Name: Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts: Indulge in a Healthy Fall Treat
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 46 min
Ingredients: ½ cup pumpkin puree; ¼ cup milk; ¼ cup vegetable oil; 1 cup all purpose flour; ½ cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon nutmeg; ⅓ cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons butter (melted); 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Introduction to Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Fall is the perfect time to indulge in easy baked pumpkin donuts, a delightful treat that captures the essence of the season. These donuts are not just delicious but also a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts. Baking them instead of frying has numerous benefits that you’ll appreciate.

Why Choose Baked Over Fried Donuts?

Choosing baked donuts over fried ones can significantly lighten your dessert routine. Fried donuts are often crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, but they absorb a lot of oil, which increases calorie count and can leave a greasy aftertaste. On the other hand, baked donuts are fluffy and moist, made with wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about enjoying.

Moreover, baking allows you to control the ingredients; you can opt for less sugar or incorporate whole grains to boost the nutrition factor. An added bonus? You’ll save time and cleanup is a breeze!

Curious about what flavors to expect? Pumpkin puree, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a delightful cinnamon sugar coating make these donuts utterly irresistible. So, grab your donut pan and let’s dive into the delicious world of easy baked pumpkin donuts! For more insights on similar treats, check out this guide on baking techniques.

Ingredients for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Making easy baked pumpkin donuts at home is not just simple, it’s also a delightful way to savor the flavors of fall. Let’s dive into what you’ll need for this mouthwatering treat!

½ cup pumpkin puree: Look for pure pumpkin puree at your local grocery store, or you can make your own by roasting pumpkins.
¼ cup milk: Any type of milk will work—dairy or non-dairy based on your preference.
¼ cup vegetable oil: This helps keep the donuts moist and tender.
1 cup all-purpose flour: It’s the foundation of our donuts.
½ cup brown sugar: For that delightful sweetness and rich flavor profile.
Spices: You’ll need 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg to bring in those cozy flavors.
Leaveners: 1 teaspoon baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt help our donuts rise perfectly.

For a tasty finish, prepare a cinnamon sugar coating with:

⅓ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons butter: melted, for that irresistible glaze.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: to sprinkle on top.

With these ingredients ready, you’re just a few steps away from enjoying the best pumpkin donuts ever!

Step-by-step Preparation of Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Making easy baked pumpkin donuts is a wonderful way to add a touch of autumn to your day, even if the leaves are still green. These light and fluffy treats are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack. With a straightforward process, you’ll have delicious donuts in no time! Let’s dive into the steps.

Gather your ingredients

Before you begin, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

½ cup pumpkin puree
¼ cup milk
¼ cup vegetable oil
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon nutmeg

For the cinnamon sugar coating:

⅓ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Having everything in one place makes cooking seamless—no last-minute dashes for forgotten items!

Whisk together wet ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk. Whisk them together until everything is well mixed. The vibrant color of the pumpkin puree always makes me feel like fall is in the air, and I can't help but smile knowing delicious donuts are on the way!

Mix and combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the dry ingredients together. This includes your all-purpose flour, baking powder, and spices: pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps. The spices not only enhance the flavor but also fill your kitchen with a heavenly aroma. Click here to explore more about the benefits of spices.

Combine the mixtures and prepare for baking

Now, gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Using a spatula, gently mix until just combined—don't overmix; you want your donuts to remain fluffy! Transfer the batter to a piping bag (or a ziplock with a corner clipped off) and fill each donut cavity in your greased donut pan evenly.

Bake the donuts to perfection

Preheat the oven to 350ºF and pop those babies in for about 15-16 minutes. The tantalizing smell will start to fill your home, and you might find it hard to resist sneaking a taste! Test with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, you're good to go. Allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Add the cinnamon sugar coating

While the donuts cool, melt your butter in the microwave. Once they have cooled down, brush each donut with melted butter or dip them quickly in it. Next, prepare your cinnamon sugar mix in a bowl and coat each donut on both sides. This final touch transforms your easy baked pumpkin donuts from delicious to irresistibly decadent!

Now, enjoy your homemade treats with a warm drink or serve them at your next gathering. You might even find that a few friends are willing to trade their secret recipes for this one!

Variations on Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Pumpkin donuts are delightful, but why stop at just one flavor? Here are two tasty variations that will take your easy baked pumpkin donuts to the next level!

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Donuts

Add a touch of sweetness with chocolate chips! Simply fold in ½ cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the batter before piping it into your donut pan. The rich chocolatey flavor pairs perfectly with the warm spices of pumpkin, creating a scrumptious treat you'll love.

Maple Glaze Pumpkin Donuts

For a decadent twist, drizzle a homemade maple glaze over your cooled donuts. Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of pure maple syrup and a splash of milk until you achieve a smooth consistency. Pour it over the donuts for an extra layer of sweetness and flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Experimenting with these variations not only keeps things exciting but also lets you cater to different taste buds. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Baking Notes and Tips for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Baking easy baked pumpkin donuts is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your donut game.

Storage: Keep your donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
Piping Tip: Using a piping bag or a ziplock with a cut corner makes filling the pans neat and mess-free.
Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the spices to match your taste; more cinnamon or nutmeg can give a richer flavor.
Glazing Alternatives: For a fun twist, consider a maple glaze instead of cinnamon sugar. Simply whisk powdered sugar with maple syrup and a splash of milk until smooth!

Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends—these donuts are perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in!

Serving Suggestions for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

When it comes to enjoying your easy baked pumpkin donuts, the options are endless! Here are a few serving suggestions:

Breakfast Delight: Pair your donuts with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a spiced tea to kickstart your morning.
With a Twist: Spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting for an added layer of richness. Check out a great recipe for cream cheese frosting here.
Toppings Galore: Consider adding a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts on top for some crunch.
Seasonal Sips: Serve alongside a warm apple cider for a cozy fall-inspired treat.
Kids’ Favorite: Make it a fun activity for kids by letting them decorate with colorful sprinkles or drizzles of chocolate.

Whatever the occasion, your easy baked pumpkin donuts will surely impress!

Time Breakdown for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Preparation Time
Prepping these delightful easy baked pumpkin donuts takes about 10 minutes. This gives you just enough time to gather your ingredients and get everything ready!

Baking Time
You'll want to bake your donuts for 15-16 minutes. This is when the magic happens, turning the batter into fluffy, delicious treats.

Total Time
From start to finish, you can whip up these donuts in under 40 minutes. Perfect for a cozy morning or a quick treat anytime!

Now that you know the timing, check out this detailed tutorial for tips on making your donuts extra special!

Nutritional Facts for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Calories

These easy baked pumpkin donuts pack a delightful punch at just around 150 calories each. Perfect for indulging without the guilt!

Sugar

With about 10 grams of sugar per donut, these treats bring a sweet touch to your day. For a healthier option, consider reducing the sugar or using alternatives like coconut sugar or honey.

Fiber

Including approximately 2 grams of fiber, these donuts not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also contribute to your daily fiber intake. A fantastic way to enjoy a delicious snack while supporting your digestive health!

Remember to pair these donuts with a nutritious beverage like herbal tea or a smoothie to balance out your snack time!

FAQs about Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! Using fresh pumpkin can add a deeper flavor profile to your easy baked pumpkin donuts. Just be sure to roast and puree the pumpkin until it's smooth and measurement-friendly. Aim for about ½ cup of fresh pumpkin to substitute for the canned variety, and adjust the moisture content if needed.

How can I store leftover donuts?

To keep your delicious easy baked pumpkin donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them later, freeze them instead! Just wrap each donut tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer—just thaw them before enjoying.

What if I don’t have a donut pan?

No donut pan? No problem! You can easily make mini muffin bites instead. Simply use a mini muffin tin and fill each cup about two-thirds full with the batter. Keep an eye on the baking time, as these little treats might need just a few minutes less than the larger donuts. Enjoy the flexibility in making your easy baked pumpkin donuts!

Conclusion on Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

These easy baked pumpkin donuts are the perfect treat for any occasion, combining simplicity with delicious flavors. With just a few ingredients and a short bake time, you can indulge in a guilt-free dessert that fills your kitchen with the warm scents of autumn. Try them today!