Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

If you’re looking for the perfect treat to celebrate fall or just to enjoy on a cozy morning, these Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are just what you need! This recipe has quickly become a family favorite in my house. The delightful combination of pumpkin and warm spices fills your kitchen with a comforting aroma that will make everyone feel at home. Plus, they’re not only delicious but also suitable for various occasions—whether it’s a busy weeknight snack or a gathering with friends.

These donuts are soft, fluffy, and oh-so-satisfying. The maple glaze adds a sweet touch that perfectly complements the spices, making them irresistible. Trust me; once you try these donuts, you’ll want to whip up a batch every fall!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have these donuts ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone from kids to adults loves the sweet pumpkin flavor and tasty glaze.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the batter in advance and bake them fresh when you’re ready.
• Perfect for sharing: With 18 servings, these donuts are great for gatherings or as gifts for friends.
• Wholesome ingredients: Using gluten-free and dairy-free options means everyone can enjoy them without worry!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create mouthwatering donuts. Gather these items from your pantry or local store before you start baking!

For the Donuts

• 2 Eggs
• ¾ Cup Sugar
• 1 tsp. Vanilla
• 1 Cup Brown Sugar
• 1 Cup Pureed Pumpkin
• 1 Cup Dairy Free Milk (I used coconut)
• 3 tsp. Baking Powder
• 2 Cups GF All Purpose Flour
• 1 tsp. Xanthan Gum
• 1 tsp. Pumpkin Pie Spice
• Dash of Salt
• 1 tsp. Cinnamon
• ¼ tsp. Nutmeg

For the Maple Glaze

• 2 Cups Powdered Sugar
• 1 ½ tsp. Vanilla
• ½ tsp. Cinnamon
• ½ tsp. Maple Extract
• ½ TBSP. Coconut Milk (any dairy free milk will do)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize these donuts to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Add chocolate chips: Incorporate some dairy-free chocolate chips into the batter for extra sweetness.
• Change up the spices: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or ginger for a unique twist.
• Include nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch and additional flavor.
• Top with sprinkles: Make them festive by adding colorful sprinkles on top of the glaze.

How to Make Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your donuts bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, pureed pumpkin, and dairy-free milk until smooth. Mixing these wet ingredients well is important because it helps incorporate air into the mixture, making your donuts light and fluffy.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the GF all-purpose flour, baking powder, xanthan gum, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisking these dry ingredients together helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture while stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your donuts tender and soft.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon or pipe the batter into a greased donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full. This allows room for rising while baking without overflowing.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Letting them cool slightly in the pan before transferring them helps maintain their shape.

Step 7: Prepare Maple Glaze

While your donuts cool down, mix powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, maple extract, and coconut milk in a bowl until smooth. This glaze brings everything together with its rich flavor!

Step 8: Glaze Your Donuts

Dip each cooled donut into the maple glaze and let excess drip off before placing them on a wire rack to set. Watching that glaze cascade down is half the fun!

And there you have it—delicious Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze that will make any occasion special! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

Making these delightful pumpkin donuts is a breeze, especially with a few helpful tips!

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: If you have the time, roasting and pureeing your own pumpkin can enhance the flavor and give your donuts an extra boost of freshness.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing too much can make your donuts dense. Stir just until everything is incorporated for a light, fluffy texture.

• Let Them Cool Completely Before Glazing: If you glaze the donuts while they’re still warm, the glaze will melt off. Allow them to cool on a wire rack first for that perfect glaze finish.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding more cinnamon or even a pinch of ginger can elevate the fall flavors even further.

• Store Properly: To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze them for longer storage.

How to Serve Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

These pumpkin donuts are not only delicious but also versatile in how you can present and serve them!

Garnishes

• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: Sprinkle some chopped nuts on top of the glaze for added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut flakes make a lovely addition that adds texture and enhances the tropical notes of coconut milk in the recipe.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with apples, pears, and cranberries complements the sweetness of the donuts while adding refreshing textures.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a delightful contrast that balances out the sweetness of the donuts.
• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, like chai or peppermint, pairs beautifully with these sweet treats, enhancing their cozy feel.
• Maple Syrup Drizzle: For those who love extra sweetness, serve a small dish of maple syrup on the side for dipping or drizzling over each donut.

With these serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress your family and friends with this irresistible fall treat! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week, making your mornings a little sweeter.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer them fresher for longer, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• For optimal flavor and texture, enjoy them within the first few days!

Freezing

• Allow the donuts to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen donuts to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warmed through.
• If you prefer a crispy exterior, warm them in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making these delicious donuts.

Can I make Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) or chia eggs for a vegan option.

How do I ensure my Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze turn out fluffy?

To achieve fluffy donuts, be sure not to overmix your batter. Mix just until combined, and make sure your baking powder is fresh!

What can I use instead of coconut milk for this recipe?

You can use any dairy-free milk alternative such as almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk depending on your preference.

How long will my Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts stay fresh?

If stored properly at room temperature, they will stay fresh for about 3 days. In the fridge, they can last up to a week.

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the donut batter?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the batter before baking for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze as much as I do! They’re not only easy to prepare but also bring that warm fall flavor right to your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing with friends or savoring alone with your morning coffee, these donuts are bound to brighten your day. Happy baking!