Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Baked Pumpkin Donuts are the ultimate fall treat, perfectly spiced and delightfully fluffy. These donuts combine warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor for a dessert that feels like a cozy autumn hug. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, making them a slightly healthier indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a great way to enjoy seasonal pumpkin flavor in a fun, handheld treat.

These donuts are baked, which means less mess and a lighter texture.

The cinnamon sugar coating adds the perfect touch of sweetness and spice.

Quick and simple to make, they’re ready in under 30 minutes.

They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or hot cider.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the donuts:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon cinnamon

½ teaspoon nutmeg

½ teaspoon ginger

¼ teaspoon cloves

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup granulated sugar

1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

½ cup brown sugar, packed

2 large eggs

⅓ cup vegetable oil

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cinnamon sugar coating:

½ cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Directions

Make the donuts:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt.

In a large bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each mold about three-quarters full.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when gently pressed, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool slightly.

Coat the donuts:

In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the coating.

Lightly brush each donut with melted butter.

Roll or dip the donuts in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat them evenly.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12 donuts. The preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and the baking time is 12-15 minutes, so you can have these ready in under 30 minutes!

Variations

Glazed Donuts: Swap the cinnamon sugar coating for a simple vanilla glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla extract.

Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter or drizzle melted chocolate over the finished donuts.

Spiced Up: Increase the spices for an extra bold flavor profile or try adding a pinch of cardamom.

Mini Donuts: Use a mini donut pan and adjust the baking time to 8-10 minutes.

Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based milk, and replace butter with vegan margarine.

Storage/Reheating

Store these donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to enjoy them warm, reheat them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated 300°F oven for a few minutes.

Related Recipes:

• Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Cake Donuts
• Banana Bread Donuts
• Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pumpkin puree works well in this recipe. Just make sure it’s smooth and not overly watery.

What if I don’t have a donut pan?

You can use a muffin tin instead, but the texture will be more like muffins than donuts.

Can I freeze these donuts?

Absolutely! Freeze them without the cinnamon sugar coating in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and coat them just before serving.

How do I prevent the donuts from sticking to the pan?

Grease your donut pan thoroughly with cooking spray or butter to ensure easy release.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind that it may affect the overall sweetness and flavor balance.

Conclusion

Baked Pumpkin Donuts are a delicious and easy way to celebrate the flavors of fall. They’re soft, warmly spiced, and perfect for cozy mornings or festive gatherings. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite variations, these donuts are sure to become a seasonal favorite. Enjoy.

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