Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe

If you are on the hunt for an irresistibly cozy treat that celebrates all the warm flavors of fall, look no further than this Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe. These donuts are soft, tender, and perfectly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, complemented by a sweet and crunchy cinnamon sugar coating that elevates each bite. The magic happens in the oven rather than a fryer, making them a lighter, yet equally delicious version of a classic favorite. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a festive gathering, these donuts are sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To craft the perfect batch of these Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe, all you need are simple pantry staples that come together beautifully. Each ingredient plays a crucial role — from the pumpkin puree adding moistness and warmth, to the spices creating that signature autumnal flavor.

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone that gives the donuts structure and a soft crumb.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the donuts rise and stay light.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acids in pumpkin to create a tender texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness and spices.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and classic spice flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Deepens the aromatic profile of the donuts.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Gives a subtle zing that complements the pumpkin.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a hint of earthiness.
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness without overpowering.
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar: Adds moisture and a slight caramel note.
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: The heart of the recipe, delivering moistness and rich pumpkin flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the donuts tender and moist.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its sweet aroma.
• 1/4 cup milk: Balances the batter and helps with consistency.
• For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating: 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted), 1/3 cup granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon — these finishing touches create that signature delightful coating.

How to Make Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a donut pan to ensure your donuts come out cleanly and retain their beautiful shape once baked.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together all your dry ingredients including flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the quartet of warming spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This blend of spices is what brings the Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe to life, filling your kitchen with the scent of fall.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a larger bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth, cohesive mixture. This creamy combination will lend the donuts their moist texture and rich flavor.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Now, gently fold the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture, alternating with the milk to keep the batter light and fluffy. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; just stir until everything is combined.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon the batter into a piping bag or a sturdy zip-top bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe the batter into each donut mold, filling each ring about two-thirds full. This ensures they bake evenly and rise to a perfect height.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the donuts spring back lightly to the touch. Let them cool briefly in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While your donuts are cooling, melt the butter in a small bowl. In another bowl, mix granulated sugar with cinnamon — this is the sweet, crunchy topping that will coat every donut to perfection.

Step 8: Coat the Donuts

When the donuts are cool enough to handle but still warm, brush each one with melted butter, then dip them generously into the cinnamon sugar mixture so they get a complete coating. This step adds a wonderful texture contrast and irresistible flavor.

Step 9: Set and Enjoy!

Place the coated donuts back on the wire rack to let the coating set. Then, it’s time to dig in and savor every bit of these homemade delights!

How to Serve Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a dusting of powdered sugar on top to give your donuts a little extra flair and texture. A light drizzle of maple glaze or cream cheese icing can also amplify their cozy sweetness wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Serve these donuts alongside a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a spiced latte for a truly comforting treat. Fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears can add a refreshing contrast and make your snack or breakfast well balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these donuts on a rustic wooden board with autumn leaves or small pumpkins as decoration for an inviting fall display. You can also stack them in a tiered stand to impress guests at a brunch or holiday gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days without losing their softness.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to two months, perfect for making ahead and enjoying anytime autumn cravings strike.

Reheating

Warm frozen or refrigerated donuts in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or pop them in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 minutes. This refreshes their soft texture and makes the cinnamon sugar coating even more irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Fresh pumpkin can be used but it needs to be cooked and pureed very smoothly. Keep in mind that fresh pumpkin may have more water content, so you might need to adjust the other liquid ingredients slightly to keep the batter from becoming too runny.

What if I don’t have a donut pan? Can I use a muffin tin?

You absolutely can bake the batter in a muffin tin, but the texture and shape will be different. Fill muffin cups about two-thirds full and bake slightly longer, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

Is it possible to make these gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or add some to help the donuts hold together and maintain a good texture.

Can I make these donuts dairy-free?

Definitely. Use a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk and substitute the butter in the cinnamon sugar coating with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine.

How can I make these donuts more festive for a party?

Try adding colorful sprinkles over the cinnamon sugar coating or drizzle with white chocolate. You could also serve them with flavored cream cheese dips or pumpkin-flavored spreads to wow your guests.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about homemade donuts, and this Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe brings warmth, flavor, and simple joy in every bite. Whether you’re cozying up on a crisp morning or sharing with friends and family, these donuts capture the essence of autumn beautifully. I can’t wait for you to try them and make these your new seasonal favorite!

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