Name: Deliciously Soft Pumpkin Donuts Your Fall Cravings Will Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 27 min
Total time: 47 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Almond Flour (Can substitute with almond meal); 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Use canned or homemade); 2 large Eggs (Can substitute with 2 flax eggs); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder (Ensure it's gluten-free); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Can enhance with nutmeg or ginger); 1/2 cup Monk Fruit Sweetener (Can use coconut sugar or granulated sugar); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Mix with sweetener for coating); 1/4 cup Sweetener (Use preferred blend)

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As the crisp autumn air settles in, I can’t help but crave the comforting warmth of freshly baked goods. Among my favorites are these Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts, a delightful fusion of seasonal spices and tender pumpkin goodness. What makes them even better is their healthier twist, crafted with almond flour for a grain-free treat that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Not only are they baked for easy preparation, but they also boast a delightful cinnamon sugar coating that adds just the right amount of crunch. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, these donuts will surely satisfy your cravings and bring a cozy touch to your kitchen. Are you ready to indulge in a guilt-free version of your favorite fall treat?

Why Are These Pumpkin Donuts Irresistible?

Delightful Texture: Each bite of these gluten-free pumpkin donuts reveals a soft, cakey interior that is perfectly moist and satisfying.

Healthy Indulgence: Made with almond flour, these donuts are a great grain-free alternative that keeps your fall cravings on track without compromising flavor.

Easy to Bake: With simple instructions, these donuts come together quickly, making them ideal for busy mornings or an impromptu snack.

Versatile Variations: Want to kick it up a notch? Add chocolate chips or nuts, or experiment with different spices for a unique twist on the classic!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve them with coffee or tea, and watch as they disappear—perfect for gatherings or just treating yourself at home. Don’t forget to check out other delightful fall treats on the blog for more cozy recipes!

Pumpkin Donuts Ingredients

• Perfect for your autumn cravings!

For the Batter

Almond Flour – Provides structure and a nutty flavor; you can substitute it with almond meal if needed.
Pumpkin Puree – Contributes moisture and a subtle sweetness; use canned or homemade puree for a homemade touch.
Eggs – Offers binding and richness; substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option (1 flax egg = 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water).
Baking Powder – Helps the donuts rise, creating a light texture; ensure it’s gluten-free for the best results.
Cinnamon – Adds flavor warmth; enhance it with nutmeg or ginger for a spicier taste that complements the pumpkin flavor.
Monk Fruit Sweetener – Provides sweetness without sugar; alternatives include coconut sugar or regular granulated sugar, depending on your preference.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Cinnamon – The perfect spice to sprinkle on top; mix it with sweetener to elevate the flavor of your pumpkin donuts.
Sweetener – Use a preferred sweetener blend to create the delightful and crispy coat; monk fruit sweetener is a fantastic option.

These delightful pumpkin donuts will surely become a favorite fall treat!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (160°C). While it warms up, take a moment to grease your donut pan thoroughly to ensure the donuts come out easily after baking. A non-stick spray or a light coating of coconut oil works beautifully for this purpose.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree and eggs. Use a whisk to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining. This step is essential as it creates a cohesive base for your gluten-free pumpkin donuts.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Next, in the same bowl, add in the almond flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and monk fruit sweetener. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Keep stirring until the batter is uniform, ensuring there are no dry clumps left. Your donut batter should be thick yet spoonable at this point.

Step 4: Fill Donut Pan
Carefully spoon the thick batter into the greased donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full. This prevents overflow while baking and ensures a perfect shape. Use a spatula to smooth the tops for a nicer presentation once baked.

Step 5: Bake the Donuts
Slide the filled donut pan into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 27 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Enjoy the warm aroma of pumpkin and spices filling your kitchen.

Step 6: Cool the Donuts
Once baked, remove the donut pan from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Then, gently run a knife around the edges of each donut, and carefully remove them from the pan. Let them cool completely on a wire rack, retaining their gentle shape.

Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the donuts cool, prepare your cinnamon sugar mixture. In a shallow bowl, combine cinnamon and your preferred sweetener. This fragrant blend will add an irresistible crunch to your gluten-free pumpkin donuts.

Step 8: Coat the Donuts
Before coating, lightly spray each donut with coconut oil to help the cinnamon sugar adhere better. Roll each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated. The warm donuts will absorb the flavors, creating a delightful finishing touch to your pumpkin treats.

Make Ahead Options

These gluten-free pumpkin donuts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately. Simply refrigerate the wet mixture in one bowl and the dry mix in another, combining them right before filling the donut pan. You can also bake the donuts ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain their lovely texture, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving. With these prep tips, you can enjoy freshly baked donuts with minimal effort during your busy mornings!

Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Donuts

Grease the Pan Well: Ensure your donut pan is thoroughly greased to prevent sticking. A non-stick spray or light coconut oil works best for easy removal.
Cool Completely: Allow the donuts to cool fully before removing them from the pan, as this helps them hold their shape perfectly.
Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the donuts are cooked through. If it comes out clean, your pumpkin donuts are ready to enjoy!
Spoon Full: When filling the donut pan, aim for about two-thirds full to prevent overflow and ensure even baking without a messy cleanup.
Customize Your Coating: Experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or cardamom in the cinnamon sugar for a unique flavor twist—your taste buds will thank you!
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sweetness of your cinnamon sugar coating based on personal preference—try adding a bit of extra monk fruit sweetener for a sweeter touch!

What to Serve with Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts

Indulging in warm, cinnamon-sugar-coated pumpkin donuts is just the beginning of a delightful autumn experience. Let’s create a memorable meal around these treats!

Creamy Coffee: Perfectly pairs with the rich flavor of pumpkin and spices, enhancing the warmth of your cozy morning ritual.
Spiced Apple Cider: Offers a fruity, warm contrast to the donuts, creating a festive fall atmosphere that complements their flavor.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: The tartness of Greek yogurt, layered with fresh fruit and granola, adds a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the donuts. It’s a delightful addition for a hearty breakfast.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of pure maple syrup enhances the sweetness while adding a delightful, sticky texture that’s hard to resist.
Nutty Granola: Provides a crunchy contrast that pairs beautifully with the soft texture of the donuts, creating a satisfying bite every time.
Whipped Cream Topping: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream on the side makes for a delightful treat, bringing a touch of indulgence without being overpowering.
Decadent Chocolate Sauce: For those extra sweet tooth cravings, a side of warm chocolate sauce for dipping can elevate your pumpkin donuts to a whole new level of indulgence.

Each pairing not only complements the gluten-free pumpkin donuts but also elevates your dining experience, inviting warmth and coziness into every bite.

Pumpkin Donuts Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make these pumpkin donuts your own with a variety of delightful twists and substitutions!

Coconut Flour: Swap almond flour for coconut flour for a tropical flavor; just remember to adjust the ratio since coconut flour absorbs more moisture.
Flax Eggs: For a vegan version, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs; simply mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water.
Spiced Up: Elevate the flavor profile by adding ginger or cardamom to the batter for that extra burst of warmth.
Nutty Texture: Fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added crunch and richness. These add delightful surprises in every bite!
Fruity Twist: Mix in cranberries or raisins to add a pop of fruity flavor; they pair wonderfully with pumpkin!
Different Sweeteners: Experiment with maple syrup or honey instead of monk fruit sweetener for a natural sweetness. Just reduce the liquid ingredients slightly to accommodate the additional moisture.
Paleo-Friendly: Keep it strictly paleo by using pure maple syrup instead of sweeteners and ensuring all ingredients are compliant.
Gluten-Free Flour Blends: If you don’t have almond flour, try a gluten-free baking blend as a one-to-one substitute; this option keeps the donuts equally delightful!

Whichever variation you choose, these gluten-free pumpkin donuts will surely remain a deliciously healthy favorite!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Donuts

Airtight Container: Store your gluten-free pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and softness.

Refrigeration: If you want to keep them longer, place the donuts in the fridge where they’ll stay fresh for up to 7 days. Just make sure they’re well-wrapped!

Freezing: For extended storage, freeze the pumpkin donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 1 month.

Reheating: To reheat, pop the frozen donuts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a fresh-from-the-oven taste!

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin for your donuts, look for ones that are firm, heavy for their size, and free of any blemishes or soft spots. A pumpkin’s skin should be a deep, vibrant color—if you notice any dark spots all over, it’s best to choose another one.

How should I store the leftover pumpkin donuts?
I recommend storing your gluten-free pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them delightful and soft. If you’re looking to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 7 days, but be sure to wrap them well to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze the pumpkin donuts? What’s the process?
Yes, you can freeze these delicious treats! Start by laying the cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing them until solid, which usually takes about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible, and they will stay fresh for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for that just-baked taste!

What should I do if the donuts didn’t rise well?
If your gluten-free pumpkin donuts didn’t rise as expected, there may have been a few reasons. First, ensure your baking powder is fresh; expired baking powder can hinder rising. Second, avoid over-mixing your batter, as this can lead to dense donuts. Lastly, make sure to fill the donut pan just two-thirds full to allow room for rising.

Are these pumpkin donuts safe for people with nut allergies?
These pumpkin donuts are made with almond flour; hence, they are not safe for those with nut allergies. However, you can substitute almond flour with sunflower seed flour, which will give you a similar consistency without the nuts! Always verify that your other ingredients are also free from cross-contamination with nuts.

Can I use another type of sweetener instead of monk fruit sweetener?
Very! If monk fruit sweetener isn’t your jam, alternatives like coconut sugar, regular granulated sugar, or even maple syrup can work well. Just keep in mind that using liquid sweeteners like maple syrup may alter the consistency of your batter, so you might need to adjust the other wet ingredients slightly!