Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Moist and fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating fall, hosting a brunch, or simply indulging in a sweet snack, these baked donuts are quick to make and incredibly delicious. With their warm pumpkin flavor and sugary cinnamon topping, they are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These donuts are ready in just 20 minutes, making them ideal for busy mornings.
• Baked Not Fried: Enjoy a healthier version of donuts without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these donuts fit any mood.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use various milk types and oils to suit your dietary preferences or what’s on hand.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve your children in baking these delightful treats; they’ll love both the process and the result!

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts, gather your tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Donut pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Donut pan: Essential for shaping your donuts perfectly during baking.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in organizing ingredients easily while mixing.
• Whisk: Ensures that your batter is well combined and fluffy.

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) to ensure it’s hot enough when you put the donuts in.

Step 2: Prepare the Donut Pan

Grease your donut pan lightly with cooking spray or melted butter. This step helps prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin spice.
2. Whisk together until everything is evenly blended.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Combine pumpkin pie puree, melted unsalted butter, and milk.
2. Stir until well mixed.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients:
1. Gently fold with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; small lumps are okay.

Step 6: Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon the batter into each donut mold about halfway full to allow room for rising.

Step 7: Bake the Donuts

Place the pan in the preheated oven:
– Bake for about 12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool & Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

Once baked:
1. Let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.
2. Remove from the pan and let them cool completely on a cooling rack.
3. While still slightly warm, brush each donut with melted butter and roll them in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon until coated.

Now enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts, perfect for any time of day!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Serving your Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts can enhance the experience and make them even more delightful. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these delicious treats.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: Pair your donuts with a hot cup of coffee for a classic breakfast combo.
• Hot Chocolate: A rich and creamy hot chocolate can complement the spices in the donuts beautifully.

Garnished with Cream

• Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra sweetness and texture.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting for a decadent twist.

As a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Treats: Serve alongside other pastries or cookies for a variety of flavors.
• Fruit Slices: Fresh fruit like apples or pears adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the donuts.

On Special Occasions

• Holiday Breakfast: Serve these donuts at holiday brunches for a festive touch.
• Birthday Treats: Use these donuts as colorful cake alternatives at birthday parties.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

To ensure your Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check that your baking powder and spices are fresh for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the donuts fluffy and light.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on them during baking; ovens vary, so check for doneness with a toothpick.
• Coat While Warm: For better sugar adherence, coat the donuts in cinnamon sugar while they are still warm from the oven.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their moisture and freshness.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like chocolate glaze or maple syrup for varied flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Pair your delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts with some delightful side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a healthy balance.
2. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and savory goodness to your breakfast spread.
3. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits can refresh the palate after sweet bites.
4. Oatmeal Bowl: A hearty oatmeal topped with nuts complements the soft texture of the donuts.
5. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding provides a nutritious contrast to the sweetness of donuts.
6. Savory Muffins: Mini savory muffins can provide an interesting flavor change alongside sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring ingredient measurements – Accurate measuring is crucial for perfect donuts. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure success.
• Skipping the baking powder – Baking powder is essential for the donuts to rise. Be sure it’s fresh; old baking powder can lead to dense donuts.
• Not letting the donuts cool – Allowing the donuts to cool before coating in sugar prevents clumping and ensures an even coating.
• Using expired ingredients – Check expiration dates on spices and dairy. Using fresh ingredients will enhance flavor and texture.
• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to tough donuts. Stir just until combined for a light, fluffy texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat one donut at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts that you might find helpful.

Can I make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking.

How do I make my Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts more flavorful?

You can add extra spices like nutmeg or allspice, or incorporate chocolate chips for added richness.

What is the best way to store leftover Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for longer storage as mentioned above.

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just make sure your homemade puree is thick and not too watery, which could affect the texture of your donuts.

Final Thoughts

These moist and fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack. With their warm spices and sweet topping, they offer versatility that allows you to customize with additional flavors or toppings. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy these delightful treats!