Fall is here, and nothing says cozy like Easy Baked Pumpkin Spice Donuts. These treats are soft, fluffy, and bursting with pumpkin flavor. They’re perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. In this post, I’ll guide you through each step, from ingredients to baking tips. Get ready to impress your friends and family with donuts that taste as good as they look! Let’s dive into the delicious world of pumpkin spice!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Easy Baked Pumpkin Spice Donuts
To make these easy baked pumpkin spice donuts, you need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for topping)
Each ingredient plays an important role. The pumpkin puree gives the donuts moisture and flavor. The sugars add sweetness and help with texture. Vegetable oil makes them soft and fluffy, while eggs provide structure.
For the dry mix, all-purpose flour is the base. Baking powder and baking soda help them rise, while pumpkin pie spice adds that warm, cozy flavor we love. Finally, a sprinkle of cinnamon and powdered sugar on top makes each bite even better.
For the full recipe, you can check the detailed instructions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Donut Pan
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease the donut pan with non-stick spray.
Before you mix anything, make sure your oven is hot. This helps the donuts rise well. Greasing the pan is key to prevent sticking. You want those donuts to pop out easily.
Mixing the Wet Ingredients
– Combine pumpkin puree, sugars, oil, eggs, and vanilla.
In a big bowl, add the pumpkin puree. Then, mix in both sugars. The granulated sugar gives sweetness, while brown sugar adds richness. Next, pour in the vegetable oil, crack the eggs, and add vanilla extract. Whisk it all together till smooth. This mix gives your donuts moisture and flavor.
Combining Dry Ingredients
– Whisk together flour, baking powder, soda, spice, and salt.
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices. It helps your donuts rise and taste great.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
– Mix together until just combined.
Now, pour the dry mix into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Don’t worry about lumps. Overmixing makes donuts dense. You want a fluffy texture, so mix just enough.
Filling the Donut Pan
– Use a spoon or piping bag to fill the pan.
Grab a spoon or a piping bag. Fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full. This lets them rise without overflowing. It’s fun to see the batter take shape in the pan.
Baking the Donuts
– Bake for 12-15 minutes and check for doneness.
Place the pan in the oven and set a timer for 12 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your donuts are ready. Let them cool for a bit before taking them out of the pan.
For the full recipe, check out the details above!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Texture
To get soft and fluffy donuts, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix until just combined. This helps keep the donuts light. Small lumps are okay. After baking, let the donuts cool in the pan for about five minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack. This step prevents sogginess and keeps them airy.
Enhancing Flavor
You can add extra spices for more flavor. Try a pinch of nutmeg or allspice. Both spices pair well with pumpkin. For the topping, mix powdered sugar with ground cinnamon. This gives a nice sweet crunch. You could also use maple syrup for a unique touch.
Visual Aids
Consider adding images or step-by-step videos of the process. Visual aids help you see what each stage looks like. This can make baking easier. Watching someone else makes it more fun, too! Check out the Full Recipe for more tips and ideas.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can mix up the flavors of your donuts. One fun idea is to make chocolate pumpkin spice donuts. Just add cocoa powder to the dry mix. You’ll get a rich, chocolatey taste with that warm pumpkin spice flavor. Another tasty option is a maple-flavored variation. Swap out some sugar for maple syrup. This will give your donuts a sweet twist and a lovely aroma.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend. It works well in the recipe and keeps your donuts soft. For a vegan adaptation, replace the eggs with flax eggs or applesauce. You can also use a plant-based oil. These changes keep the donuts moist and fluffy without animal products.
Serving Suggestions
These donuts pair great with beverages. Try serving them with coffee or chai tea for a cozy treat. You might also want to add toppings. A drizzle of maple glaze or a sprinkle of nuts can enhance the flavor. For a fun touch, serve them on a festive plate to impress your guests.
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Donuts
To keep your pumpkin spice donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. You can also place a piece of bread in the container. The bread keeps the donuts moist. I recommend eating the donuts within three days for the best taste and texture. If you want to store them longer, you can freeze them.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your donuts, the oven is your best friend. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the donuts on a baking sheet for about 5 to 7 minutes. This method helps keep them soft and fluffy. You can also use a microwave. Heat each donut for about 10 to 15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, or they may become tough. Enjoy your warm donuts with a hot drink!
FAQs
What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?
If you don’t have pumpkin puree, you can use these options:
– Mashed sweet potatoes: Use the same amount as pumpkin puree.
– Applesauce: Use the same amount. It adds sweetness.
– Butternut squash puree: Use 1 cup, just like pumpkin.
These alternatives maintain the creamy texture and flavor.
How do I know when my donuts are done baking?
Check for these signs:
– A toothpick inserted into a donut comes out clean.
– The edges pull away slightly from the pan.
– The donuts spring back when you gently touch the tops.
These indicators mean your donuts are soft and fluffy inside.
Can I freeze baked pumpkin spice donuts?
Yes, you can freeze them! Here’s how:
– Allow the donuts to cool completely.
– Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
– Label the bag with the date. Store for up to 3 months.
To thaw, leave them in the fridge overnight or warm them in the oven.
How to make homemade pumpkin pie spice?
Making pumpkin pie spice is easy. Here’s a simple blend:
– 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
– 1 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
Mix well and store in a jar. This spice mix is perfect for many fall recipes.
Is it necessary to grease the donut pan?
Yes, greasing the donut pan is important. Here’s why:
– It helps the donuts release easily after baking.
– Non-stick spray or oil prevents sticking.
– You can also use parchment paper for added ease.
Using grease guarantees perfectly shaped donuts every time.
You learned how to make easy baked pumpkin spice donuts. We covered ingredients, instructions, tips, variations, storage, and FAQs. With just a few steps, you can bake fluffy donuts full of flavor. Remember to avoid overmixing for the best texture. Your donut options are endless with flavor twists and dietary tweaks. These treats are perfect for any occasion, from cozy mornings to holiday gatherings. Now, gather your ingredients and enjoy the joy of baking delicious donuts that everyone will love.
