Introduction to Baked Pumpkin Donuts
There’s something undeniably special about the warm, cozy flavors of baked pumpkin donuts, especially during the fall. These delightful treats are not only a delicious choice for breakfast or a snack but also a fantastic way to embrace the pumpkin season. Their moist and fluffy texture paired with the aromatic spices—like cinnamon and nutmeg—makes every bite feel like a warm hug.
Why are baked pumpkin donuts a delicious choice?
Baked pumpkin donuts are a wholesome alternative to their fried counterparts. They’re made using simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that contribute to a lighter treat without sacrificing flavor. Pumpkin puree adds natural sweetness and moisture, while the spices elevate the taste profile, creating a comforting experience with every bite.
Plus, they are incredibly easy to make! With just a few simple mixing steps, you’ll be rewarding yourself and loved ones with fresh, homemade donuts that can be customized with your favorite toppings. Whether you enjoy them plain, glazed, or adorned with chopped nuts, these donuts are guaranteed to impress.
So, why not indulge in the goodness of baked pumpkin donuts? They’re perfect for gatherings, brunches, or just a delightful afternoon treat. Get ready to savor the flavors of the season!
Ingredients for Baked Pumpkin Donuts
When it comes to creating delicious baked pumpkin donuts, having the right ingredients is essential for achieving that perfect flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful treats:
Essential Ingredients for the Donuts
- All-purpose flour: 1 and ¾ cups (219g) forms the base for your donuts.
- Baking powder & baking soda: Both play critical roles in helping your donuts rise.
- Salt: Just ½ teaspoon to enhance all the flavors.
- Ground cinnamon & pumpkin pie spice: A warm and aromatic combo, using 1 and ½ teaspoons of cinnamon and 1 teaspoon of spice will bring that classic fall flavor.
- Vegetable oil: ½ cup (120ml) keeps your donuts moist.
- Brown sugar: ¾ cup (150g) adds a deep sweetness.
- Eggs, pumpkin puree, and milk: These add moisture and richness, with 2 large eggs, 1 cup (226g) of pumpkin puree, and ⅓ cup (80ml) of milk.
- Vanilla extract: Just 1 teaspoon boosts the flavor profile beautifully.
Ingredients for the Brown Sugar Icing
For that luscious finishing touch, you'll want to gather up:
- Brown sugar: ¾ cup (150g), your star ingredient for the icing.
- Milk: ¼ cup (60ml), whole milk gives it the perfect creaminess.
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon (14g) melts in beautifully.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon to keep those flavor notes consistent.
- Confectioners’ sugar: 1 and ½ cups (170g) for a smooth, sweet glaze.
- A pinch of salt: Adjust to your taste.
- Optional topping: Crushed walnuts or your favorite nuts for a tasty crunch!
With this lineup, you're set to impress at your next gathering or simply savor a cozy day at home!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Creating your own baked pumpkin donuts is not only delightful but also surprisingly simple. Follow this step-by-step guide, and soon you'll have a delicious treat to impress your friends and family!
Preheat the oven and prepare the pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). As it warms up, grab your donut pan and grease it with some nonstick spray to ensure easy release later. You can also dust it lightly with flour for extra protection. If you don’t own a donut pan yet, consider investing in one; it's a game-changer for baking!
Mix the dry ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 and ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 and ½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice. This blend of spices not only adds flavor but also fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma!
Combine the wet ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, combine ½ cup of vegetable oil, ¾ cup of packed brown sugar, 2 large eggs (make sure they're at room temperature), 1 cup of pumpkin puree, ⅓ cup of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is smooth and well blended, creating a rich, flavorful base for your baked pumpkin donuts.
Fold together dry and wet ingredients
Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Using a silicone spatula or a wooden spoon, fold them together until just combined; be careful not to over-mix! You should see no dry pockets of flour, but a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Fill the donut pan with batter
Now it's time to transfer your batter into the donut pan. You can either spoon it directly into the cavities or, for a cleaner method, use a large zipped-top bag. Just cut off a corner and pipe the batter in, filling each cavity about halfway. This will give your donuts room to rise without overflowing.
Bake the donuts
Place the filled pan in your preheated oven and bake for 10-11 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re done when the edges and tops are lightly browned, and a light poke will make them bounce back.
Cool and prepare for icing
Remove the pan from the oven and let the donuts cool for about 2 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. If you have more batter, re-grease the pan and bake the rest, perhaps in a mini donut pan for bite-sized treats.
Make the brown sugar icing
While the donuts cool, it’s time to whip up the icing! In a medium saucepan, combine ¾ cup of brown sugar, ¼ cup of milk, and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Stir until melted and smooth, then let it simmer for a minute before whisking in 1 teaspoon of vanilla and 1 and ½ cups of sifted confectioners’ sugar until it's perfectly creamy.
Dip the baked donuts
Once your donuts have cooled a bit but are still warm, dip the tops into the icing. If your icing has thickened too much, add a splash more milk to get that perfect dipping consistency.
Let the donuts set and cool
After dipping, place your donuts on a cooling rack set over a baking sheet to catch any drips. You can sprinkle them with chopped nuts or any toppings you love. Allow the icing to set for about an hour before stacking or serving.
With these baked pumpkin donuts, you’ll bring the cozy flavors of fall into your home any time of the year!
Variations on Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts
Elevate your baked pumpkin donuts game by turning them into delightful pumpkin spice latte treats! Simply mix in a tablespoon of instant coffee granules or espresso powder into your batter for that rich coffee flavor. After baking, drizzle a coffee-infused glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of coffee for a delightful finish. It’s the perfect match for those brisk mornings!
Chocolate-Covered Pumpkin Donuts
Who can resist chocolate? For a decadent twist, dip your baked pumpkin donuts in melted dark or milk chocolate right after they cool. Allow the chocolate to set and sprinkle with sea salt for an irresistible sweet-salty combination. Need some ideas? Try topping with sprinkles or crushed nuts for added texture!
These variations add a fun twist to your favorite fall treat. Which one will you try first?
Cooking Tips and Notes for Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Ensuring Even Baking
To achieve perfectly baked pumpkin donuts, it's crucial to have an evenly distributed batter. Consider using a pastry bag to fill the donut cavities, ensuring each one is equally filled for consistent baking. If you're using a standard mixing bowl, be sure to mix your ingredients just until combined—overmixing can lead to dense, uneven donuts.
Adjusting Sweetness Levels
If you prefer a less sweet treat, feel free to reduce the brown sugar by a couple of tablespoons. Adding a pinch of extra spices, like nutmeg or ginger, can enhance the flavor and balance the sweetness without overwhelming your taste buds. Always taste the batter before baking—it's a fun way to personalize your baked pumpkin donuts! Remember, the icing can also impact overall sweetness, so adjust that too if needed.
For more baking tips, check out Sally’s Baking Addiction where you'll find insightful articles and techniques!
Serving Suggestions for Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Great Pairings for Breakfast or Snacks
These delicious baked pumpkin donuts are perfect for a cozy morning or as an afternoon treat. Pair them with:
- Turkey bacon or chicken ham for a savory component.
- A warm cup of spiced chai or herbal tea to enhance the autumn flavors.
- Greek yogurt topped with honey for a refreshing contrast.
- Fruit salad for a vibrant, nutritious kick.
Creative Ways to Serve
Want to elevate your baked pumpkin donuts? Try these fun serving ideas:
- Donut Sandwiches: Slice them in half and spread some cream cheese or nut butter for a fun twist.
- Donut Stacks: Layer with whipped cream and toppings, turning them into a delightful dessert.
- Mini Donut Tower: Create a festive display for gatherings by stacking mini versions on a stand.
With these ideas, your baked pumpkin donuts will never feel ordinary! Want more serving inspiration? Check out ideas at Taste of Home for delicious recipes and pairings.
Time Breakdown for Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Preparation time
Getting your ingredients ready takes about 15 minutes. Gather all your tools, mix the dry and wet ingredients, and you'll be ready to get those donuts in the oven!
Baking time
The baking process is quick! Your baked pumpkin donuts will be perfectly fluffy in just 10–11 minutes.
Total time
From start to finish, you’re looking at about 35–40 minutes to have your delicious pumpkin donuts ready to devour. Perfect for a cozy autumn morning!
For more tips on banana flavors, you might find inspiration in this banana bread recipe.
Let me know how your baking adventure goes!
Nutritional Facts for Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Calories per donut
Each baked pumpkin donut is approximately 150 calories. This makes them a delightful guilt-free treat to enjoy anytime, whether you’re starting your day or winding down in the evening.
Protein content
These donuts provide about 2 grams of protein per donut. While that’s not a hefty amount, pairing them with a protein-rich coffee or side can help balance your snack.
Sugar levels
With around 7 grams of sugar each, these donuts are sweet but not overly so. If you’re looking to lower the sweetness, consider adjusting the icing or using less sugar in the recipe.
FAQ about Baked Pumpkin Donuts
How can I keep my donuts fresh?
To keep your baked pumpkin donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their moist texture for 1 to 2 days. If you reside in a more humid area, consider refrigerating them for up to a week.
Can I freeze baked pumpkin donuts?
Absolutely! Freezing your baked pumpkin donuts is a great way to extend their shelf life. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each donut tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up.
What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?
If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, don’t fret! You can substitute it with mashed bananas or applesauce for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the consistency is similar, as it helps maintain the moisture in your donuts. If you're interested in making your own pumpkin puree, check out this easy guide.
Conclusion on Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Baked pumpkin donuts are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With their moist texture and rich flavors, they're sure to impress both family and friends. Serve them warm for a cozy experience, and don’t forget to try customizing with various toppings. Enjoy!
Baked Pumpkin Donuts: The Best Fall Treat to Delight You
Equipment
- donut pan
- mixing bowls
- whisk
- spatula
- saucepan
Ingredients
Donut Batter
- 1 and ¾ cups all-purpose flour spooned & leveled
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 and ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice store-bought or homemade
- ½ cup vegetable oil or canola oil or melted coconut oil
- ¾ cup brown sugar packed light or dark
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- 1 cup pumpkin puree fresh or canned
- ⅓ cup milk at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Brown Sugar Icing
- ¾ cup brown sugar packed light or dark
- ¼ cup milk whole milk is best
- 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 and ½ cups confectioners’ sugar sifted
- salt pinch, to taste
- crushed walnuts optional topping
Instructions
Donut Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease donut pan(s) with nonstick spray. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until combined. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the oil, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, and vanilla extract until combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, then fold everything together gently just until combined and no flour pockets remain.
- Spoon the batter into the donut cavities or transfer the batter into a large zipped-top bag. Cut a corner off the bottom of the bag and pipe the batter into each donut cavity, filling each about halfway.
- Bake for 10–11 minutes or until the edges and tops are lightly browned. To test, poke your finger into the top of the donut. If the donut bounces back, they’re done.
- Cool donuts in the pan for 2 minutes then transfer to a cooling rack. Re-grease the pan and bake the remaining donut batter. For mini donuts, bake in a mini donut pan for 8–9 minutes. Cool donuts for at least 10 minutes before icing them.
Icing Preparation
- Combine the brown sugar, milk, and butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter has melted and the mixture is smooth. Bring to a simmer. Allow to simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract and sifted confectioners’ sugar until smooth and combined.
- Taste, then add a pinch of salt if desired. Let the icing cool for 5 minutes to slightly thicken.
- Dip the tops of the pumpkin donuts into the warm icing. If the icing is getting too thick, whisk in a little more milk, or warm back up to thin it out.
- Place dipped donuts on a cooling rack on a baking sheet to allow excess icing to drip off. Top with chopped nuts or other toppings if desired.
- Cover leftover donuts tightly and store at room temperature for 1–2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
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