Name: Fluffy Baked Pumpkin Spice Cake Donuts for Cozy Mornings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 box Yellow Cake Mix (Any brand will work.); 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Use plain pumpkin puree, not pie filling.); 2 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice (Can substitute with ground cinnamon.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Sift to avoid lumps.); 1 teaspoon Additional Pumpkin Pie Spice (Balances the sweetness of the glaze.)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of warm spices filled the air, instantly transporting me to my favorite autumn memories. It’s that cozy feeling that makes homemade Baked Pumpkin Spice Cake Donuts such a delightful treat. These fluffy, soft donuts are not only quick to whip up, but they also serve as a perfect excuse to gather the family around the table. With a simple batter that boasts the essence of seasonal flavors and a sweet glaze that kids absolutely adore, you’ll find them disappearing in no time. Whether paired with a steaming cup of coffee or enjoyed as a special after-school snack, these delightful creations are bound to please everyone. Are you ready to fill your home with unforgettable autumn scents?

Why You’ll Love These Donuts

Irresistible aroma: The moment you bake these donuts, your kitchen will be filled with the warm, inviting scent of pumpkin spice, making it impossible to resist indulging.

Quick and easy: With just a few simple ingredients like yellow cake mix and pumpkin puree, you can whip up these delightful treats in no time!

Family-approved: Perfect for kids and adults alike, these baked pumpkin spice cake donuts are a sweet addition to any breakfast or snack.

Versatile toppings: Roll them in spiced powdered sugar, or elevate the flavor with a drizzle of maple syrup—your choice adds an exciting twist!

Perfect for sharing: Whether it’s a cozy morning at home or an afternoon gathering, these donuts are sure to impress family and friends. Looking for more delicious treats? Don’t miss our Peanut Butter Cake or Oreo Cheesecake Decadent for more crowd-pleasing recipes!

Baked Pumpkin Spice Cake Donuts Ingredients

For the Donuts

Yellow Cake Mix – This provides the base structure and sweetness for the donut; any brand will work, making this recipe a breeze!
Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and rich flavor; remember to use plain pumpkin puree, not pie filling for the best result.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses the donuts with warm, seasonal spice flavors; if you’re out, ground cinnamon is a great substitute.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Essential for coating the donuts, creating a sweet finish; be sure to sift it to avoid lumps.
Additional Pumpkin Pie Spice – Mixing the sweet glaze with a hint of spice balances out sweetness and celebrates the pumpkin flavor.

These Baked Pumpkin Spice Cake Donuts are bound to be a hit that brings smiles and cozy feelings to your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Pumpkin Spice Cake Donuts

Step 1: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir until the mixture is smooth and thick, ensuring there are no dry pockets. This fragrant batter is the foundation for your Baked Pumpkin Spice Cake Donuts, so take a moment to mix well, which should take about 2–3 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Donut Pan
Grease a donut pan generously with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Carefully spoon the batter into each cavity, filling them about 2/3 full. This amount allows the donuts to rise beautifully without overflowing while baking. You can use a piping bag or a spoon; just make sure the batter is evenly distributed for uniform baking.

Step 3: Bake the Donuts
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the filled donut pan in the center rack. Bake for approximately 10–12 minutes, or until the tops are golden and spring back when lightly pressed. The edges should pull away slightly from the sides of the pan, indicating these delicious Baked Pumpkin Spice Cake Donuts are nearly ready.

Step 4: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, remove the donut pan from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes. Then, gently flip the pan over onto a wire rack to release the donuts, tapping lightly if needed. Allow them to cool completely on the rack—this step is essential to ensure a perfect glaze adheres later.

Step 5: Prepare the Sugar Coating
While the donuts cool, prepare the spiced sugar coating by sifting together powdered sugar and additional pumpkin pie spice in a shallow bowl. This will create a deliciously sweet and subtly spiced finish. Mixing these ingredients will only take a couple of minutes, and will add the perfect touch to your donuts.

Step 6: Coat the Donuts
Once the donuts have completely cooled, roll each one in the spiced sugar coating until fully covered. Make sure to coat the tops and sides evenly to give every bite a delightful sweetness. This final step transforms your Baked Pumpkin Spice Cake Donuts into an irresistible autumn treat that’s sure to delight your family.

Storage Tips for Baked Pumpkin Spice Cake Donuts

Room Temperature: Keep the donuts in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 3 days on the counter. Enjoy them as a sweet breakfast treat or afternoon snack!
Fridge: If you prefer, you can store the donuts in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just note that refrigeration may slightly change their texture, making them a bit firmer.
Freezer: Freeze the baked pumpkin spice cake donuts without glaze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the frozen donuts at room temperature, then warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 3-5 minutes to regain their fluffy texture.

Baked Pumpkin Spice Cake Donuts Variations

Feel free to customize your baked pumpkin spice cake donuts to create your perfect version of this autumn delight!

Nutty Flavor: Substitute almond extract for vanilla for a touch of nuttiness and depth.
Add-Ins: Toss in chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter to create a satisfying crunch that balances the softness.
Cinnamon Sugar Twist: Replace the powdered sugar coating with a mix of granulated sugar and cinnamon for a sweeter, classic donut experience. This variation enhances the comforting flavors of fall.
Different Glazes: Elevate with a maple glaze by adding maple syrup to the powdered sugar, giving it a rich, sweet finish that’s absolutely heavenly.
Vegan Option: Use a plant-based cake mix and replace the pumpkin puree with unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg to make it vegan-friendly.
Gluten-Free: Opt for a gluten-free cake mix to make these donuts suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Fruit Toppings: Serve with a fresh fruit topping—sliced apples or pears pair wonderfully with the pumpkin spice, adding freshness to each bite.
Fruity Glaze: Drizzle a cranberry or orange glaze on top for a fruity punch that complements the pumpkin spice and makes a beautiful presentation.

Not only are these variations crowd-pleasers, but they also offer a chance to experiment and make these baked pumpkin spice cake donuts your own. If you’re looking for more baking inspiration, be sure to check out our delicious Baked Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Parmesan or indulge in our rich Ice Cream Cake for those sweet cravings!

Make Ahead Options

These Fluffy Baked Pumpkin Spice Cake Donuts are the perfect candidate for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade treats even on your busiest days! You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, just be sure to cover it tightly to retain moisture and flavor. Additionally, baked donuts can be frozen for up to 3 months without glaze; simply place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before finishing by rolling them in the spiced sugar coating. This way, you’ll have delightful, warm donuts that are just as delicious as when freshly made, minimizing your prep time while maximizing taste!

What to Serve with Fluffy Baked Pumpkin Spice Cake Donuts

Embrace the cozy warmth of autumn mornings as you enjoy these delightful treats with complementary flavors and textures.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet, spiced donuts. Think crisp apple slices, juicy pears, and tangy cranberries for a burst of flavor.
Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer thick Greek yogurt with granola and a drizzle of honey for a satisfying, creamy bite beside your donuts. This balance of textures enhances the overall breakfast experience.
Savory Bacon Strips: Crispy, savory bacon adds a delicious contrast to the sweetness of the donuts, creating a perfect sweet-and-savory morning spread. Pairing the two brings out the flavors beautifully.
Warm Apple Cider: A steaming mug of spiced apple cider completes the autumn theme, inviting you to take a moment of cozy bliss as you savor each bite of your donuts.
Nutty Granola: Serve a scoop of crunchy granola on the side for a satisfying crunch. The nutty notes complement the pumpkin spice, making this pairing irresistible.
Maple Coffee: A cup of rich, maple-flavored coffee enhances the sweetness of the donuts while complementing their spiced flavor profile perfectly.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, serve a donut with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess balances the warm, fluffy donut, making it a delightful dessert.

Expert Tips for Baked Pumpkin Spice Cake Donuts

Accurate Measuring: Ensure you measure the batter precisely to avoid overflowing in the pan, which can ruin the shape of your donuts.
Check Doneness Early: Start checking for doneness at around 10 minutes; donuts should spring back when lightly touched to prevent overbaking.
Grease Well: Even if using a non-stick pan, a generous layer of greasing helps in the easy release of your baked pumpkin spice cake donuts.
Cool Completely: Allow donuts to cool fully before coating in spiced sugar; warm donuts can melt the glaze, causing it to slide off.
Enjoy Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for extra flavor and texture in your baked pumpkin spice cake donuts!

Baked Pumpkin Spice Cake Donuts Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Baked Pumpkin Spice Cake Donuts, use plain pumpkin puree. Canned varieties are convenient and work beautifully, but you can also make your own by roasting and blending fresh pumpkin. Just avoid using pumpkin pie filling, as it’s sweetened and spiced differently.

How should I store leftover donuts?
Great question! Keep your donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best taste and texture. If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate them for up to 5 days, although this may make them a bit firmer. For optimal freshness, freeze the baked donuts without glaze for up to 3 months.

How do I freeze these donuts properly?
Certainly! To freeze your Baked Pumpkin Spice Cake Donuts, first, allow them to cool completely. Place the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid, about 1-2 hours. After freezing, transfer the donuts to a zip-top bag or airtight container, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored like this for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature and warm in the microwave or oven.

What if my donuts are overbaked or too dry?
Very! If your donuts turn out dry, it’s often a sign they were overbaked or the batter didn’t have enough moisture. Be sure to check for doneness around the 10-minute mark; they should be lightly golden and spring back when touched. Adjust oven times as needed based on your specific oven’s performance. If they do come out dry, try serving them with a delicious warm beverage to balance the texture, or drizzle them with a little glaze to add moisture.

Can my dog have pumpkin donuts?
Definitely! Dogs can enjoy plain pumpkin in small amounts, but my Baked Pumpkin Spice Cake Donuts include sugar and spices that aren’t suitable for them. If you’d like to share the pumpkin goodness, consider making a dog-friendly version using only plain pumpkin puree and pet-safe ingredients. Just be cautious about any potential allergies to any specific ingredients!

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
Absolutely! If you want to make gluten-free Baked Pumpkin Spice Cake Donuts, simply substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Many brands offer fantastic results, so check your local grocery store for options. Additionally, ensure your pumpkin puree and spices are also certified gluten-free for a worry-free treat!