Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Moist and fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are the perfect fall treat. These baked delights come together in just 20 minutes, making them ideal for busy mornings or cozy gatherings. Their warm pumpkin flavor is perfectly complemented by a sweet cinnamon sugar topping, making them a hit for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With only 20 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy homemade donuts without the fuss.
- Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, these donuts are lighter but still full of flavor.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a festive dessert during fall celebrations.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of pumpkin spice and cinnamon sugar creates a comforting taste that everyone will love.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Involve the kids in the donut-making process; it’s a fun activity everyone can enjoy!
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything on hand will help streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Donut pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Donut pan: This specialized pan gives your donuts their perfect shape and helps them bake evenly.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows for easier mixing of dry and wet ingredients separately.
- Whisk: Ensures that all ingredients are thoroughly combined for a uniform batter.
Ingredients
Moist and fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts are baked, not fried, and ready in just 20 minutes!
Dry Ingredients
- 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
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup pumpkin pie puree
- 2 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk (any type will do)
Topping Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon
How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your donuts bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Donut Pan
Grease your donut pan with non-stick spray or a little melted butter to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Light brown sugar
3. Salt
4. Baking powder
5. Pumpkin spice
Whisk them together until well blended.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix:
1. Pumpkin pie puree
2. Melted unsalted butter
3. Milk
Stir until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together using a rubber spatula until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Fill the Donut Pan
Using a piping bag or spoon, fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full with batter.
Step 7: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping
While donuts are baking, mix:
1. Sugar
2. Cinnamon
in a small bowl.
Step 9: Coat with Topping
Once baked, let the donuts cool slightly before brushing them with melted butter and rolling them in cinnamon sugar to coat.
Enjoy these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts fresh from your oven!
How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these donuts add a cozy touch to any occasion.
With Coffee
- Pair your donuts with a hot cup of coffee for the perfect morning pick-me-up. The rich flavors of the pumpkin and cinnamon complement the boldness of coffee beautifully.
At a Brunch
- Serve these moist donuts at brunch gatherings. They’re an excellent addition to any spread, alongside savory dishes and fresh fruit.
As a Dessert
- Enjoy them warm as a comforting dessert. A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce can elevate the experience even further.
With Ice Cream
- Top your donut with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm donut and cold ice cream creates a delightful treat.
For Gifting
- Package these donuts in cute boxes as gifts for friends and family during fall celebrations. They make thoughtful homemade treats that everyone will love.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
To achieve the ultimate Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts, follow these tips for success.
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and spices are fresh for the best flavor and rise.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the donuts light and fluffy.
- Preheat your oven: A fully preheated oven helps the donuts bake evenly and rise properly.
- Check doneness: Use a toothpick to check if they are baked through; it should come out clean when inserted.
- Coat while warm: Roll the donuts in cinnamon sugar while they are still warm for better adherence.
- Store properly: Keep leftover donuts in an airtight container to maintain their moisture and freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts can be complemented with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweet flavors of the donuts.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that pairs well with coffee.
- Scrambled Eggs: Savory scrambled eggs provide protein and offset the sweetness of the donuts perfectly.
- Spiced Cider: Warm spiced cider is an ideal drink companion during fall, enhancing the autumn vibe.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses works well for brunch, offering contrasting flavors to the sweet donuts.
- Maple Syrup Dipping Sauce: A small bowl of maple syrup adds another layer of sweetness for dipping enjoyment.
- Nuts and Seeds Mix: A crunchy trail mix offers texture contrast and healthy fats alongside your treats.
- Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge in a chocolate milkshake as an exciting beverage option that pairs deliciously with pumpkin flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One of the keys to making perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts is avoiding common mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using stale ingredients – Always check the freshness of your baking powder and spices. Fresh ingredients yield better flavor and texture.
- Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to dense donuts. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
- Not measuring accurately – Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure accuracy. This helps maintain the right balance of flavors.
- Skipping the cooling time – Allowing the donuts to cool before adding sugar prevents it from melting away. Patience pays off!
- Ignoring oven temperature – Ensure your oven is preheated correctly. An inaccurate temperature can affect baking time and donut texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.
Freezing Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer bag or container.
- They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm donuts for about 5-7 minutes for best results.
- Microwave – Heat for 10-15 seconds per donut, but be cautious not to overheat as they can become tough.
- Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts so special?
Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are special because they combine the warm flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon, creating a cozy treat perfect for fall mornings or any time you crave something sweet.
Can I use different types of milk in this recipe?
Yes! You can use any type of milk you prefer, such as almond milk or whole milk. Each will slightly change the flavor but will still work well.
How do I customize my Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?
You can customize these donuts by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even a glaze on top instead of cinnamon sugar. Get creative with your favorite flavors!
Are these donuts suitable for vegan diets?
Yes! By using plant-based milk and substituting butter with coconut oil, you can easily make these donuts vegan-friendly without sacrificing taste.
Final Thoughts
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are not only delicious but also versatile. They’re quick to prepare, making them an ideal breakfast or snack option. Feel free to experiment with add-ins and toppings to suit your taste preferences!
Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts. Baked to perfection, these moist and fluffy treats take only 20 minutes from start to finish, making them an ideal choice for busy mornings or festive gatherings. With a warm pumpkin essence enhanced by a sweet cinnamon sugar coating, these donuts are perfect for any occasion—whether enjoyed as breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Gather your loved ones in the kitchen and create delicious memories while baking these easy-to-make delights that everyone will adore.
Ingredients
- 1 cup + 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 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
- For topping: 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
- In one bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin spice.
- In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, melted butter, and milk until smooth.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed; do not overmix.
- Fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full and bake for approximately 12 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow donuts to cool slightly before brushing with melted butter and rolling in a cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut (45g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
