Fall is the perfect time to indulge in warm, spiced treats. If you're looking for a cozy snack, try my Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts! These soft, fluffy donuts are packed with pumpkin flavor and coated in a sweet cinnamon crunch. In this post, I’ll share a simple recipe, packing tips, and creative variations to elevate your autumn baking. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this irresistible fall delight!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fall Flavor: This recipe perfectly captures the essence of autumn with its warm spices and pumpkin flavor.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and quick preparation, these donuts can be made in no time!
- Perfectly Soft: The texture of these donuts is wonderfully soft and fluffy, making them a delightful treat.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe by adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make cinnamon sugar pumpkin donuts:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 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 ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
Each ingredient plays a key role in flavor and texture. The pumpkin puree gives the donuts a rich, moist base. Granulated sugar and brown sugar add sweetness, while the vegetable oil keeps them tender. Eggs bind everything together, and vanilla extract adds a warm note.
In the dry mix, flour provides structure, while baking powder and baking soda help the donuts rise. Ground cinnamon and nutmeg create that cozy fall flavor, and salt enhances all the tastes. Finally, the cinnamon sugar topping makes them irresistible.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan.
- In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Use a piping bag or a zip-top bag to fill each donut cavity about 2/3 full with batter.
Baking Process
- Bake the donuts in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. They are done when a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.
- Carefully transfer the donuts to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- While the donuts cool, mix the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon in a shallow dish.
- Once the donuts are cool, roll each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Donuts
To make the best cinnamon sugar pumpkin donuts, avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing can make your donuts tough. Mix just until the wet and dry ingredients are combined.
Next, ensure even baking. Fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full for uniform donuts. This helps them rise properly.
To test if your donuts are done, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of a donut. If it comes out clean, your donuts are ready.
Serving Suggestions
For a beautiful presentation, serve your donuts on a rustic wooden platter. Sprinkle some extra cinnamon sugar on top for that wow factor. You can also add a cinnamon stick to each plate for a festive touch.
When it comes to drinks, pair these donuts with warm apple cider or a hot cup of coffee. The flavors blend perfectly and make for a cozy snack.
Kitchen Tools You'll Need
Here are some essential tools to make your donut-making easy:
- A donut pan: Choose a non-stick option for easy release.
- Mixing bowls: Have one large bowl for wet ingredients and a smaller one for dry.
- A whisk: This is perfect for blending dry ingredients smoothly.
- A piping bag: Use this to fill the donut cavities without a mess.
With these tools, you'll set yourself up for success in making these delicious treats!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: For the best flavor, consider using homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned. Roast fresh pumpkin and blend until smooth for a richer taste.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to ensure your donuts are light and fluffy.
- Cool Before Coating: Let the donuts cool completely before rolling them in cinnamon sugar to prevent the sugar from melting and clumping.
- Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Drizzle with a glaze, sprinkle with nuts, or add chocolate chips for extra flavor.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can easily tweak the flavor of your donuts. Adding nutmeg or cloves gives them a warm kick. Both spices blend well with pumpkin. If you like a deeper sweetness, try using coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar. It has a rich flavor that pairs nicely with pumpkin.
Dietary Adjustments
Want a vegan version? Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. This swap keeps your donuts moist and delicious. For gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend. It works well in this recipe and keeps the texture light.
Unique Toppings
Think beyond cinnamon sugar! Consider adding a drizzle of maple glaze or chocolate icing. These toppings make your donuts even more fun. If you're looking for healthier options, try rolling them in crushed nuts or a mix of cinnamon and coconut. Each topping gives a fresh twist to your treats!
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Donuts
To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container. This way, they won’t dry out. You can keep them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, the fridge is a good option. They can last up to five days in the fridge. Just make sure to wrap them well to avoid any odors.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to freeze your donuts, first let them cool completely. Then, wrap each donut in plastic wrap. After that, place them in a freezer bag or container. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat them, take them out and let them thaw at room temperature. For a warm treat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about five minutes. Enjoy that fresh-baked taste!
FAQs
How do I make cinnamon sugar pumpkin donuts from scratch?
To make cinnamon sugar pumpkin donuts, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with non-stick spray. In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Fill each donut cavity about 2/3 full with the batter using a piping bag. Bake for 12-15 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick. Cool for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. For the sugar coating, mix 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Roll the cooled donuts in this mixture before serving.
Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned pumpkin puree in this recipe. It saves time and ensures a smooth texture. Canned pumpkin is often more consistent in flavor and moisture than fresh pumpkin. This makes it a great choice, especially during busy fall months. Make sure to choose 100% pure pumpkin and avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices.
What can I use instead of eggs in this donut recipe?
If you want to avoid eggs, you have a few options. You can use 1/4 cup of applesauce or mashed banana for each egg. Both choices add moisture and sweetness. Another option is to mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens. This creates a good egg substitute in baking.
Where can I buy cinnamon sugar pumpkin donuts?
You can find cinnamon sugar pumpkin donuts at local bakeries or coffee shops this fall. Many grocery stores also stock seasonal treats, especially during Halloween and Thanksgiving. If you want something unique, check out farmers' markets. Some vendors offer fresh, homemade donuts that are sure to delight!
You learned how to make delicious cinnamon sugar pumpkin donuts. We covered the ingredients, step-by-step baking, and tips to perfect your donuts. Remember, mixing wet and dry ingredients well helps create soft, tasty treats. With the right toppings and storage, you can enjoy these donuts for days. Get creative with flavors and dietary options to suit everyone. Don’t hesitate to try this fun recipe at home. Your kitchen will be filled with warmth and spice!
