Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, look no further than these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts! These little gems are not only moist and fluffy but also incredibly easy to whip up in just 20 minutes. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning at home or hosting a family gathering, these donuts bring warmth and joy to any occasion. The sweet aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through your kitchen is guaranteed to make everyone feel right at home.

What makes this recipe extra special is that they are baked, not fried, making them a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. You can enjoy them as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack with your favorite cup of tea or coffee. Let’s dive into why you’re going to love making these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can have fresh donuts ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: These donuts are a hit with both kids and adults alike—perfect for breakfast or dessert!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Mix the batter ahead of time and bake when you’re ready for a warm treat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin spice and cinnamon sugar creates a cozy flavor that’s perfect for fall.
• Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, these donuts are lighter but still satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry! These ingredients come together beautifully to create the moistest Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts.

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 will do)

For the Topping

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

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.
• Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and richness.
• Swap the Milk: Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option without sacrificing flavor.
• Extra Spice: If you love spice, add a bit of nutmeg or ginger to the batter for an extra kick.

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating the oven ensures that your donuts bake evenly and rise perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Batter

In a large bowl, combine the flour, light brown sugar, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin spice. Whisk them together until well blended. Then add in the pumpkin pie puree, melted butter, and milk. Mix until just combined; it’s important not to overmix so that your donuts stay light and fluffy.

Step 3: Fill Your Donut Pan

Lightly grease your donut pan with cooking spray or oil. Use a piping bag or spoon to fill each cavity about halfway with the batter. This helps them rise nicely without overflowing.

Step 4: Bake These Delicious Donuts

Place the filled donut pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 12 minutes or until they’re golden brown. A toothpick inserted should come out clean. Baking them gives these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts their fluffy texture while keeping them light!

Step 5: Toss in Cinnamon Sugar

While the donuts are baking, mix together sugar and cinnamon in a bowl for the topping. Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before brushing with melted butter and rolling them in the cinnamon sugar mixture for that irresistible coating.

And there you have it—your warm batch of Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts is ready to be enjoyed! They’re best served fresh but can also be stored in an airtight container for later indulgence. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Creating these delightful donuts is a breeze, and with a few handy tips, you’ll be a pro in no time!

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: If possible, use homemade pumpkin puree for the best flavor. It adds a freshness that canned versions might lack.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently fold the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts instead of the fluffy texture we all love.

• Preheat Your Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This ensures an even bake and helps your donuts rise beautifully.

• Coat While Warm: Roll your baked donuts in cinnamon sugar while they’re still warm. This helps the sugar stick better and creates a deliciously sweet crust.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for an extra twist! It’s a fun way to personalize your donuts according to your taste.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

These irresistible donuts not only taste amazing but also look fantastic when served right. Here are some ideas to make your presentation pop!

Garnishes

• Drizzle of Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of maple syrup adds sweetness and enhances the fall flavor profile.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries complements the sweetness of the donuts while providing a refreshing bite.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and fruit for a wholesome breakfast side that balances out the richness of the donuts.
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of your favorite coffee or spiced chai pairs perfectly with these donuts, making for a cozy morning treat.
• Oatmeal: Serve alongside a bowl of oatmeal topped with cinnamon and nuts for a hearty breakfast that keeps you satisfied longer.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re set up for success in enjoying your Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

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

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the donuts to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store the wrapped donuts in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label them with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply remove the number of donuts you want from the freezer.
• Let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Got questions? No worries! Here are some common queries about these delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts:

Can I use a different type of milk in my Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

Absolutely! You can substitute any milk you prefer, such as almond milk or oat milk, without compromising the flavor or texture of your donuts.

How do I make my Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts extra fluffy?

To ensure your donuts turn out fluffy, be sure not to overmix the batter. Gently fold dry ingredients into wet ones until just combined for that perfect texture!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for added texture and flavor. Just keep an eye on baking times, as additional ingredients may slightly alter cooking duration.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings a bit of warmth and joy to your kitchen! These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are not only quick and easy but also packed with cozy fall flavors that everyone will love. Enjoy making them as a special breakfast treat or an afternoon snack – they’re sure to brighten your day. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with loved ones!