Craving a cozy fall treat? Look no further! These pumpkin spice baked donuts are exactly what you need. Soft, cake-like, and bursting with warm pumpkin spice flavors, they are incredibly easy to make and will quickly become a family favorite.
What are Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts?
Have you ever wondered how the humble donut skyrocketed to autumn fame, dressed in the vibrant hues of pumpkin spice? Pumpkin spice baked donuts – the name itself conjures images of cozy mornings, crisp air, and the comforting aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg. But why cake-style, you might ask?
Are we bakers, artists, or perhaps mad scientists experimenting with the perfect donut density? The truth is, these donuts are baked, not fried, giving them a texture reminiscent of a soft, moist cake. They’re quicker to make, slightly healthier, and just as satisfying as their fried cousins. After all, ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,’ and these donuts will win over everyone! So, are you ready to experience donut nirvana? Bake a batch today and taste the magic for yourself!
Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts
These donuts are a symphony of flavors and textures, all packaged into a perfectly portioned treat. The highlight of these baked donuts is their soft, cake-like texture infused with the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin and spice, making them perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat.
Making them at home saves you money compared to buying from fancy bakeries, and allows you to customize the sweetness and spice levels to your preference. Icing them with a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk, or adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar takes them to the next level!
If you’re a fan of fall flavors and want something a little different, try our [Spiced Apple Fritters](link to hypothetical recipe). But for a quick, easy, and satisfying pumpkin fix, these baked donuts are the way to go! Don’t wait – give them a try and experience the joy of homemade donuts.
Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful donuts:
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 1/2 cups, sifted for a lighter texture
- Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon, for the perfect rise
- Baking Soda: 1/2 teaspoon, for extra lift and browning
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: 1 1/2 teaspoons, the heart and soul of the flavor
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon, to balance the sweetness
- Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup, for just the right amount of sweetness
- Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup, packed, for moisture and depth of flavor
- Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons), melted and cooled
- Pumpkin Puree: 1 cup, not pumpkin pie filling
- Eggs: 1 large, lightly beaten
- Milk: 1/2 cup, helps to create a lovely moist texture
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, enhances all the flavors
- Icing (Optional):
- Powdered Sugar: 1 cup
- Milk: 2-3 tablespoons, or more for desired consistency
- Cinnamon (Optional): 1/4 teaspoon
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts
These baked donuts are incredibly easy to whip up, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll get a batch of perfectly spiced, cake-like donuts that are bursting with pumpkin flavor. The simple instructions and minimal ingredients make them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preheat Oven and Prepare Donut Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a donut pan. This step is important to ensure the donuts release easily. If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin, but the shape will be different.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Make sure these are well combined before adding to the wet ingredients for more even distribution.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, pumpkin puree, egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Ensure the butter is cooled slightly so it doesn’t cook the egg.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix – a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts.
Fill Donut Pan: Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a large resealable bag. Cut off the corner and pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full. Alternatively, you can carefully spoon the batter into the pan.
Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as bake times can vary depending on your oven.
Cool: Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make Icing (Optional): In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. If desired, stir in cinnamon.
Decorate: Dip the tops of the cooled donuts into the icing, or drizzle the icing over the donuts. Sprinkle with extra cinnamon or your favorite toppings.
Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy this cake-style pumpkin spice donuts!
What to Serve Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts With
These pumpkin spice baked donuts are delicious on their own, but to elevate the experience, consider pairing them with:
- A warm cup of coffee: The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of the donuts.
- A glass of cold milk: A classic pairing that’s always a hit.
- Apple cider: Embrace the fall vibes with a cup of warm or chilled apple cider.
- Vanilla ice cream: For an extra indulgent treat, serve the donuts warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can even crumble a donut on top for added texture.
Top Tips for Perfecting Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter leads to tough donuts. Mix until just combined for a tender crumb.
- Use a Piping Bag: Piping the batter into the donut pan gives you more control and avoids a mess. If you don’t have a piping bag, a ziplock bag with a corner cut off works just as well.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the donuts are done. If it comes out clean, they’re ready.
- Adjust Spices to Taste: If you prefer a more intense spice flavor, add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice.
- Substitutions:
- Flour: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for gluten-free donuts.
- Milk: Use almond milk, soy milk, or another non-dairy alternative.
- Sugar: Use coconut sugar for a less refined sweetener.
- Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Try chopped nuts, sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or a maple glaze.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Storing: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the donuts, un-iced, in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before icing and serving.
- Reheating: Reheat the donuts in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes, to warm them up slightly.
Final Thoughts
These pumpkin spice baked donuts are a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of fall. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, this cake-style donut recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy every bite!
FAQs
Q: Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
A: No, pumpkin pie filling is sweetened and spiced, which will affect the outcome of the recipe. Use pure pumpkin puree.
Q: Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bake the donuts ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. Ice them just before serving.
Q: My donuts are dry. What did I do wrong?
A: Overbaking or overmixing the batter can cause dry donuts. Make sure to measure ingredients accurately and avoid overmixing. Also, avoid using pre spiced pumpkin puree. Check donut for doneness at the minimum baking time suggested.
Q: Can I make these into muffins instead of donuts?
A: Yes, you can bake the batter in a muffin tin. The baking time may need to be adjusted, so check them for doneness after about 15 minutes.
Q: Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?
A: Absolutely! Chocolate chips would be a delicious addition to these donuts. Fold them into the batter before filling the donut pan.
Q: The icing is too thick/thin. What should I do?
A: If the icing is too thick, add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time.
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest