Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Moist and fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are a delightful treat that can elevate any breakfast table or festive occasion. These baked delights are quick to prepare, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish. With their warm pumpkin spice flavor and sugary cinnamon topping, they are perfect for cozy autumn mornings or as a sweet snack anytime. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or share with friends during a seasonal gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These donuts come together in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings.
- Baked, Not Fried: Enjoy a healthier version of the classic donut without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cinnamon makes these donuts suitable for both breakfast and dessert.
- Ideal for Fall: Embrace the fall season with this comforting recipe that highlights pumpkin spice.
- Perfectly Portion-Controlled: This recipe yields 6 delicious donuts, making it easy to enjoy without overindulging.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts, having the right tools on hand is essential for achieving the best results. Gather your equipment before you begin to streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Donut pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Donut pan: This specialized pan ensures your donuts maintain their shape while baking.
- Mixing bowls: Using multiple sizes allows for efficient mixing and preparation of ingredients.
- Whisk: A whisk helps combine dry and wet ingredients smoothly, creating a fluffy batter.
Ingredients
Moist and fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts are baked, not fried, and ready in just 20 minutes!
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup + 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon pumpkin spice
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup pumpkin pie puree
- 2 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk (I used whole, but any type will do)
Topping Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon
Additional Dry Ingredients (for a second batch)
- 1 cup + 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon pumpkin spice
Additional Wet Ingredients (for a second batch)
- 2 1/2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 cup almond milk
How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your donut pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl:
1. Combine the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin spice.
2. Whisk together until well mixed.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the pumpkin pie puree, melted butter, and milk until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients:
– Gently fold using a rubber spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay.
Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
Spoon or pipe the batter into each donut mold:
– Fill each cavity about halfway full to allow space for rising.
Step 6: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven:
– Bake for about 12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping
While donuts bake:
– In a bowl, mix sugar with cinnamon until evenly combined.
Step 8: Coat in Topping
Once baked:
– Remove donuts from the oven and let cool slightly before brushing with melted butter.
– Roll each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
Enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts fresh or store them in an airtight container for later!
How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
These delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or get creative with different toppings and pairings.
With a Cup of Coffee
- A warm donut pairs perfectly with your favorite coffee. The rich flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon enhance the coffee experience.
Drizzled with Maple Syrup
- For a sweet twist, drizzle pure maple syrup over your donuts. This adds a delicious layer of sweetness and complements the spices.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Lighten up your serving by adding a dollop of whipped cream on top. It creates a lovely contrast in texture and flavor.
Served with Fresh Fruit
- Pair these donuts with seasonal fruit like apples or pears. The freshness balances the sweetness of the donuts beautifully.
As Part of a Brunch Spread
- Include Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts in a brunch lineup alongside other treats. They make for an inviting centerpiece!
With Hot Chocolate
- For a cozy treat, serve these donuts with a cup of hot chocolate. The chocolate pairs well with the spiced pumpkin flavors.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
To achieve the best Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts, follow these simple tips that ensure moistness and flavor.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and spices are fresh for optimal rise and flavor.
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Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together to keep the donuts fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts.
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Check Donut Readiness: Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, your donuts are done!
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Cool Before Coating: Allow your donuts to cool slightly before rolling them in cinnamon sugar to prevent clumping.
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor variations.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their deliciousness. Here are some great options to consider:
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Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing the richness of the donuts.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that contrasts nicely with sweet donuts.
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Savory Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon introduces a savory element that pairs surprisingly well with sweet pastries.
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Cheese Platter: Offer an assortment of cheeses; creamy brie works particularly well alongside sweet treats.
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Nut Butter Dip: Serve almond or peanut butter as a dip for an extra protein boost and creamy texture.
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Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai enhances the spices in your donuts while providing comforting warmth on chilly days.
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Oatmeal Bowl: A bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or fruit serves as a hearty side that makes breakfast complete.
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Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars can be served alongside for those who enjoy something crunchy with their sweet treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking pumpkin donuts can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results.
- Using stale ingredients: Always check your baking powder and spices for freshness. Old ingredients can affect the rise and flavor of your donuts.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can make your donuts tough instead of fluffy.
- Not measuring flour properly: Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements. Too much flour can result in dry donuts.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allow your donuts to cool slightly before coating them in cinnamon sugar. This helps the coating stick better.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Preheat your oven fully before baking. An incorrect temperature can lead to uneven baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Ensure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent sogginess.
Freezing Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Label the bag with the date for reference.
Reheating Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one donut at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts.
Can I substitute pumpkin pie puree?
You can use homemade pumpkin puree as a substitute. Just ensure it’s not too watery.
How do I make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. The texture will still be delightful!
What is the best way to store leftover donuts?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you prefer.
Can I add chocolate chips to my Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips add an extra layer of flavor and sweetness.
Final Thoughts
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are moist, fluffy, and incredibly easy to make! Their warm, comforting flavors make them perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day. Feel free to customize with nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste!
Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Makes 6 donuts 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful warmth of Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts, a perfect treat for cozy mornings or festive gatherings. Ready in just 20 minutes, these baked donuts combine the rich flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon with a sugary topping that elevates every bite. Ideal for breakfast or as a sweet snack, these fluffy delights are sure to become a seasonal favorite. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or shared with friends, they bring comfort and joy to any table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup + 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- 1/4 cup pumpkin pie puree
- 2 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
- 1 cup sugar (for topping)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin spice.
- In another bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, melted butter, and milk until smooth.
- Gently fold wet ingredients into dry until just combined.
- Fill each donut mold halfway with batter.
- Bake for about 12 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool slightly before brushing with melted butter and rolling in cinnamon sugar.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 107mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
