Name: Irresistibly Soft Baked Pumpkin Donuts You’ll Love to Make
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 41 min
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups All-Purpose Flour (Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder (Acts as a leavener for perfect rise); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Essential when using pumpkin puree); ½ teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavors); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Adjust for stronger or milder flavor); 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice (Substitute with nutmeg or allspice if needed); ½ cup Vegetable Oil (Can substitute with melted butter); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Light or dark varieties can be used); 2 Eggs (Room temperature); 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Use canned or homemade); ¼ cup Milk (Any milk or dairy-free alternative); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Pure is preferred for the best taste); ½ cup Brown Sugar (Dark brown sugar gives a richer flavor); ¼ cup Milk (Heavy cream can be a luxurious alternative); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Vegan butter is a good substitute); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (No alternatives recommended); pinch Salt (Enhances flavors); Chopped Nuts (Optional garnish for texture)

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As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin their dance to the ground, nothing captures the essence of fall quite like the enchanting aroma of baked pumpkin donuts wafting through the kitchen. These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing are a fantastic way to celebrate the season, offering a comforting blend of pumpkin and warm spices that create an instant mood lift. What I love most about this recipe is not just how deliciously soft and cakey these donuts are, but that they provide a lighter, mess-free alternative to their fried counterparts—great for those of us who want to enjoy our treats without the fuss of hot oil. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack, these delightful donuts are as quick to make as they are to devour. How do you feel about indulging in a taste of autumn?

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Why Are Baked Pumpkin Donuts Irresistible?

Simplicity at Its Best: These donuts come together in no time, needing just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort.

Fluffy and Moist: Each bite reveals a soft, cakey texture that makes them incredibly satisfying.

Fall Flavors Galore: Infused with warm spices and pumpkin puree, they perfectly capture the essence of autumn.

Kid-Friendly Treat: Easy to make and delightful to eat, these donuts are sure to please both kids and adults alike, making them a great addition to family brunch or after-school snacks.

Versatile Fun: Feel free to experiment with different glazes or toppings! Try pairing with a warm beverage or serving alongside your favorite comfort dishes like Baked Garlic Parmesan potato wedges for a feast!

Indulging in these baked pumpkin donuts brings the joy of the season straight to your kitchen, and they will have everyone asking for seconds.

Baked Pumpkin Donuts Ingredients

For the Donuts
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavener for perfect rise; do not substitute with baking soda.
• Baking Soda – Ensures a light texture; essential when using pumpkin puree.
• Salt – Enhances flavors; keep the original amount for the best taste.
• Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warm spice; adjust for stronger or milder flavor as desired.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds a classic fall aroma; substitute with nutmeg or allspice if needed.
• Vegetable Oil (or Canola/Coconut) – Contributes moisture and richness; melted butter works too.
• Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture; light or dark varieties can be used.
• Eggs (room temperature) – Binds ingredients together; swap with a flax egg for vegan options.
• Pumpkin Puree – The star of the show; use canned or homemade—but avoid watery puree.
• Milk – Adds moisture; any milk or dairy-free alternative will do just fine.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates flavor; as always, pure is preferred for the best taste.

For the Icing
• Brown Sugar – Sweet component of the icing; dark brown sugar gives a richer flavor.
• Milk – Adjusts icing thickness; heavy cream can be a luxurious alternative.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds creaminess; vegan butter is a good substitute for dairy-free.
• Powdered Sugar – Necessary for the smooth icing texture; no alternatives recommended.
• Pinch of Salt – Enhances flavors; adjust to your taste preference.
• Chopped Nuts – Optional garnish for texture; chocolate chips or sprinkles can also be used.

These baked pumpkin donuts will infuse your kitchen with warm, inviting scents and delight everyone at your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). While it heats, prepare your donut pan by spraying it generously with non-stick spray to ensure easy release later. This step is crucial for preventing your delicious baked pumpkin donuts from sticking to the pan.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice. Mix until all dry ingredients are evenly combined. This blend creates the perfect balance for your donuts, ensuring they rise beautifully.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together ½ cup of vegetable oil, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, 2 eggs (at room temperature), 1 cup of pumpkin puree, ¼ cup of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined, allowing the ingredients to meld together. This step infuses your donuts with rich flavor and moisture.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet into Dry
Carefully fold the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined, being cautious not to overmix as this can lead to dense donuts. The batter should be thick but pourable, showcasing the warm and inviting colors of fall, thanks to the pumpkin puree.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about halfway. This allows enough room for the donuts to rise without overflowing. Use a spatula or piping bag for more precision and less mess. The goal is to create that delightful, classic donut shape.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-11 minutes, or until the tops spring back when gently pressed. The donuts should be a light golden color and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them as they bake to ensure they don’t overbake, which can dry them out.

Step 7: Cool the Donuts
Once baked, remove the donut pan from the oven and allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 2 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important to maintain their soft texture and prevent sogginess.

Step 8: Prepare the Icing
While the donuts cool, make the brown sugar icing. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ½ cup of brown sugar, ¼ cup of milk, and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Stir until smooth and fully melted. Remove from heat, then whisk in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 cup of powdered sugar until glossy.

Step 9: Ice the Donuts
Once the donuts are completely cooled, dip the tops into the warm icing, letting the excess drip off. Ensure an even coating to maximize the sweet brown sugar flavor. Place them back on the wire rack for the icing to set and firm up, which will only take a few minutes.

Step 10: Optional Garnish
If desired, while the icing is still wet, garnish your Baked Pumpkin Donuts with chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. Alternatively, chocolate chips or colorful sprinkles can be used for an extra fun touch. Allow the icing to set for about an hour for the best results.

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Make Ahead Options

These Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the donut batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately, then refrigerating the wet mixture until ready to bake. This not only saves you cooking time but also ensures the flavors meld beautifully. Additionally, the baked donuts can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature; simply warm them briefly in the microwave before serving. For the icing, make it fresh when you’re ready to enjoy them for that just-glazed taste—this way, your donuts remain just as delicious and delightful as when they first came out of the oven!

Expert Tips for Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Avoid Overmixing: Gently stir the wet and dry ingredients just until combined to keep your donuts light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
Grease Your Pan: Ensure your donut pan is well-greased with non-stick spray. This step is crucial to prevent the baked pumpkin donuts from sticking and maintain their beautiful shape.
Monitor Baking Time: Start checking for doneness at 10 minutes. Donuts are ready when they spring back when pressed lightly. Overbaking is a common mistake that can dry them out.
Cool Before Icing: Let the donuts cool completely before dipping them in icing. Icing them too soon can cause it to melt and lose its glossy texture.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon or add other spices like nutmeg or ginger to personalize your baked pumpkin donuts’ flavor profile.

What to Serve with Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing

Embrace the cozy comfort of fall by crafting a delightful spread that perfectly complements your enchanting pumpkin donuts.

Creamy Coffee: The smooth richness of freshly brewed coffee balances the sweetness of the donuts, creating a warm, inviting breakfast experience.
Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices of chai tea enhance the warm flavors of the pumpkin, making it a soothing pairing perfect for chilly mornings.
Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layered with fresh fruit and crunchy granola, this adds a refreshing texture and a healthy boost to your meal.
Cinnamon Sugar Pecan Muffins: These muffins echo the fall flavors, creating a sweet, spiced treat alongside your donuts for a varied breakfast tray.
Fall Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of apples, pears, and grapes provides a light, refreshing contrast to the rich, moist donuts.
Maple Glazed Bacon: Savory with a hint of sweetness, this crispy addition elevates the brunch spread, ensuring a diverse range of flavors.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Bringing together the same comforting pumpkin flavor, this drink turns your breakfast into a cozy café experience at home.

Enjoy crafting your ideal fall-inspired meal, where every bite feels like a warm hug, enhancing the delightful essence of these baked pumpkin donuts!

Baked Pumpkin Donuts Variations You’ll Love

Feel free to spruce up your baked pumpkin donuts with these delightful twists! Each variation offers a fun way to play with flavors, textures, and dietary preferences.

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to accommodate those with dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste.
Vegan Delight: Replace eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). Use plant-based milk and vegan butter for a fully vegan treat.
Maple Glaze: Swap the brown sugar icing for a simple maple glaze using powdered sugar and pure maple syrup. This adds a lovely new flavor dimension!
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts into the batter or as a topping for extra crunch and protein. Pecans or walnuts work wonderfully alongside pumpkin.
Indulgent Chocolate: Add chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise. You could also drizzle some melted chocolate over the glazed donuts for an extra treat.
Spicy Heat: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne or ground ginger into the batter for a subtle kick that beautifully balances the sweetness of the pumpkin.
Syrupy Swirl: Drizzle warm maple syrup over the iced donuts right before serving for an extra layer of sweetness and flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.

You might also want to enjoy these delightful baked pumpkin donuts alongside a comforting cup of tea or coffee, or perhaps explore other cozy dishes, like these Baked Oatmeal Bars for a wholesome snack!

How to Store and Freeze Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Room Temperature: Store baked pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This retains their soft, moist texture for enjoyable snacking.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, keep the donuts in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just be sure to wrap them well to avoid drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked pumpkin donuts for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
Reheating: To enjoy your donuts warm, simply thaw and reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or for a few minutes in a 350°F (177°C) oven until warmed through.

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Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe pumpkin for the puree?
Absolutely! When selecting a pumpkin for puree, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, firm skin free from blemishes or dark spots. Ideally, go for sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins, which have a sweeter flavor and creamier texture than larger jack-o’-lantern types.

How should I store baked pumpkin donuts?
I often recommend storing baked pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their fluffy texture. For a longer shelf life, refrigerate them for up to 5 days, making sure they are wrapped to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze baked pumpkin donuts?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the baked pumpkin donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature, or reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

What should I do if my donuts are too dense?
Very! If your donuts turn out too dense, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter. Remember to gently combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Additionally, check your baking powder and soda for freshness, as expired leavening agents can affect fluffiness.

Are these baked pumpkin donuts safe for kids with allergies?
Of course! To make these baked pumpkin donuts suitable for kids with dietary restrictions, you can substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) for a vegan option. Make sure to scout for allergens in your other ingredients, especially the icing, and consider using dairy-free substitutes as needed.