Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

If you’re looking for a cozy treat to brighten up your mornings, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are just what you need! They’re moist, fluffy, and bursting with warm autumn flavors. As the leaves change and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like a fresh batch of these delightful donuts to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, making them a slightly healthier indulgence that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

What makes this recipe even more special is how quick and easy it is to whip up. In just 20 minutes, you can have these delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts ready to share—or keep all to yourself (no judgment here!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you’ll be enjoying these donuts in no time!
• Family-Friendly: These donuts are sure to please both kids and adults alike—perfect for breakfast or snack time.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the batter ahead of time and bake them fresh whenever you’re ready for a treat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cinnamon makes every bite feel like a warm hug on a chilly day.
• Baked Not Fried: Enjoy a lighter version of your favorite donuts without sacrificing any flavor!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You probably have most of these in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need to make your own Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts:

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup + 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon pumpkin spice

Wet Ingredients

• 1/4 cup pumpkin pie puree
• 2 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk (any type will do)

Topping

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and add-ins. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra sweet twist.
• Try Different Spices: Swap out pumpkin spice for nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor profile.
• Glaze It Up: Instead of tossing in cinnamon sugar, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk.
• Make Mini Donuts: Use a mini donut pan instead of regular ones for bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing!

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your donuts bake evenly and rise beautifully as soon as they hit the heat.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, light brown sugar, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin spice. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the pumpkin pie puree, melted butter, and milk. Whisk until smooth. This step adds moisture and flavor—it’s what makes our donuts so fluffy!

Step 4: Combine Both Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want those donuts to stay tender!

Step 5: Fill the Pan

Spoon the batter into a greased donut pan. Fill each cavity about halfway full to allow room for rising.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until golden brown. A toothpick inserted should come out clean—this means they’re done!

Step 7: Prepare the Topping

While your donuts cool slightly, melt some unsalted butter in one bowl and combine sugar with cinnamon in another.

Step 8: Coat Your Donuts

Once cooled enough to handle but still warm, dip each donut into melted butter first and then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This gives them that irresistible sweet crust.

And there you have it—your very own Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts! They’re perfect for sharing or savoring on your own while wrapped up in a cozy blanket. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Making these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure your donuts turn out perfectly!

• Measure Accurately: Using precise measurements for your ingredients ensures that your donuts rise beautifully and have the perfect texture. Too much flour can lead to dry donuts, while too little can result in a dense product.

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Spice: If possible, use freshly ground spices for the pumpkin spice mix. This enhances the flavor profile of your donuts and brings out the warm, cozy notes that pair so well with pumpkin.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently mixing the batter until just combined helps keep your donuts tender and fluffy. Overmixing can develop gluten and create a tougher texture.

• Allow to Cool Before Coating: Letting your donuts cool slightly before rolling them in cinnamon sugar allows the coating to stick better. Warm donuts will melt the sugar, making it less effective as a topping.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other flavors like nutmeg or vanilla extract to customize your donuts! A hint of nutmeg can complement the pumpkin beautifully and create a more complex flavor profile.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some fun ideas on how to present and enjoy these treats!

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the coated donuts for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Drizzle of Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of maple syrup enhances sweetness while adding a lovely glossy finish.
• Powdered Sugar Dusting: For an elegant touch, dust with powdered sugar right before serving for an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad made with seasonal fruits complements the warm spices in the donuts and adds a refreshing contrast.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and sliced fruits for a creamy side that balances out the sweetness of the donuts.
• Coffee or Tea: Pairing these donuts with a warm cup of coffee or spiced tea elevates your breakfast experience and creates that cozy atmosphere perfect for fall mornings.
• Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or fruits makes for a hearty side dish that rounds out your meal nicely.

Enjoy crafting these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts as part of your breakfast spread, dessert table, or snack time treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in no time and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store and keep them fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Once cooled, place the donuts in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the donuts to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped donuts in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove from the freezer and let thaw at room temperature.
• Warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until heated through.
• For a crispy exterior, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delicious donuts, you’re in the right place!

How do I make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts vegan?

You can easily make these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts vegan by substituting the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or using a commercial egg replacer. Replace dairy milk with almond milk or any plant-based milk of your choice.

Can I bake Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts without a donut pan?

Yes! If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin instead. Simply fill each muffin cup about halfway and adjust the baking time as needed—check for doneness after 12 minutes.

What is pumpkin spice?

Pumpkin spice is a blend of warm spices typically used in fall recipes. It usually includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice. If you don’t have it on hand, you can create your own mix using these spices.

How long do homemade donuts last?

Homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts can last up to 3 days at room temperature when stored properly. For longer storage, consider freezing them for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts as much as I do! They’re not only quick and easy but also bring that cozy fall flavor into your kitchen. Whether it’s for breakfast or an afternoon treat, these donuts are sure to brighten your day. Happy baking!