Pumpkin Spice Donuts
As the chill of autumn settles in, there’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked Pumpkin Spice Donuts wafting through your kitchen. These delightful treats are a perfect blend of soft, moist donut goodness with the familiar spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger warming your senses. Imagine biting into a fluffy donut, its pumpkin flavor mingling beautifully with a sweet cinnamon sugar coating, creating a cozy experience as you savor each bite.
Autumn is the season of comfort, and what better way to embrace it than by making these scrumptious Pumpkin Spice Donuts? Whether you’re treating yourself on a quiet weekend morning or serving them at a gathering, these donuts are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. So gather your ingredients and let’s bake this weekend!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Perfect for cozy weekends or brunch with family
• Wholesome flavor that feels like home
• Can be enjoyed fresh or saved for later
• A delightful treat that captures the essence of fall
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 1/4 cups flour (162 grams) – The backbone of your donuts, providing structure.
- 1 tbsp baking powder – This will help your donuts rise beautifully.
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice – A warming blend of flavors that adds depth.
- 1/4 tsp salt – A pinch to enhance the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree – Adds moisture and natural sweetness, ensuring a tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar – For a rich sweetness that complements the pumpkin.
- 1/3 cup milk – Helps to bind and moisture the batter.
- 1/3 cup butter (softened) – Adds richness and flavor; make sure it’s soft for mixing.
- 1/4 cup butter (melted for dipping!) – A delicious way to coat your donuts.
- 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (3 tbsp sugar + 2 tsp cinnamon) – Adds a cozy sweetness to the finished donuts.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350 F (175 C).
- In a small bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Mix until combined.
- In a large bowl, mix the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, brown sugar, milk, and 1/3 cup softened butter until smooth.
- Gently add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Don’t over-mix. A few lumps are fine; we just want to avoid huge pockets of flour in the batter.
- Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a ziploc bag with the corner cut. Pipe the batter into a greased mini donut pan (or a muffin pan), filling each until it’s about 3/4 full.
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the donuts spring back when you touch the tops or a toothpick comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the donuts from the pan and transfer them onto a cooling rack.
- In a shallow bowl, pour the 1/4 cup melted butter. In another shallow bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar.
- Working one at a time, dip each donut in butter until fully coated, then transfer to the cinnamon sugar bowl and roll until completely covered.
- Enjoy your warm, comforting Pumpkin Spice Donuts!
Pro Tips for Success
• Measure your flour correctly—use the spoon and level method for the best texture.
• Let your baked goods cool before dipping in butter to avoid a soggy coating.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for a week.
• Want a little crunch? Bake a minute longer for a firmer texture.
Variations and Creative Twists
- Chocolate Chips: Stir in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.
- Nutty Goodness: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for texture and flavor.
- Frosting: Top with a simple maple glaze instead of cinnamon sugar for an added sweetness.
How to Store or Freeze
To keep your Pumpkin Spice Donuts fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days. If you would like to freeze them, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag for up to a month. Simply thaw and warm them up before dipping in butter and cinnamon sugar for optimal enjoyment!
Serving Ideas
Enjoy these Pumpkin Spice Donuts fresh out of the oven with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. They can be the star of your weekend brunch or a cozy treat on a Friday evening as you snuggle up with a good book. Pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet surprise, or serve them at gatherings to delight your guests.
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FAQ
Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin puree?
It’s not recommended, as pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices. Stick with pure pumpkin puree for best results.
What if I don’t have a mini donut pan?
You can use a muffin pan instead; just watch the baking time closely as muffins may take a few more minutes to bake.
Can I add more spices for a stronger flavor?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice or add fresh nutmeg or ginger for a punchier taste.
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Now, it’s time to indulge in these scrumptious Pumpkin Spice Donuts. Pin this recipe for later and enjoy the warmth of fall in every bite!