If you love the taste of fall, you’ll adore these Oven-Baked Pumpkin Donuts! They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for cozy mornings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of soft, spiced donuts that are baked, not fried. Whether you’re a pumpkin lover or just looking for a fun treat, this recipe will delight your taste buds. Let’s dive in and get baking!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– Canned pumpkin puree (1 cup)
– Granulated sugar (1/2 cup)
– Brown sugar (1/2 cup)
– Eggs (2 large)
– Vegetable oil (1/3 cup)
– Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp)
– All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups)
– Baking powder (1 tsp)
– Baking soda (1/2 tsp)
– Ground cinnamon (1 tsp)
– Ground nutmeg (1/2 tsp)
– Ground ginger (1/4 tsp)
– Salt (1/4 tsp)
– Cinnamon-sugar topping (1/4 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 tsp ground cinnamon)
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to making your oven-baked pumpkin donuts. Each one plays an important role. The canned pumpkin puree brings moisture and flavor. The sugars add sweetness and help with browning. Eggs help bind everything together.
The vegetable oil keeps the donuts moist. Pure vanilla extract adds a nice depth of flavor. The all-purpose flour gives structure. Baking powder and baking soda help the donuts rise. The spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger—provide that warm fall taste. Finally, a touch of salt balances the sweetness.
You can find most of these ingredients at your local grocery store. If you want to make the donuts even more special, consider using fresh spices. They can add more flavor than pre-ground ones. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of the Oven and Mixing Ingredients
– Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease donut pan with cooking spray.
– In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
– In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt.
– Ensure even distribution of leavening agents and spices to avoid clumps.
Combining Mixtures and Filling the Pan
– Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
– Stop mixing when the batter is just combined.
– Use a piping bag or spoon to fill each donut cavity about three-quarters full.
Baking the Donuts
– Place the filled donut pan in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes.
– Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean.
Cooling and Topping
– Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
– Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
– Prepare the topping by mixing granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
– Roll each donut in the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweet finish.
For more detailed steps, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Perfect Donuts
– Avoid overmixing for a better texture: Mix until just combined. A few lumps are fine. Overmixing can make your donuts tough. You want them soft and fluffy.
– Use a piping bag for neat filling: This keeps your filling even. It also helps avoid mess. If you don’t have a piping bag, a zip-top bag with a corner cut off works well.
Baking Temperature Adjustments
– Suggestions for high-altitude baking: If you bake at a high altitude, reduce the sugar by 1-2 tablespoons. Add a bit more liquid to keep the batter moist. This helps your donuts rise better.
– Tips for adjusting for different ovens: Not all ovens heat the same. If your donuts brown too fast, lower the oven temperature by 25°F. Always check your donuts a few minutes early.
Serving Suggestions
– Presentation tips for serving: Place the warm donuts on a pretty plate. Sprinkle them with leftover cinnamon sugar. This adds a nice touch and makes them look great.
– Pairing ideas for beverages: Enjoy these donuts with hot coffee or spiced tea. They also pair well with apple cider. The flavors complement each other perfectly.
Try the Full Recipe for a delightful treat that’s easy to make!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can make these donuts even more fun by adding extras. Adding chocolate chips or walnuts gives them a tasty twist. Just mix in about a half cup of either before baking. This change makes each bite exciting. You can also adjust spices for different flavors. Try adding a bit more cinnamon for warmth or a pinch of allspice for a unique taste. These small changes can create a new favorite.
Dietary Adjustments
Need a gluten-free option? Swap all-purpose flour with almond or coconut flour. These flours work well and keep the donuts tasty. You can also use gluten-free baking mixes. If you want a lower sugar option, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit. Use these in equal amounts to the sugar in the recipe. These adjustments help you enjoy the donuts without worry.
Storage Info
How to Store Donuts
To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container. This keeps moisture in and prevents them from drying out. You can use a plastic container or a resealable bag. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. Keep them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them. However, be aware that chilling can change their texture.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze these tasty donuts, follow these steps:
1. Cool the donuts completely: Make sure they are at room temperature.
2. Wrap each donut: Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to wrap each one tightly. This prevents freezer burn.
3. Place in a freezer bag: Put the wrapped donuts in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date.
4. Freeze: Store them in the freezer for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy a donut, thaw it at room temperature. You can also warm it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This helps bring back that fresh-baked taste and texture.
FAQs
How do I know when the donuts are done baking?
To check if the donuts are done, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of a donut. If it comes out clean, the donuts are ready. This method is quick and easy. You can also gently press the top of a donut. If it springs back, it’s fully baked.
Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these donuts ahead of time. After baking, let them cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap each donut in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to three months.
What can I use as a substitute for canned pumpkin puree?
If you don’t have canned pumpkin puree, you can use homemade puree. Simply roast fresh pumpkin, then blend until smooth. You may also use sweet potato puree as a substitute. Both options will give you a similar taste and texture.
Is it necessary to use a donut pan?
No, it is not necessary to use a donut pan. If you don’t have one, you can use a muffin tin instead. Just fill the muffin cups with the batter. The baking time may change. Check for doneness as you would with donuts. You can also shape the batter by hand into rings. Just make sure they are evenly sized for even baking.
You can easily create delicious donuts with simple ingredients and steps. We discussed everything from essential ingredients to baking tips and variations. You can even adjust for dietary needs or try different flavors. Remember, allowing the donuts to cool and topping them with cinnamon sugar makes a big difference. Enjoy sharing these tasty treats with family and friends! You now have the knowledge to make perfect pumpkin donuts at home. Get your ingredients ready and start baking!
![- Canned pumpkin puree (1 cup) - Granulated sugar (1/2 cup) - Brown sugar (1/2 cup) - Eggs (2 large) - Vegetable oil (1/3 cup) - Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp) - All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups) - Baking powder (1 tsp) - Baking soda (1/2 tsp) - Ground cinnamon (1 tsp) - Ground nutmeg (1/2 tsp) - Ground ginger (1/4 tsp) - Salt (1/4 tsp) - Cinnamon-sugar topping (1/4 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 tsp ground cinnamon) Gathering these ingredients is the first step to making your oven-baked pumpkin donuts. Each one plays an important role. The canned pumpkin puree brings moisture and flavor. The sugars add sweetness and help with browning. Eggs help bind everything together. The vegetable oil keeps the donuts moist. Pure vanilla extract adds a nice depth of flavor. The all-purpose flour gives structure. Baking powder and baking soda help the donuts rise. The spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger—provide that warm fall taste. Finally, a touch of salt balances the sweetness. You can find most of these ingredients at your local grocery store. If you want to make the donuts even more special, consider using fresh spices. They can add more flavor than pre-ground ones. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). - Grease donut pan with cooking spray. - In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. - In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt. - Ensure even distribution of leavening agents and spices to avoid clumps. - Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. - Stop mixing when the batter is just combined. - Use a piping bag or spoon to fill each donut cavity about three-quarters full. - Place the filled donut pan in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. - Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean. - Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes. - Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. - Prepare the topping by mixing granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. - Roll each donut in the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweet finish. For more detailed steps, check the Full Recipe. - Avoid overmixing for a better texture: Mix until just combined. A few lumps are fine. Overmixing can make your donuts tough. You want them soft and fluffy. - Use a piping bag for neat filling: This keeps your filling even. It also helps avoid mess. If you don’t have a piping bag, a zip-top bag with a corner cut off works well. - Suggestions for high-altitude baking: If you bake at a high altitude, reduce the sugar by 1-2 tablespoons. Add a bit more liquid to keep the batter moist. This helps your donuts rise better. - Tips for adjusting for different ovens: Not all ovens heat the same. If your donuts brown too fast, lower the oven temperature by 25°F. Always check your donuts a few minutes early. - Presentation tips for serving: Place the warm donuts on a pretty plate. Sprinkle them with leftover cinnamon sugar. This adds a nice touch and makes them look great. - Pairing ideas for beverages: Enjoy these donuts with hot coffee or spiced tea. They also pair well with apple cider. The flavors complement each other perfectly. Try the Full Recipe for a delightful treat that’s easy to make! {{image_4}} You can make these donuts even more fun by adding extras. Adding chocolate chips or walnuts gives them a tasty twist. Just mix in about a half cup of either before baking. This change makes each bite exciting. You can also adjust spices for different flavors. Try adding a bit more cinnamon for warmth or a pinch of allspice for a unique taste. These small changes can create a new favorite. Need a gluten-free option? Swap all-purpose flour with almond or coconut flour. These flours work well and keep the donuts tasty. You can also use gluten-free baking mixes. If you want a lower sugar option, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit. Use these in equal amounts to the sugar in the recipe. These adjustments help you enjoy the donuts without worry. To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container. This keeps moisture in and prevents them from drying out. You can use a plastic container or a resealable bag. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. Keep them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them. However, be aware that chilling can change their texture. To freeze these tasty donuts, follow these steps: 1. Cool the donuts completely: Make sure they are at room temperature. 2. Wrap each donut: Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to wrap each one tightly. This prevents freezer burn. 3. Place in a freezer bag: Put the wrapped donuts in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date. 4. Freeze: Store them in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy a donut, thaw it at room temperature. You can also warm it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This helps bring back that fresh-baked taste and texture. To check if the donuts are done, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of a donut. If it comes out clean, the donuts are ready. This method is quick and easy. You can also gently press the top of a donut. If it springs back, it’s fully baked. Yes, you can make these donuts ahead of time. After baking, let them cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap each donut in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to three months. If you don’t have canned pumpkin puree, you can use homemade puree. Simply roast fresh pumpkin, then blend until smooth. You may also use sweet potato puree as a substitute. Both options will give you a similar taste and texture. No, it is not necessary to use a donut pan. If you don’t have one, you can use a muffin tin instead. Just fill the muffin cups with the batter. The baking time may change. Check for doneness as you would with donuts. You can also shape the batter by hand into rings. Just make sure they are evenly sized for even baking. You can easily create delicious donuts with simple ingredients and steps. We discussed everything from essential ingredients to baking tips and variations. You can even adjust for dietary needs or try different flavors. Remember, allowing the donuts to cool and topping them with cinnamon sugar makes a big difference. Enjoy sharing these tasty treats with family and friends! You now have the knowledge to make perfect pumpkin donuts at home. Get your ingredients ready and start baking!](https://meltedrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/a94014fa-e704-435e-82e5-1182a144eebb-300x300.webp)