Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that screams autumn, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are just what you need! They’re the kind of sweet indulgence that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia. Imagine biting into a moist and fluffy donut, perfectly spiced with pumpkin and cinnamon, all without the fuss of frying. I love making these on busy weeknights or for family gatherings—everyone enjoys them, and they vanish in no time!

These delightful donuts are not only quick to whip up but also bring the essence of fall right into your kitchen. Whether it’s a chilly morning or a joyful celebration with loved ones, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts fit perfectly into any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can have these donuts ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves donuts! This recipe is perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Baked Not Fried: Enjoy the guilt-free pleasure of donuts that are baked to fluffy perfection.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite spices or toppings for a personal touch.
• Perfect for Fall: These donuts capture the flavors of the season and are great for sharing at gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts is a breeze with simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what you’ll need:

For the Donuts

• 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
• 1/4 cup pumpkin pie puree
• 2 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk (any type works, but whole gives it a rich flavor)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Some Chocolate: Mix in chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise!
• Nutty Delight: Sprinkle some chopped nuts into the batter for added texture.
• Extra Spicy: Increase the amount of pumpkin spice or add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
• Glazed Option: Instead of rolling them in cinnamon sugar, dip your cooled donuts in an icing glaze for a different flavor experience.

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your donuts bake evenly and come out fluffy. While that’s warming up, grab your donut pan and lightly grease it so they pop out easily later.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, light brown sugar, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin spice. Mixing dry ingredients well helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the pumpkin pie puree, melted butter, and milk. Stir until smooth. Then gently fold this mixture into your dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those donuts light and airy!

Step 4: Fill the Pan

Spoon the batter into your prepared donut pan—fill each well about halfway full. This allows room for rising while baking without overflowing.

Step 5: Bake

Pop those beauties in the oven for about 12 minutes or until they spring back when touched lightly. Baking them makes them healthier than traditional fried options while still being delicious!

Step 6: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

Once baked and slightly cooled, brush each donut with melted butter and roll them in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon until thoroughly coated. This gives every bite that delightful sweetness we crave!

And there you have it—your very own homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts! Enjoy them warm with a cup of coffee or tea. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Making these delightful donuts can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: Opt for homemade or freshly opened canned pumpkin puree to ensure maximum flavor and moisture in your donuts. This gives them that rich pumpkin taste we all love.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep your donuts light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense and chewy results—definitely not what we want!

• Grease the donut pan well: Even if you’re using a non-stick donut pan, a light coat of cooking spray or melted coconut oil will prevent sticking and make removal easy. You want your donuts to come out cleanly for that perfect presentation.

• Let them cool slightly before coating: Allow your donuts to cool for a few minutes after baking before tossing them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This prevents the sugar from melting away and gives you that beautiful coating.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste! Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can give an exciting twist to the classic pumpkin spice flavor.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. Here’s how you can present them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Drizzle of maple syrup: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup adds sweetness and richness, perfectly complementing the warm spices.
• Chopped nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top provide a delightful crunch and extra flavor. Plus, they look beautiful!
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on the side makes for a luscious accompaniment that pairs beautifully with the flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A bright mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the donuts.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a nutritious side that complements your sweet treats.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea is perfect alongside these donuts, enhancing their cozy flavors while providing a comforting drink option.
• Spiced apple cider: Serve warm spiced apple cider for an inviting fall beverage that pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin flavor in these donuts.

With these serving suggestions, your Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts will become even more delightful! Enjoy every fluffy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They are best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the donuts to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature if frozen, or microwave for about 10-15 seconds if at room temperature.
• For a fresh-baked taste, you can also warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

If you’re curious about these delicious donuts, here are some common questions that might help!

Can I make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture will remain delightful!

How do I ensure my Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts come out fluffy?

Make sure not to overmix the batter; gentle folding is key! Also, using fresh pumpkin puree can enhance the moisture content.

What is the best way to serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

These donuts shine when served warm, dusted with cinnamon sugar. Pair them with your favorite coffee or tea for a cozy treat!

Can I use different types of milk in Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

Yes! You can use any plant-based milk like almond milk or oat milk as an alternative to dairy milk without compromising flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these scrumptious Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts as much as I do! They’re not only easy and quick but also bring that warm fall flavor into your home any time of year. Whether you share them with loved ones or savor each bite yourself, they’re bound to put a smile on your face. Happy baking!