Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I pulled a tray of golden brown donuts from the oven, the warm aroma of pumpkin and cinnamon instantly transported me to an autumn afternoon spent at a cozy orchard. These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts not only capture the essence of fall but make for a healthier alternative to the typical fried treats we often crave. With their fluffy texture and a delightful cinnamon sugar coating, they’re a perfect indulgence for any time of day. Plus, this simple recipe is welcoming for bakers of all levels—those new to the kitchen or seasoned pros looking for a quick crowd-pleaser. Ready to savor the cozy flavors of fall with minimal fuss? Let’s dive into this deliciously easy pumpkin donut adventure! Why Are Baked Pumpkin Donuts So Irresistible? Irresistible Flavor: These donuts offer a delightful fusion of pumpkin and warm spices, creating a seasonal treat that captures the spirit of autumn in every bite. Easy to Make: The straightforward process ensures you can whip up a batch without any hassle, making them a perfect choice for bakers of all levels. Healthier Alternative: By being baked rather than fried, you enjoy a lighter version of classic donuts—great for guilt-free indulgence! Versatile Variations: Customize your donuts easily with various spices, or even chocolate chips, allowing for unique flavors that cater to everyone’s taste. Perfect for Sharing: These baked pumpkin donuts are a hit at gatherings, ideal for pairing with coffee or tea, and perfect for cozy mornings. Consider serving them alongside Baked Smashed Potatoes for a delightful autumn brunch! Baked Pumpkin Donuts Ingredients For the Donuts • Pumpkin Puree – adds moisture and rich flavor; feel free to use canned or homemade. • Milk – provides liquid and tenderness; any milk variety works, including dairy or non-dairy. • Vegetable Oil – keeps the donuts moist and light; can be swapped for melted coconut oil for unique taste. • All-Purpose Flour – the main structure for the donuts, ensuring a tender crumb; try gluten-free flour for an alternative. • Brown Sugar – sweetens and deepens flavor; white sugar is a decent substitute, but it may change the taste. • Pumpkin Pie Spice – infuses traditional warming spices; replace it with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if needed. • Baking Powder – ensures the donuts rise; always check for freshness. • Cinnamon – enhances the flavor with warm spice notes. • Salt – balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor. • Nutmeg – deepens the taste; it can be omitted if needed. For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating • Granulated Sugar – used to coat the donuts, providing that sweet and textured finish. • Unsalted Butter – helps the cinnamon sugar adhere; replace it with coconut oil or a vegan alternative for a different option. Whether you’re indulging alone or sharing with loved ones, these Baked Pumpkin Donuts will surely warm your heart and satisfy your cravings! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place a donut pan on your counter. To prevent the donuts from sticking, generously spray each cavity with non-stick cooking spray, ensuring it’s evenly coated to promote easy release once baked. Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of pumpkin puree, ¾ cup of brown sugar, ⅓ cup of vegetable oil, and ⅓ cup of milk. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth and cohesive mixture. This step should take about 2–3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture appears glossy and completely blended. Step 3: Prepare Dry Ingredients In a separate large bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly for about 1 minute, ensuring that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour. Step 4: Combine Ingredients Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; it should take about 1-2 minutes to achieve a thick, lumpy batter. A few small flour pockets are okay. This will ensure your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts remain fluffy and tender. Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan Transfer the donut batter into a piping bag or a zip-top bag with one corner snipped off. Carefully fill each donut cavity about ⅔ full, which will allow room for rising as they bake. Try to maintain even distribution for uniform baking, and this should take around 5 minutes. Step 6: Bake the Donuts Place the filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15–16 minutes. The donuts are done when they spring back slightly when touched, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, set your timer to get those lovely golden donuts just right. Step 7: Cool in the Pan Once baked, remove the donut pan from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This brief cooling period allows the donuts to firm up just enough for easier handling. You’ll notice they’ll start pulling away from the sides of the pan as they cool. Step 8: Transfer to Cooling Rack Gently invert the donut pan to release the donuts onto a cooling rack. Allow them to cool for an additional 10 minutes, letting air circulate around them. This step ensures they set perfectly while avoiding sogginess from retained moisture. Step 9: Cinnamon Sugar Coating For the cinnamon sugar coating, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter in a small bowl. In another shallow bowl, combine ½ cup of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of cinnamon. Brush each donut with melted butter or dip the tops lightly before rolling them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweet finish. How to Store and Freeze Baked Pumpkin Donuts Airtight Container: Store your baked pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness and prevent them from drying out. Fridge Storage: For longer shelf life, keep the donuts in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure they’re in a sealed container to stay moist! Freezer Option: Freeze your baked pumpkin donuts for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid before transferring to a freezer bag for easy access. Reheating Tips: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight or microwave for a few seconds to warm them up. A quick reheat will restore their delightful texture! What to Serve with Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts As the aroma of soft, cinnamon-dusted donuts wafts from the kitchen, consider these delightful pairings to create a memorable autumn feast. Creamy Hot Chocolate: A rich, velvety drink that’s perfect for dunking, complementing the spices of the pumpkin donuts beautifully. Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, fragrant beverage harmonizes with the flavors of fall, making it a cozy choice for sipping alongside your treats. Maple Whipped Cream: A dollop of this sweet-tasting cloud adds an indulgent touch, echoing the warmth of cinnamon and creating a delightful contrast. Roasted Fall Squash Salad: Tossed with arugula, a squeeze of lemon, and dried cranberries, this refreshing side adds a pleasing crunch that brightens your pumpkin platter. Candied Pecans: These sweet, crunchy bites offer a lovely textural counterpoint to the soft donuts; sprinkle them on salads or enjoy them as a snack. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The creamy, cool treat contrasts delightfully with the warm donuts, making for a dreamy dessert moment that everyone will adore. Chai Tea: enjoy this spiced beverage beside your baked pumpkin donuts for an aromatic experience that enhances the cozy vibes of autumn. Fresh Fruit Platter: A vibrant array of juicy apples, pears, and berries balances the sweetness of the donuts, providing a light, refreshing complement to your meal. Expert Tips for Baked Pumpkin Donuts Avoid Over-Mixing: Ensure your donuts are light and fluffy by mixing the batter gently. Over-mixing can lead to dense donuts. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, check that your baking powder and spices are fresh. Stale ingredients can affect the rise and flavor. Piping Precision: To fill the donut pan neatly, use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a cut corner. This avoids messy spills and ensures even-shaped donuts. Cool Before Coating: Let your donuts cool slightly before applying the cinnamon sugar coating. This helps the sugar adhere better for a delicious finish. Flavor Customization: Get creative with your baked pumpkin donuts! Experiment with spices like ginger or add mix-ins like chocolate chips for extra flavor. Storage Tips: Keep your donuts fresh in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or freeze them for a lasting seasonal treat. Enjoy these baked pumpkin donuts any time! Variations on Baked Pumpkin Donuts Feel free to get creative with these baked pumpkin donuts, as customizing them allows you to explore a delightful range of flavors and textures. Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a light and airy version that everyone can enjoy. Vegan: Use flax eggs in place of regular eggs and swap the milk for almond or oat milk, ensuring a delicious donut for any dietary need. Chocolate Delight: Fold in chocolate chips for a rich, decadent twist your sweet tooth will adore. You might even consider a drizzle of chocolate glaze for extra indulgence. Spicy Fire: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness perfectly. Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped walnuts or pecans to bring in a delicious crunch and a hint of nuttiness in every bite. It’ll be an enjoyable texture twist to savor! Apple Cinnamon: Mix in shredded apples along with the pumpkin for a fruitier take. The combination of pumpkin and apple spice will evoke cozy autumn memories. Maple Sugar Topping: Instead of traditional cinnamon sugar, roll your donuts in a mixture of maple sugar for a uniquely sweet twist that elevates the flavor profile beautifully. Drizzle Magic: Create a delightful cream cheese glaze by mixing softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a touch of vanilla extract; it transforms these donuts into a special occasion treat. Each variation offers not only a different taste but an exciting way to enjoy the season. For even more fun in the kitchen, try pairing your donuts with some delicious Baked Potatoes New for a cozy fall meal or enjoy them alongside Baked Smashed Potatoes for a delightful brunch spread! Make Ahead Options These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavors any day of the week! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just fill your donut pan and pop them in the oven for a quick finish. Additionally, you can make the cinnamon sugar coating ahead of time and keep it stored in a sealed bag for up to 3 days. Avoid over-mixing the batter to maintain its fluffy texture, ensuring your donuts will be just as delicious after prepping ahead. Enjoy the cozy flavors of fall with minimal effort! Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe FAQs What kind of pumpkin puree should I use? You can use either canned pumpkin puree or homemade. Canned pumpkin is convenient and has a consistent flavor. If you prefer homemade, simply roast a small pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and blend until smooth. This fresh option adds a lovely depth of flavor, but either choice will yield delicious results! How should I store leftover baked pumpkin donuts? To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend their life, they can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Just make sure they’re in a sealed container to maintain their lovely moisture! Can I freeze these baked pumpkin donuts? Absolutely! To freeze, first allow the donuts to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds! What if my donuts come out dense? If your baked pumpkin donuts are dense, it could be due to over-mixing the batter. Make sure to mix until just combined and avoid incorporating too much air. Additionally, check that your baking powder is fresh; stale leavening agents can lead to less rise. If you notice your donuts still lacking fluffiness, consider adding an extra teaspoon of baking powder next time! Are these donuts suitable for people with nut allergies? Yes! This easy baked pumpkin donuts recipe does not include any nuts, making it safe for individuals with nut allergies. However, always double-check your ingredients, especially if using milk alternatives or additional toppings. Feel free to customize them with mix-ins that fit your dietary needs! Can I use alternative sweeteners in this recipe? Certainly! If you’re looking to reduce sugar, you can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or use a sugar-free alternative. Just keep in mind that some sweeteners can alter the color and texture slightly, so it’s best to experiment and see what works for you and your taste preferences! Indulge in Baked Pumpkin Donuts, Light and Flavorful Treats These Baked Pumpkin Donuts are a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional donuts, capturing the essence of fall in every bite. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 16 minutes minsCooling Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 56 minutes mins Servings: 12 donutsCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Donuts1 cup pumpkin puree canned or homemade¾ cup brown sugar⅓ cup vegetable oil can substitute with melted coconut oil1½ cups all-purpose flour gluten-free option available2 teaspoons baking powder check for freshness1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice can substitute with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger1 teaspoon cinnamon½ teaspoon nutmeg can be omitted½ teaspoon salt⅓ cup milk any variety worksFor the Cinnamon Sugar Coating½ cup granulated sugar¼ cup unsalted butter can substitute with coconut oil2 tablespoons cinnamon Equipment donut panMixing bowlsWhiskPiping BagCooling rack Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Baked Pumpkin DonutsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray the donut pan with non-stick cooking spray.In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk until smooth.In a separate large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and fold gently until just combined. Do not over-mix.Transfer the batter to a piping bag and fill each donut cavity about ⅔ full.Bake in the preheated oven for 15-16 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.Let the donuts cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.For the coating, melt the butter and mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl.Brush the donuts with melted butter or dip the tops, then roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Nutrition Serving: 1donutCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 0.5mg NotesThese donuts can be customized with different spices and mix-ins like chocolate chips. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!