These baked pumpkin donuts are soft, moist, and packed with warm autumn spices. Unlike fried donuts, they are baked to perfection, making them a lighter yet equally delicious treat. The combination of pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a rich, comforting flavor, while the brown sugar icing adds a touch of sweetness. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack, these donuts are easy to make and require no deep frying.
Ingredients:
- Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 ½ cups dark brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- ⅔ cup milk
- 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- Brown Sugar Icing (Optional):
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup milk
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Batter:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a donut pan with non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the oil, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until combined.
- Fill the Donut Pan:
- Spoon the batter into the donut cavities, filling each about halfway.
- For a cleaner process, transfer the batter into a large zip-top bag, cut off a corner, and pipe the batter into the donut molds.
- Bake the Donuts:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges and tops are lightly browned.
- To test for doneness, gently press the top of a donut—if it bounces back, they’re ready.
- Let the donuts cool in the pan for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Prepare the Brown Sugar Icing (Optional):
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with milk and brown sugar. Stir until smooth.
- Bring to a simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
- Whisk in the vanilla extract and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Dip the tops of the donuts into the warm icing and place them on a wire rack to set.
- Final Touches:
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts or cinnamon sugar for extra flavor.
- Serve warm with coffee or tea for a cozy autumn treat.
These baked pumpkin donuts are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fall without the hassle of frying. Whether topped with icing or enjoyed plain, they are sure to be a hit!
For more details, check out the full recipe here. Happy baking! 🍩🎃