Get ready to fill your kitchen with the warm scents of fall! These Baked Pumpkin Spice Donuts are a delicious, easy treat you’ll want to make this season. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create fluffy donuts that will impress your friends and family. Ready to dive into the world of pumpkin spice? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
To make baked pumpkin spice donuts, you need the right ingredients. These items create soft, tasty treats bursting with flavor. Gather the following:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
– 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
These ingredients come together to create a delightful donut. The pumpkin adds moisture, while the spices give it that warm, cozy taste. Mixing sugars creates the right sweetness. Applesauce keeps the donuts light and fluffy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Donut Pan
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease the donut pan with non-stick spray.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
– In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla.
– Whisk until the mixture is smooth.
Combining Dry Ingredients
– In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
– Gradually mix this into the wet ingredients until just combined.
Filling the Donut Pan
– Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a zip-lock bag.
– Pipe the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.
Baking the Donuts
– Bake in the preheated oven for 15-17 minutes.
– Check doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Glazing the Donuts
– Cool for 5 minutes in the pan.
– Dip the tops in a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Enjoy making these treats!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the best texture, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until the dry and wet ingredients blend. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts. Also, use room-temperature ingredients. They blend better and create a fluffier donut.
Enhancing Flavor
To boost flavor, add a dash of vanilla extract into the glaze. This small change makes a big difference. You can also experiment with extra spices. Try adding a pinch of allspice or cardamom for a unique twist.
Presentation Tips
For a great presentation, arrange your donuts on a decorative plate. This makes them look even more inviting. Finally, sprinkle a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top. This adds a nice visual and aromatic touch that enhances your baked pumpkin spice donuts.
Variations
Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts
Want to kick up your donut game? Add espresso powder to the batter. This gives your donuts a rich, coffee flavor. The bold taste pairs perfectly with pumpkin spice. Just mix in about 1 to 2 teaspoons of espresso powder. It’s an easy way to make your morning treat extra special.
Vegan Baked Pumpkin Spice Donuts
If you’re looking for a vegan option, I have you covered. Substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal and use plant-based milk. To make the flaxseed meal, mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. This creates a great binder for your donut batter. The result is just as fluffy and delicious as the original!
Chocolate Glazed Version
For chocolate lovers, try a chocolate glaze. Mix cocoa powder with powdered sugar and milk to create a rich coating. Just whisk together 1/4 cup of cocoa powder and 1 cup of powdered sugar, adding enough milk to reach your desired thickness. Dip the tops of your cooled donuts into this chocolatey goodness. It’s a fun twist on the classic pumpkin spice flavor!
Storage Info
Room Temperature Storage
Store your baked pumpkin spice donuts in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days. This way, you can enjoy them during breakfast or as a snack.
Refrigeration Advice
If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate the donuts. They can last for up to 1 week in an airtight container. This method helps preserve the flavor and moisture.
Freezing Instructions
To save donuts for later, freeze them. Wrap each donut in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature before serving. Enjoy that fresh taste again!
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, but ensure it is well-cooked and pureed. Fresh pumpkin adds a nice flavor. Roasting or steaming works well to soften it. After cooking, let it cool before pureeing.
Are these donuts gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. Many brands work well in this recipe. Just check the measurements since some flours absorb more liquid.
How can I make the glaze thicker?
Add more powdered sugar until the desired consistency is achieved. Start with a small amount and mix well. This makes it easy to adjust the thickness based on your taste.
What can I serve these donuts with?
They are great with coffee, cider, or a side of sliced apples. The spices in the donuts blend well with these drinks. You can even serve them with whipped cream for a treat!
How do I know when the donuts are done baking?
Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted into the center. If it comes out wet, bake a few minutes longer. This ensures your donuts are light and fluffy.
These pumpkin donuts are easy to make and taste great. We covered each step, from mixing the batter to glazing the donuts. Remember to use room-temperature ingredients for a nice texture. You can even try variations like vegan options or chocolate glaze. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Enjoy making these treats and sharing them with friends or family!
