There’s nothing more comforting than the warm aroma of pumpkin spice filling your kitchen on a crisp fall morning. These baked pumpkin donuts are soft, fluffy, and perfectly spiced—making them the ultimate seasonal treat. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee, a pumpkin spice latte, or as a festive dessert, this recipe is quick, easy, and sure to impress.
Unlike store-bought donuts, these homemade delights use real pumpkin puree and a cozy blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, which makes them lighter without losing any of the indulgent flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
✔ Baked, Not Fried – Healthier but still soft and delicious.
✔ Perfectly Spiced – Warm fall flavors in every bite.
✔ Customizable – Add a glaze, cinnamon sugar, or keep them plain.
✔ Freezer-Friendly – Make ahead and enjoy anytime.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Donuts:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- ½ cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier option)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
Optional Toppings:
- Cinnamon sugar coating (sugar + cinnamon)
- Cream cheese glaze
- Maple glaze
- Chocolate drizzle
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a donut pan with nonstick spray.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
4. Make the Batter
Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix—this keeps the donuts fluffy.
5. Fill the Donut Pan
Spoon or pipe the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
6. Bake
Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Cool & Add Toppings
Let donuts cool for 5 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack. While warm, coat with cinnamon sugar or let cool completely before glazing.
Variations & Substitutions
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.
- Healthier Option: Replace half the sugar with maple syrup or honey.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and coconut oil instead of butter/oil.
- Air Fryer Version: Cook at 320°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes.
Nutritional Information (per donut, without glaze)
- Calories: ~210
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
(Values vary depending on ingredients used.)
Pro Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Donuts
- Use pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling—it has added sugar/spices.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it makes donuts dense.
- For even baking, use a piping bag to fill the pan neatly.
- Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 3 days or refrigerate for 1 week.
- Freeze for up to 2 months—reheat in oven at 300°F for 8 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Roll in cinnamon sugar while warm for a classic flavor.
- Drizzle with maple glaze for a sweet fall twist.
- Pair with pumpkin spice latte or chai tea for the ultimate cozy treat.
FAQ – Pumpkin Donuts
Q: Can I make these without a donut pan?
A: Yes! You can use a muffin tin—just adjust baking time by adding 3–4 minutes.
Q: Are baked donuts healthier than fried?
A: Absolutely! They use less oil but taste just as delicious.
Q: Can I freeze pumpkin donuts?
A: Yes—wrap individually in plastic and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Q: How do I keep donuts soft?
A: Store in an airtight container with a small slice of bread inside to lock in moisture.
Final Thoughts
These irresistible pumpkin donuts are the ultimate fall treat—soft, fluffy, and packed with warm spices. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack, they’re guaranteed to bring comfort and joy to your table.
👉 Try them today and let me know in the comments: What’s your favorite way to enjoy pumpkin donuts—cinnamon sugar, maple glaze, or cream cheese frosting?
And don’t forget to Pin this recipe to save it for later!
