If you’re craving something that combines the cozy warmth of autumn spices with the soft, fluffy texture of a classic treat, this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts Recipe is just what you need. These donuts boast a perfect balance of cinnamon and nutmeg, enriched by vibrant pumpkin puree, making them moist and bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying breakfast or an afternoon snack, these donuts bring a comforting, nostalgic touch that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating donut perfection. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s lending moisture, spice, or the right structural balance for that tender crumb.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation that provides structure and a tender crumb for the donuts.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the donuts rise and become fluffy without heaviness.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to give the perfect lightness and a touch of tang.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: The star spice that infuses every bite with warm, familiar notes.
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg: Adds a subtle depth and complements the cinnamon effortlessly.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness that blends smoothly into the batter.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings a rich, caramel-like flavor and extra moisture.
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree: The luscious pumpkin adds moisture, color, and that pumpkin pie allure.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together while enriching the texture.
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the donuts tender and moist without overpowering flavors.
- 1/4 cup sugar (for coating): Used with cinnamon to create that irresistible crunchy-and-sweet coating.
- 1 tbsp cinnamon (for coating): Sprinkled with sugar to give the donuts a dazzling, spicy finish.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 350°F, ensuring it’s fully preheated so your donuts bake evenly. Grease your donut pan very well; this step ensures your donuts pop out easily with clean edges and that perfect round shape.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. This mix blends the spices throughout your donuts and evenly distributes the leavening agents for that just-right lift.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat together your pumpkin puree, eggs, and vegetable oil until you have a smooth, uniform mixture. This step infuses moist richness and that lovely pumpkin flavor that’s at the heart of these donuts.
Step 4: Combine and Fill
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, being careful not to overmix. Aim for a tender batter that’s just combined to keep your donuts light and fluffy. Spoon or pipe the batter into your greased donut pan, filling each mold about 3/4 of the way full to leave room for expansion during baking.
Step 5: Bake and Coat
Bake the donuts in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, until they’ve risen nicely and spring back lightly when touched. Once out of the oven, let them cool just enough to handle, then quickly toss them in a bowl filled with cinnamon sugar. The warm donuts soak up the coating, creating a perfectly sweet and spiced crust that’s simply irresistible.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra cinnamon sugar over your donuts for an added burst of spice and sparkle. A drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar can also elevate the presentation and flavor. Fresh whipped cream or a dollop of cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully for an indulgent treat.
Side Dishes
These pumpkin donuts are delightful alongside a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even apple cider. For a light meal, serve with fresh fruit or yogurt, which balances the sweet richness while keeping your brunch or snack colorful and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these donuts stacked gingerbread-style with a skewer, dipped partly in melted white or dark chocolate, or nestled in a decorative box tied with twine for gifting. Adding edible flowers or autumn leaves to your platter enhances the cozy, seasonal vibe that these donuts embody perfectly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain softness and flavor. Avoid the fridge as it can dry them out, but if your kitchen is warm, room temp storage is best.
Freezing
You can freeze these donuts by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature to enjoy their freshness later on.
Reheating
Rewarm your donuts gently in a microwave for about 10 seconds or in a toaster oven for a few minutes to bring back that just-baked warmth. Recoating with fresh cinnamon sugar after reheating gives that satisfying crunch every time.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts Recipe and makes it super convenient without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Are these donuts baked or fried?
These delicious donuts are baked, which makes them a healthier option while still delighting you with tender crumb and wonderful spice.
Can I substitute oil with butter?
You can try melted butter instead of vegetable oil, but note it will change the texture slightly, potentially making them a bit denser. Vegetable oil keeps the donuts especially moist and light.
How do I prevent donuts from sticking to the pan?
Generously greasing your donut pan or using a non-stick spray is key. You can also lightly dust with flour after greasing for extra insurance that your donuts pop right out.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts Recipe doubles very well. Just be sure to adjust your baking time and use multiple pans or bake in batches for even results.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts Recipe is such a joyous way to welcome the flavors of fall into your kitchen, but honestly, these treats are too good to save just for one season. Each bite is a warm hug, full of cinnamon spice and that rich pumpkin essence that simply can’t be beat. Give it a try and watch how quickly these donuts become your new go-to, perfect for sharing with family and friends or savoring quietly with your favorite hot drink.
Print
Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4.4 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts are a delightful fall treat, combining moist pumpkin-flavored cake with a sweet and spicy cinnamon sugar coating. Baked to perfection, they offer a tender crumb with warm spices, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Coating
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly grease a donut pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the donuts tender.
- Fill and Bake: Spoon the batter into the prepared donut molds, filling each about three-quarters full. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the donuts comes out clean.
- Cool and Coat: Allow the donuts to cool slightly until warm but manageable. Toss them in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon to coat them evenly, adding that perfect sweet and spicy finish.
Notes
- Ensure not to overmix the batter to maintain a light and fluffy texture in the donuts.
- You can substitute pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree if desired.
- Donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- For a dairy-free variation, confirm that the baking pan coating and sugar are suitable or substitute as needed.
