Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the crisp air of fall settles in, so does the delightful aroma of fresh-baked treats wafting through my home. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite secret for making irresistibly Easy Oven-Baked Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts—an autumn-inspired recipe that packs a punch of flavor with barely any fuss! Using just three simple ingredients, these donuts not only come together in a snap but also deliver warmth and a yummy, cozy vibe that’s perfect for gatherings or a lazy Sunday morning. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a beginner looking to avoid fast food, this recipe is a fun twist that will have you and your loved ones reaching for seconds. Who’s ready to indulge in a taste of fall? Let’s dive into this quick set of steps! Why are these donuts a fall must-try? Simplicity at Its Best: With just three ingredients, you can whip up these delightful donuts in no time! Rich Pumpkin Flavor: The deep, warm taste of pumpkin puree combined with spices makes each bite feel like a cozy embrace. Versatile Creation: You can easily switch up the frosting or add mix-ins like chocolate chips for a personal twist. Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual brunch with friends, these donuts are sure to impress everyone. Quick Baking Time: Ready in mere minutes, they’re the perfect last-minute treat when guests arrive. Ideal Pairing: Serve alongside your favorite coffee or tea to create an inviting atmosphere reminiscent of fall afternoons. You might also enjoy my Oreo Cheesecake Decadent for a delightful dessert option! Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts Ingredients For the Donuts White Cake Mix – This is the foundation for your donuts; choose a quality box mix for the best flavor. Pumpkin Pie Spice – This classic autumn blend adds a warmth that perfectly complements the pumpkin flavor; you can use cinnamon and nutmeg in a pinch. Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and an authentic pumpkin taste; opt for canned puree for convenience but homemade works too. For the Glaze Cream Cheese Frosting – A sweet and creamy topping that enhances every bite; you can switch it out for vanilla or chocolate frosting for variety. Optional Extra Pumpkin Pie Spice – A dash in the glaze deepens the pumpkin flavor even more, making the donuts irresistible. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Oven-Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cake Mix Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven warms up, grease two donut pans generously with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts release easily once baked. This step is crucial, as it helps achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior, making them easy to handle. Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the white cake mix and pumpkin pie spice until thoroughly blended. This should take about 1-2 minutes. Be sure to break up any lumps in the cake mix, as a smooth mixture will contribute to fluffy donuts. Enjoy the comforting aroma of the pumpkin spice wafting through your kitchen as you work. Step 3: Incorporate the Pumpkin Puree Add the pumpkin puree to the dry ingredients and gently stir them together until fully combined. Take your time mixing to create a smooth, thick batter; it’s the secret for achieving that rich pumpkin flavor throughout your donuts. This should take around 2-3 minutes of steady mixing. Step 4: Prepare for Piping Grab a gallon-sized zip-top bag and fill it with your donut batter. Once filled, carefully cut one corner of the bag to create a piping tool. This will help you transfer the batter neatly into the pans. Alternatively, if you prefer a more rustic approach, use a spoon to fill each donut cavity with the batter for your Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts. Step 5: Fill the Donut Pans Pipe or spoon the batter into the greased donut pans, filling each cavity about halfway. This portion allows the donuts to rise beautifully during baking, preventing any overflow. Aim for a smooth and even surface on each one, as it’ll ensure uniform baking and an appealing appearance. Step 6: Bake the Donuts Place the filled donut pans in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you’ll want to remove them when they spring back lightly to the touch rather than leaving them dry and overcooked. A good visual cue is a golden-brown color, signaling deliciousness is near! Step 7: Cool the Donuts Once baked, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about five minutes. This cooling period allows them to set properly. After that, gently transfer the donuts onto a wire rack, where they can cool fully to room temperature while maintaining their airy texture. Step 8: Prepare the Glaze To make the glaze that will elevate your Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts, place the cream cheese frosting in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave it in 15-second intervals until it melts, making it easier to dip the donuts. Once melted, stir in a dash of extra pumpkin pie spice to enhance that delightful fall flavor. Step 9: Glaze the Donuts Carefully dip each donut into the warm glaze, coating the tops evenly. Allow any excess glaze to drip off before placing the donuts back on the wire rack. The warmth of the donuts helps the glaze stick better, resulting in a beautifully glossy finish that speaks to their homemade charm. How to Store and Freeze Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts Room Temperature: Store completely cooled Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to preserve their softness and flavor. Fridge: If you prefer a longer-lasting option, refrigerate the donuts in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying. Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature before serving. Reheating: To reheat, place donuts in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, freshly baked taste—perfect for cozy fall mornings! Make Ahead Options These Easy Oven-Baked Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weekdays! You can prepare the donut batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and pumpkin puree, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to treat yourself, simply pipe the batter into the donut pans and bake as directed. To maintain their fluffy texture and rich flavor, be sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before glazing to enjoy that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste! Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts Variations Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful donuts to suit your taste buds! Applesauce Swap: Replace pumpkin puree with applesauce for a fruity spin. This adds a light sweetness and keeps the donuts moist. Chocolate Frosting: Instead of cream cheese, use chocolate frosting for an indulgent twist. It’s a heavenly pairing with the pumpkin flavor! Nutty Add-In: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful crunch. This adds texture and makes every bite unique. Spice It Up: Kick the flavor up a notch by adding a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat. It’s a surprising mix that highlights the warm spices! Glazed & Fruity: Top your donuts with a simple vanilla glaze and sprinkle with fresh chopped strawberries or blueberries. This brings a refreshing tartness to the sweet treats. Creamy Surprise: Fill the center of each donut with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla pudding for a surprise inside. Your family will love this delightful twist! Pumpkin Cream Cheese: Blend a little pumpkin puree into your cream cheese frosting for a double dose of pumpkin goodness. This creates a rich, creamy frosting that harmonizes beautifully. Don’t forget to enjoy these tasty treats with a warm cup of coffee or tea. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you might also want to check out my Blueberry Crumble Cheesecake for another autumn-inspired dessert! What to Serve with Easy Oven-Baked Pumpkin Donuts Imagine cozying up with a warm treat that captures the essence of fall, while sipping your favorite beverage and enjoying delightful company. Fresh Apple Cider: The sweet and tart notes of apple cider perfectly complement the warm spices in your donuts, enhancing the cozy flavor experience. Spiced Chai Latte: This aromatic drink brings a delightful blend of warmth and spiciness that pairs beautifully with your Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts, making each bite even more comforting. Maple Pecan Granola: This crunchy side brings a caramel-like sweetness that contrasts nicely with the softness of the donuts, offering a satisfying texture combination. Creamy Yogurt Dip: A light, tangy yogurt dip can be a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the donuts. Adding a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice gives it a seasonal touch. Buttery Popcorn: Lightly salted popcorn adds an unexpected salty crunch that contrasts the fluffy sweetness of your donuts, providing an enjoyable mix of flavors. Dark Chocolate Drizzle: For those special moments, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate over your donuts takes indulgence to the next level, marrying rich flavors with fall delights. Pumpkin Spice Latte: Revel in the autumnal vibes with this classic drink that echoes the flavors found in your donuts, creating a harmonious and holiday-ready experience. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a decadent dessert ensemble, where the warm donut and cold ice cream delightfully melt together in every bite. Expert Tips for Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the donuts; overbaking can lead to dryness. Remove them when they’re golden brown and spring back when touched. Warm for Glaze: For a smoother glaze application, dip the donuts while they are still warm. This helps the glaze adhere nicely, enhancing the flavor of your Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts. Storage Tips: To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay tasty for up to a week! Mixing Techniques: Ensure your dry ingredients are well-blended before adding the pumpkin puree. This prevents lumps in the batter, leading to lighter, fluffier donuts. Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for added texture. Experimenting with frosting types, like vanilla or chocolate, can bring new dimensions to your Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts! Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts Recipe FAQs How can I choose the best pumpkin puree? Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, look for canned options that state “100% pumpkin” with no added sugars or fillers on the label. You can also use homemade puree made from roasted sugar pumpkins for a fresher taste, though it requires extra time and effort! What’s the best way to store leftover cake mix pumpkin donuts? To keep your Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just let them sit out for a few minutes to reach room temperature for the best taste! Can I freeze these donuts for later enjoyment? Certainly! To freeze your donuts, first allow them to cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop them into the freezer for about 1-2 hours until they’re firm. Afterward, transfer the frozen donuts to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying! How do I troubleshoot donuts that turn out dense or heavy? If your donuts are dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter, which can incorporate too much air and lead to a heavy texture. Ensure you mix the pumpkin puree gently with the dry ingredients until just combined. Also, be mindful of your baking time—removing them too late can dry them out! Aim for that golden brown color with a slight spring back. Are there any dietary considerations for my pumpkin donuts? Yes, it’s important to consider allergies! Since this recipe uses cake mix, which often contains gluten, those with gluten intolerance should seek gluten-free cake mix alternatives. There’s also the option to make these donuts vegan by substituting regular cream cheese frosting with a plant-based version or simply skipping the glaze. Always check ingredient labels for specific allergens like dairy or eggs. Can I add extra ingredients for flavor or texture? Very! You can definitely mix in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit to the batter for added flavor and texture. Just make sure not to overfill the donut cavities to allow them to rise correctly—halfway full is usually the sweet spot. Additional spices like ginger or allspice can also bring a deeper flavor profile to your Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts! Delicious Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts: Quick Fall Treats Easy Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts that are perfect for fall gatherings or cozy mornings, combining three simple ingredients for a delightful treat. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 12 donutsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Donuts1 box White Cake Mix Choose a quality box mix for the best flavor.1 tablespoon Pumpkin Pie Spice Can use cinnamon and nutmeg in a pinch.1 cup Pumpkin Puree Opt for canned for convenience, homemade works too.For the Glaze1 cup Cream Cheese Frosting Can switch for vanilla or chocolate frosting for variety.1 teaspoon Optional Extra Pumpkin Pie Spice A dash deepens the pumpkin flavor. Equipment Donut PansMixing bowlsWhiskMicrowaveZip-top Bag Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease two donut pans.Whisk together the white cake mix and pumpkin pie spice in a large mixing bowl.Add the pumpkin puree to the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined.Fill a gallon-sized zip-top bag with the batter and cut one corner to pipe into pans.Pipe or spoon the batter into the greased donut pans, filling each cavity halfway.Bake for 8-10 minutes until donuts spring back lightly when touched.Cool the donuts in the pan for about five minutes before transferring to a wire rack.Microwave the cream cheese frosting until melted and stir in extra pumpkin pie spice.Dip each donut into the warm glaze and allow excess to drip off before placing back on the rack. Nutrition Serving: 1donutCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 10IUCalcium: 2mgIron: 4mg NotesStore donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week. To freeze, lay out donuts and place in freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!