Name: Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts: A Delightful Fall Treat!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Introduction to Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving something warm and comforting. That’s where these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts come in! They’re not just a treat; they’re a hug in donut form. Perfect for busy mornings or a cozy afternoon snack, these donuts are quick to whip up and even quicker to disappear. Whether you’re looking to impress your family or simply indulge in a little fall magic, this recipe is your go-to. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are a game-changer for anyone juggling a busy schedule. They come together in just 15 minutes, making them a perfect solution for hectic mornings. The delightful blend of pumpkin and spices creates a flavor that’s both comforting and festive. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, so you can enjoy them guilt-free. Trust me, once you taste these, they’ll become a fall favorite!

Ingredients for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts. Here’s what you’ll need:

Pumpkin puree: This is the star of the show! It adds moisture and that lovely pumpkin flavor.
Sugar: Regular granulated sugar sweetens the donuts, balancing the spices perfectly.
Brown sugar: This adds a hint of caramel flavor and extra moisture, making the donuts even more delicious.
Vegetable oil: It keeps the donuts tender and moist. You can also use melted coconut oil for a twist!
Eggs: They provide structure and richness, helping the donuts rise beautifully.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making each bite irresistible.
All-purpose flour: This is the base of the donuts, giving them that classic donut texture.
Baking powder: It helps the donuts rise, creating a light and fluffy texture.
Baking soda: This works with the acidic ingredients to give the donuts a nice lift.
Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that brings the essence of fall into every bite.
Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch adds a cozy, aromatic flavor that complements the pumpkin.
Salt: A little salt enhances all the flavors, making them pop!

For those looking to make adjustments, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. The exact quantities for each ingredient are listed at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print out and take to the kitchen!

How to Make Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts rise perfectly. While the oven warms up, grab your donut pan and grease it well. You can use cooking spray or a little vegetable oil. This will help the donuts slide out easily after baking, preventing any sticky situations. Trust me, a well-greased pan is the secret to beautiful donuts!

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or a spatula to mix everything until it’s smooth and creamy. This mixture is the heart of your donuts, so take your time to blend it well. The sugars will dissolve, and the oil will help keep your donuts moist. You’ll love the vibrant color and aroma that fills your kitchen!

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This step is essential for evenly distributing the leavening agents and spices. Make sure there are no lumps in the flour. A well-mixed dry blend ensures that every bite of your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts is packed with flavor. Plus, it makes the next step a breeze!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring the two mixtures together! Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Gently fold them together using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, and we want them light and fluffy. Just mix until you see no dry flour, and you’re good to go!

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full with the batter. This allows room for the donuts to rise without overflowing. If you’re using a piping bag, it makes the process cleaner and easier. Just remember, even filling is key for uniform baking. You want each donut to look as good as it tastes!

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Place the filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible. Just imagine the smiles on your family’s faces when they get a whiff of these delicious Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This makes them easier to remove without breaking. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. You can serve them warm or let them cool down for a bit. Either way, they’re delightful! Consider dusting them with powdered sugar or drizzling a glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.

Tips for Success

Always preheat your oven for even baking.
Use a piping bag for mess-free filling of the donut pan.
Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay!
Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Let the donuts cool slightly before removing them from the pan.

Equipment Needed

Donut pan: Essential for shaping your donuts. If you don’t have one, a muffin tin works in a pinch!
Mixing bowls: Use at least two for wet and dry ingredients.
Whisk or spatula: Perfect for mixing ingredients smoothly.
Piping bag or spoon: For easy filling of the donut pan.
Wire rack: Ideal for cooling your donuts evenly.

Variations of Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Donuts: Fold in a cup of chocolate chips for a sweet twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
Maple Glazed Donuts: Drizzle a maple syrup glaze over the cooled donuts for a delightful fall flavor.
Nutty Pumpkin Donuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Spiced Pumpkin Donuts: Enhance the spice profile by adding ginger or allspice for an extra kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free treat.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Pair with coffee: Enjoy these donuts with a warm cup of coffee or spiced chai for a cozy treat.
Serve with cream cheese frosting: A dollop of cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy contrast.
Presentation: Arrange on a decorative platter and dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful display.
Accompany with fresh fruit: Serve alongside apple slices or pears for a refreshing balance.

FAQs about Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, just roast it until tender, then puree it until smooth. This will give your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts a fresh flavor that’s hard to beat!

How do I store leftover donuts?

Store your leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just thaw and enjoy whenever the craving strikes!

Can I make these donuts ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Just fill the donut pan and bake in the morning for fresh Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts to start your day!

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

If you’re looking for alternatives, melted coconut oil or applesauce work well. Both will keep your donuts moist while adding a unique flavor twist!

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Definitely! Just swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts will still be delicious and fluffy!

Final Thoughts

Making these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts is more than just a cooking task; it’s a delightful experience that fills your home with warmth and joy. The aroma of spices wafting through the kitchen is like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. Each bite is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring during a quiet moment. Whether you’re a busy mom or a professional on the go, these donuts are a sweet escape. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy the magic of fall with every delicious bite!