Pumpkin Donuts

These Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are a delightful treat for any occasion. Perfect for coffee time in Autumn, they offer a light and fluffy texture that is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging on a cozy day at home, these donuts are not only quick and easy to make but also feature a scrumptious glaze that adds a touch of sweetness. Enjoy the essence of fall with every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Option: These baked donuts contain less fat than traditional fried versions, making them a guilt-free snack.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these treats ready in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices like cinnamon creates a comforting flavor profile perfect for Fall.
• Perfect Portions: Ideal for portion control, each mini donut satisfies without overwhelming your sweet tooth.
• Versatile Treat: Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these donuts fit into various meal times seamlessly.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious pumpkin donuts, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help streamline the process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mini donut pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Piping bag (or resealable plastic bag)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Why These Tools Matter

• Mini donut pan: Ensures perfectly shaped donuts that cook evenly and have the right texture.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, creating a light batter for fluffy donuts.
• Piping bag: Allows for neat and precise filling of the donut pan, preventing mess during preparation.

Ingredients

For the Donuts

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup oat flour (to make oat flour, grind well old-fashioned oats in a food processor or blender until getting a fine flour texture)
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg (at room temperature)
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup oil
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin or pumpkin puree (it is the same as a mashed pumpkin. There are no spices or sugar added.)

For the Maple Glaze

• 1¼ cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon dark corn syrup (or Karo dark corn syrup)
• ½ tablespoon water
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease your mini donut pan with cooking spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
* All-purpose flour
* Oat flour
* Pumpkin pie spice
* Ground cinnamon
* Baking powder
* Baking soda
* Salt

Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together these wet ingredients:
* Egg
* Light brown sugar
* Oil
* Vanilla extract
* Canned pumpkin

Make sure everything is well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Whisk until you form a thick donut batter.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Transfer the batter into a large piping bag. Pipe it into the greased donut pan, filling each cavity about halfway full.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Bake in the preheated oven for about 6–7 minutes or until they spring back when touched or when a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool Down

Remove the donuts from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare Maple Glaze

While the donuts cool, prepare the glaze by whisking together:
* Powdered sugar
* Maple syrup
* Dark corn syrup
* Water
* Ground cinnamon

Once smooth, dip each cooled donut top into the glaze until well coated. Let them rest on the rack until fully set.

Enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Donuts!

How to Serve Pumpkin Donuts

Pumpkin donuts are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re having them for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack, these donuts pair perfectly with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your pumpkin donut experience.

With Coffee

• item Pair your pumpkin donuts with a hot cup of coffee. The rich flavors of the coffee complement the sweetness of the donuts beautifully.

As Breakfast Treats

• item Serve pumpkin donuts alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast. This combination offers both sweetness and nutrition.

With Whipped Cream

• item Top your pumpkin donuts with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert option. The lightness of the cream adds a nice contrast to the dense texture of the donuts.

Accompanied by Fruit

• item Fresh sliced apples or pears make an excellent accompaniment to pumpkin donuts. Their crisp texture and natural sweetness balance out the flavors perfectly.

Drizzled with Honey

• item A drizzle of honey over your pumpkin donuts can elevate their taste. The floral notes from the honey enhance the autumn spices in the donuts.

With Hot Chocolate

• item Enjoy your pumpkin donuts with a warm mug of hot chocolate for a cozy treat. This combo is great for chilly days when you want something comforting.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Donuts

To achieve perfectly baked pumpkin donuts, follow these simple tips that will enhance both their flavor and texture.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh canned pumpkin and high-quality spices to ensure maximum flavor in your donuts.
• Measure accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient measurements. Accurate measurements prevent overly dense or dry donuts.
• Don’t overmix: Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense donuts instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Use room temperature egg: A room temperature egg helps create a smoother batter and leads to better rising during baking.
• Cool before glazing: Allow your donuts to cool completely before dipping them in glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting away and ensures it sets nicely.
• Store properly: Keep leftover pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Donuts

Pumpkin donuts are versatile enough that they can be served alongside various side dishes. These pairings not only complement the flavors but also create a well-rounded meal or snack experience.

1. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing side that balances sweetness.
2. Cinnamon Applesauce: A bowl of warm cinnamon applesauce pairs excellently with pumpkin flavors.
3. Cheese Platter: Serve assorted cheeses like brie or goat cheese which add a savory touch to sweet donuts.
4. Granola Bars: Crunchy granola bars provide a satisfying crunch and additional fiber when served next to your donuts.
5. Fruit Salad: A mixed fruit salad brings brightness and freshness, contrasting beautifully with the richness of pumpkin.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: Creamy chia pudding topped with nuts makes for a healthy side that enhances texture and flavor diversity.
7. Nut Butter Dip: A small bowl of almond or peanut butter offers protein while enhancing flavor when dipped into.
8. Caramel Sauce: For those who enjoy sweeter treats, caramel sauce makes an irresistible dip option alongside your pumpkin donuts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pumpkin Donuts can be fun, but there are some common pitfalls that could affect your results. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the oven temperature: Baking at the incorrect temperature can result in donuts that are either too dry or undercooked. Always preheat your oven to the correct temperature before baking.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough donuts. Mix just until combined, and stop as soon as you don’t see any dry flour.
• Skipping the greasing step: Not greasing your donut pan properly can cause your donuts to stick. Use cooking spray or oil to ensure easy removal.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin the texture and flavor of your donuts. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts.
• Forgetting to let them cool: Allowing your donuts to cool completely before glazing is essential. If you glaze them too soon, the glaze may melt away.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store pumpkin donuts in an airtight container.
• item They will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Donuts

• item Place cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• item Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• item They can be stored for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Pumpkin Donuts

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the donuts on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one donut at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds. This method may make them slightly soft.
• Stovetop: Place a non-stick skillet over low heat, add the donut, and cover with a lid. Heat for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Pumpkin Donuts gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it has xanthan gum for proper texture.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree made from cooked pumpkin. Just ensure it’s well-drained and free from excess moisture.

What is the best way to store Pumpkin Donuts?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I customize my Pumpkin Donuts?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even spices like nutmeg for extra flavor.

Why are my Pumpkin Donuts dense?

Dense donuts may result from overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Measure carefully and mix just until combined.

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Donuts offer a delightful treat perfect for autumn gatherings or cozy coffee times. With their easy preparation and lower fat content compared to fried versions, they’re not only delicious but also healthier. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or spices!