butter melts, gradually add confectioners’ sugar, stirring until you create a silky smooth glaze.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Let the donuts cool for about 10 minutes.

Dunk each donut top into the luscious maple glaze, allowing excess to drip off.

Let the glaze set for a few minutes.

These donuts are delicious served warm or at room temperature – perfect for a cozy autumn morning or afternoon treat.

Tips for Donuts with Just the Right Amount of Spice

• Use standard measuring cups and spoons to ensure accurate ingredient proportions for perfectly textured donuts.
• Stir flour mixture just until combined to prevent tough, dense donuts with a rubbery texture.
• Test donuts with a light touch; they should spring back when gently pressed, indicating they're fully baked.
• Adjust confectioners' sugar amount to create a smooth, spreadable glaze that coats donuts evenly.
• Keep donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and soft texture.

Pumpkin Donut Variations You’ll Want to Try Next

• Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Vegan Pumpkin Donuts: Substitute eggs with flax eggs, butter with coconut oil, and use plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
• Low-Sugar Maple Glaze: Use sugar-free maple syrup and monk fruit sweetener to reduce overall sugar content for diabetic-friendly option.
• Protein-Packed Variation: Add protein powder to the batter and use Greek yogurt instead of butter to increase protein content for fitness enthusiasts.

Cozy Ways to Serve Pumpkin Donuts at Any Gathering

• Cozy Breakfast Companion: Pair these warm, spiced donuts with a steaming mug of coffee or chai tea for a comforting morning treat.
• Fall Dessert Platter: Arrange donuts on a rustic wooden board with cinnamon sticks, whole pecans, and a small pitcher of extra maple glaze for a stunning presentation.
• Seasonal Gathering Centerpiece: Stack donuts on a tiered cake stand and sprinkle with additional pumpkin pie spice or chopped nuts to create an inviting dessert centerpiece for autumn gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Store glazed donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, making them perfect for quick breakfasts or unexpected guests.

Pumpkin Donut Storage Tips for Lasting Freshness

• Store glazed donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Wrap unglazed donuts individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
• Warm donuts at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their soft texture. Avoid overheating to prevent dryness.
• Reheat for 10-15 seconds on low power. Check every 5 seconds to prevent becoming tough or rubbery.

FAQs

• Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture might be slightly denser. Use a 1:1 ratio, and consider adding an extra tablespoon of liquid to maintain moisture.

• Is there a substitute for pumpkin pie spice?

You can make your own by mixing 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves. This blend works perfectly as a replacement.

• How do I know if the donuts are fully baked?

The donuts are done when they spring back when lightly touched and have a slight golden-brown color around the edges. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Pumpkin Donuts Recipe

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4.6 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Homemade pumpkin donuts blend autumn spices with sweet, pillowy texture for a delightful seasonal treat. Warm cinnamon and nutmeg elevate these classic pastries, inviting you to savor fall’s most comforting flavors.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Glaze Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 400°F and lightly spraying a donut pan with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy release.
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking soda, creating a uniform mixture.
3. Using an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar at medium-high speed until light and fluffy, approximately 1-2 minutes. Incorporate eggs individually, ensuring complete integration after each addition.
4. Blend in pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until just combined, maintaining a smooth consistency. Gradually fold in the dry ingredient mixture at low speed, mixing until just incorporated without overmixing.
5. Carefully distribute the batter evenly into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full to allow room for rising during baking.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, watching for a slight golden-brown color and a springy texture when gently touched.
7. While donuts bake, prepare the glaze by reducing maple syrup in a small saucepan over medium heat until volume decreases to approximately 1/2 cup, about 5 minutes.
8. Whisk butter, vanilla, and salt into the reduced maple syrup until butter completely melts. Gradually incorporate confectioners’ sugar, stirring until the glaze becomes smooth and glossy.
9. Remove donuts from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Carefully transfer to a wire rack and dip the tops into the prepared maple glaze.
10. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the donuts warm or at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.

Notes

• Precise Measurements Matter: Use exact measuring cups and spoons to ensure the perfect balance of ingredients for consistent donut texture.
• Spice Customization: Adjust pumpkin pie spice intensity by adding extra cinnamon or nutmeg for a more pronounced autumn flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make the donuts suitable for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Storage Hack: Keep donuts fresh by storing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for extended shelf life.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 14 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg