Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Name: Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: American
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

Posted on December 23, 2025

Desserts & Sweets

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Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are the perfect treat for autumn! These delightful donuts are moist and spiced, making them ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack. The addition of a cinnamon sugar glaze elevates their flavor, ensuring they stand out at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a fall party or simply indulging in a weekend treat, these donuts will bring warmth and joy to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can have these delicious donuts ready in no time.
Perfectly Moist: The use of pumpkin puree keeps each donut incredibly moist and flavorful.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them plain or dressed with a cinnamon sugar coating for an extra touch of sweetness.
Healthier Choice: Baked instead of fried, these donuts offer a lighter option without sacrificing taste.
Autumn Bliss: Infused with warm spices, these donuts capture the essence of fall in every bite.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right tools can streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Donut pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Spatula
Piping bag or ziplock bag

Why These Tools Matter

Donut pan: This special pan helps shape your donuts perfectly while baking.
Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to mix ingredients without mess.
Piping bag or ziplock bag: These make transferring batter easy and keep your hands clean.

Ingredients

Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts: Moist, spiced pumpkin donuts baked to perfection, glazed with cinnamon sugar for a delightful autumn treat!

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

Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
– ⅓ cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon

How to Make Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). While it’s heating up, lightly spray your donut pan with non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy release after baking.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the following:
1. ½ cup pumpkin puree
2. ½ cup brown sugar
3. ¼ cup vegetable oil
4. ¼ cup milk

Make sure everything is well combined until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another smaller bowl, combine:
1. 1 cup all purpose flour
2. 1 teaspoon baking powder
3. 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
4. ½ teaspoon cinnamon
5. ¼ teaspoon salt
6. ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of spices and leavening agents.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture using a spatula. Mix until just combined; be careful not to over-mix as this can lead to dense donuts.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Transfer your batter into a piping bag or ziplock bag with one corner cut off. Pipe the batter into each cavity of the donut pan evenly.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Place the filled donut pan in your preheated oven and bake for 15–16 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when they’re ready.

Step 7: Cool the Donuts

Once baked, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before flipping them onto a cooling rack.

Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While cooling, melt two tablespoons of butter in the microwave. Using a pastry brush or by dipping each cooled donut into the melted butter will help coat them evenly.

Step 9: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

In a separate bowl, mix together:
1. ⅓ cup granulated sugar
2. 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Gently roll or flip each donut in this mixture until fully coated on both sides for that perfect sweet touch!

How to Serve Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Easy baked pumpkin donuts are a delightful treat perfect for any autumn morning or afternoon snack. They can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With Coffee

Pair your donuts with a hot cup of coffee to complement the warm spices in the pumpkin. A latte or cappuccino works especially well.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

Add a touch of sweetness by drizzling maple syrup over the top of your donuts. This adds an extra layer of flavor that enhances the pumpkin taste.

Topped with Whipped Cream

Serve your donuts with a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat. You can sprinkle some cinnamon on top for added flair.

Fresh Fruit Side

Accompany your pumpkin donuts with fresh fruit, such as apple slices or berries, to create a vibrant plate that’s both colorful and nutritious.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

For a fun twist, make mini ice cream sandwiches using two donuts and your favorite ice cream flavor. This is a hit for gatherings!

As Part of a Breakfast Platter

Include pumpkin donuts on a larger breakfast platter alongside scrambled eggs, turkey sausage, and fresh fruit for a complete meal.

How to Perfect Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your baked pumpkin donuts is simple with these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: If possible, opt for fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned. It provides more moisture and freshness in flavor.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to ensure tender donuts. Overmixing can lead to dense results.
Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated correctly before baking. An oven thermometer can help confirm accuracy.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. Adding more nutmeg or ginger can give a unique twist.
Let Them Cool Properly: Allow the donuts to cool in the pan before transferring them to avoid sogginess and maintain their shape.
Store Correctly: Keep leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Pairing side dishes with easy baked pumpkin donuts can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds protein and tanginess, balancing the sweetness of the donuts.
Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and grapes provides freshness and crunch.
Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts and honey complements the flavors while being filling.
Cheese Plate: Include a selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast against sweet donuts.
Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter on each donut half for added richness and nutrition.
Smoothie Bowl: Serve alongside a smoothie bowl packed with greens and fruits for a healthful option that pairs nicely.
Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy dessert offers texture and nutrition while enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.
Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars provide crunch and fiber, making them an excellent companion snack choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Using too much flour: This can lead to dense donuts. Always spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
Not measuring ingredients correctly: Incorrect measurements can affect texture and flavor. Use precise measuring tools for both wet and dry ingredients.
Skipping the cooling time: Cooling is essential for the glaze to adhere well. Allow your donuts to cool completely before coating them in cinnamon sugar.
Overbaking the donuts: Keep an eye on your donuts as they bake. A toothpick should come out clean when they’re ready, but overbaking can dry them out.
Neglecting to grease the pan: A well-greased donut pan ensures easy release. Don’t skip this step, or you may end up with broken donuts.

Refrigerator Storage

Donuts can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Freezing Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

You can freeze the donuts for up to 3 months.
Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Place donuts on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat each donut for about 10-15 seconds on medium power. Be careful not to overheat!
Stovetop: Warm a non-stick pan over low heat and add the donuts for a couple of minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are moist, spiced treats made with pumpkin puree, perfect for autumn mornings or any time you crave something sweet.

Can I customize my Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even swap spices based on your preference. The possibilities are endless!

How do I make these donuts healthier?

You can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use applesauce instead of oil for a lighter option.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! If using fresh pumpkin, ensure it is pureed and has no added ingredients. It should have a similar consistency to canned pumpkin puree.

How long do these donuts last?

Stored properly, Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts last about 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are not only delicious but also versatile. Whether enjoyed at breakfast or as an afternoon snack, these spiced delights are perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins or toppings!