Pumpkin donuts are a delightful treat that captures the warm flavors of fall. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply enjoying a cozy weekend morning, these donuts offer a delicious way to savor seasonal spices. They’re quick to make and a perfect family-friendly dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds. I remember the joy of whipping up a batch with my kids, watching them eagerly anticipate that first bite.
Why Make This Recipe
There are so many reasons to whip up these pumpkin donuts. They transform a simple fall favorite into a treat that everyone will love. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they’re gluten-free, making them a great option for friends and family with dietary needs.
"These donuts are so moist and flavorful; they disappeared in minutes at our family gathering, definitely a keeper," says a happy home baker.
These donuts are ideal for breakfasts, snacks, or any casual gathering. Their cozy flavors bring smiles all around, making them a must-have for your fall baking list.
How to Make Pumpkin Donuts
Creating pumpkin donuts at home is an enjoyable process. First, you’ll blend the wet ingredients—coconut oil, eggs, sugar, and pumpkin until the mixture is smooth and inviting. Next, you’ll stir in the dry ingredients, resulting in a thick batter that’s still easy to work with.
Once everything is well combined, the exciting part begins: filling the donut pans with your batter. Just remember to fill them about three-quarters full for that perfect donut shape. As they bake to golden perfection, your kitchen will fill with the warm scents of cinnamon and nutmeg. After a quick cooling period, the fun continues with tossing them in cinnamon sugar for an irresistible finishing touch.
Ingredients
Gather these items for your pumpkin donuts:
1.5 cups canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
4 large eggs (at room temperature)
¼ cup melted coconut oil
1.5 cups granulated sugar
1.5 teaspoons baking powder
1.5 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon salt
1 + ¾ cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon cornstarch
1 cup granulated sugar (for cinnamon sugar coating)
¼ cup ground cinnamon (for cinnamon sugar coating)
Melted butter (optional, for coating)
The coconut oil can be substituted with vegetable oil if desired for a different flavor profile.
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two donut pans or mini muffin pans.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, eggs, sugar, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking powder. Mix until smooth.
Add the gluten-free flour and cornstarch and mix well until the batter is slightly thick but smooth.
Fill the donut pans about ¾ of the way full with the batter, using a spoon or piping bag.
Bake for 15-17 minutes or until donuts are golden and firm on top. Check with a toothpick to ensure doneness.
Cool for 2-3 minutes before removing from the pan. Prepare the cinnamon sugar by mixing the sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
Brush donuts with melted butter (optional) and coat them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
How to Serve Pumpkin Donuts
These delicious pumpkin donuts are delightful on their own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate the experience. For a cozy breakfast, consider serving them warm with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa. You could even create a mini dessert platter with some whipped cream or cream cheese frosting for dipping.
If you’re hosting friends or family, a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top can add an extra touch of charm. Kids will love the idea of decorating their own donuts with sprinkles or a drizzle of chocolate.
How to Store
To keep your pumpkin donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to two months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature, then reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them warm.
Make sure to keep them plain before freezing; for optimum taste, coat them in cinnamon sugar right before serving.
Tips to Make
To ensure your pumpkin donuts turn out perfectly, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Always measure your flour correctly; spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off for the best results. Use room temperature eggs to help create a smoother batter. Don’t overmix the batter; mix until everything is just combined to keep the donuts light and airy.
If you’re not using a piping bag, you can use a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off—this makes filling the pans much easier and less messy.
Variations
These pumpkin donuts are already a treat, but you can get creative too! Try adding chocolate chips for a decadent twist or toasted nuts for added texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even glaze them with a maple syrup glaze instead of a cinnamon sugar coating.
For a different flavor profile, consider incorporating some apple pie spice or a pinch of ginger for a bit of heat. These ideas are perfect for the changing seasons or whenever you want to mix things up a bit.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree if you have it on hand, but make sure it is well-cooked and blended until smooth.
How can I make these donuts vegan?
You can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, and use a suitable plant-based oil for the coconut oil.
Are these donuts gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is designed to be gluten-free, using gluten-free all-purpose flour.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover donuts?
Reheat in a microwave for a few seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes for a warm treat.
For More Recipe Inspiration
If you’re in the mood for more delightful baking adventures, check out our protein muffins or try your hand at a bento cake recipe. Baking at home can be truly rewarding, especially with these simple yet delicious treats.
Be sure to visit our social pages for more cozy recipes and baking inspiration:
https://www.pinterest.com/quickcakes/
Pumpkin Donuts
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two donut pans or mini muffin pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, eggs, sugar, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking powder. Mix until smooth.
- Add the gluten-free flour and cornstarch and mix well until the batter is slightly thick but smooth.
- Fill the donut pans about ¾ of the way full with the batter, using a spoon or piping bag.
- Bake for 15-17 minutes or until donuts are golden and firm on top. Check with a toothpick to ensure doneness.
- Cool for 2-3 minutes before removing from the pan.
- Prepare the cinnamon sugar by mixing the sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Brush donuts with melted butter (optional) and coat them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.