Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to brighten your morning or sweeten up your afternoon, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are just the ticket! They are moist, fluffy, and bursting with that comforting fall flavor. The best part? You can whip them up in just 20 minutes! Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply treating yourself on a busy weeknight, these donuts are sure to become a cherished favorite.

There’s something magical about the combination of pumpkin and cinnamon that feels like a warm hug. This recipe is not only simple but also a wonderful way to celebrate the season. Trust me, once you take that first bite of these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can satisfy your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the soft texture and warm spices of these donuts. They make for great breakfast treats or after-school snacks!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the batter in advance and bake them fresh when the craving hits.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin spice and cinnamon sugar creates an irresistible taste that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create your delicious donuts right at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Donuts

• 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
• 1/4 cup pumpkin pie puree
• 2 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk (any type will do)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon

Variations

This Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Try Different Spices: Swap out pumpkin spice for nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile.
• Add Chocolate Chips: Toss in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute almond milk and coconut oil throughout for a completely plant-based treat.
• Glaze Instead of Sugar: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk for a different twist.

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important because it ensures that your donuts bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy.

Step 2: Prepare Your Donut Batter

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin spice. In another bowl, combine the pumpkin pie puree, melted butter, and milk. Pour this wet mixture into your dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this will keep your donuts light and airy.

Step 3: Fill the Donut Pan

Grease your donut pan lightly with cooking spray or oil. Using a piping bag or spoon, fill each donut cavity about three-quarters full with batter. This helps them rise beautifully without overflowing.

Step 4: Bake Your Donuts

Place the filled donut pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they spring back lightly when touched. Let them cool slightly before removing them from the pan.

Step 5: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

While your donuts are cooling, melt the remaining butter in one bowl and mix together sugar and cinnamon in another. Once cooled slightly but still warm, dip each donut in melted butter then coat generously in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

And there you have it! Enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts fresh out of the oven or save some for later—they won’t last long!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Making these delightful donuts is a breeze, especially with a few helpful tips that will ensure your Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree – Freshly made pumpkin puree provides a richer flavor and better texture than canned. It can elevate your donuts to the next level!

• Don’t overmix the batter – Mixing just until combined helps keep the donuts light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense, heavy donuts that aren’t as enjoyable.

• Preheat your oven – Ensuring your oven is hot before baking gives your donuts the perfect rise and makes them fluffy. Aim for 350°F (175°C) while preparing your batter.

• Cool slightly before coating – Allowing the donuts to cool for just a few minutes before rolling them in cinnamon sugar helps the sugar stick better, giving you that irresistible sweet exterior.

• Experiment with spices – Feel free to add extra spices like nutmeg or ginger to personalize the flavor of your donuts. This can create a unique twist and enhance the fall vibe!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

These tasty little treats don’t just taste fantastic; they also present beautifully. Here are some fun ideas on how to serve them up!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts – Sprinkle some finely chopped walnuts or pecans over the top for an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.
• Whipped coconut cream – A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a creamy contrast to the spiced donuts, making each bite even more indulgent.
• Drizzle of maple syrup – A light drizzle of pure maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness and brings out the earthy flavors in the pumpkin.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a vibrant, healthy contrast to the sweetness of the donuts. Think apples, pears, and pomegranate seeds for fall!

• Hot apple cider – Nothing pairs better with pumpkin-flavored treats than warm apple cider spiced with cinnamon and cloves. It’s cozy and perfect for chilly days.

• Yogurt parfaits – Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a wholesome side dish that balances out the richness of the donuts while adding a creamy texture.

• Savory breakfast hash – A hearty hash made with sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and onions creates a savory counterpart that complements the sweetness of your Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts beautifully.

Enjoy these delectable treats any time of day! Whether it’s breakfast or an afternoon snack, they’re sure to bring smiles all around.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve their deliciousness:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the donuts to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the donuts cool completely.
• Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen donuts, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until just heated through.
• For a crispy outer layer, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might pop up while making your delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts.

Can I use canned pumpkin instead of pumpkin pie puree in this recipe?

Yes! You can use canned pumpkin puree as a substitute. Just ensure it’s pure pumpkin without added spices or sugar.

How do I make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts gluten-free?

To make these donuts gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture will still be delightful!

What makes these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts so special?

These donuts are baked instead of fried, making them lighter and fluffier while still delivering that comforting fall flavor with cinnamon sugar on top!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in crafting these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts! They’re not just a treat but also a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether it’s breakfast or an afternoon snack, they’re sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your creations with family and friends!