Oven Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe
Pumpkin season brings with it some of the most comforting and flavourful treats, and baked pumpkin donuts are at the top of the list. Soft, spiced, and perfectly sweet, these donuts are a wonderful way to enjoy the cozy flavours of fall without the heaviness of frying. They come out of the oven golden, tender, and ready to be dusted with cinnamon sugar or topped with a glaze for extra indulgence.
What makes them even better is how simple they are to prepare. With pantry friendly ingredients and a quick bake time, you can have warm pumpkin donuts on the table in less than half an hour. They are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, and their rich pumpkin flavour combined with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg makes them a seasonal favourite you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You Need This Recipe
This recipe gives you all the flavor of classic pumpkin donuts without the mess of frying. They are lighter, healthier, and incredibly easy to whip up at home. Whether you’re planning a fall brunch, holiday gathering, or just want a cozy weekend treat, these baked pumpkin donuts hit the mark with their moist texture, rich flavour, and irresistible aroma.
Ingredients
These ingredients come together to create donuts that are both fluffy and flavorful. Below is a detailed ingredient table with approximate calorie counts:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | 720 |
| Pumpkin puree | 1 cup | 80 |
| Baking powder | 2 tsp | 5 |
| Baking soda | 1/2 tsp | 0 |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 tsp | 12 |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 tsp | 3 |
| Ground ginger | 1/4 tsp | 2 |
| Ground cloves | 1/8 tsp | 1 |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | 0 |
| Brown sugar | 3/4 cup | 300 |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup | 100 |
| Vegetable oil | 1/2 cup | 480 |
| Large eggs | 2 | 140 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | 12 |
| Milk | 1/4 cup | 30 |
| Cinnamon sugar (for coating) | 1/4 cup | 100 |
How to Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a donut pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, both sugars, oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined avoid overmixing for the best texture. Transfer the batter into a piping bag or a zip top bag with the corner cut off to easily fill each donut mold about two thirds full. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the donuts to cool slightly before brushing with melted butter and rolling in cinnamon sugar, or drizzle with glaze if you prefer.
Pro Tips
For the most flavourful donuts, use pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which already contains added sugar and spices. Always avoid overmixing the batter, as it can make the donuts dense rather than soft and airy. To make filling the donut pan easier and neater, use a piping bag it ensures evenly shaped donuts. If you want to elevate the flavour, try adding a dash of pumpkin spice mix or even a pinch of cardamom for extra warmth. For a bakery style touch, dip the tops in a simple glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
These pumpkin donuts are a match made in heaven with a hot cup of coffee, spiced chai tea, or a warm glass of apple cider. They taste delicious rolled in cinnamon sugar, but you can also top them with a maple glaze or cream cheese icing for a richer finish. For an indulgent dessert option, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a warm caramel sauce.
Conclusion
Baked pumpkin donuts are the ultimate fall treat easy to make, full of flavour, and perfect for sharing. With their moist texture, warm spices, and cozy pumpkin taste, they bring a touch of seasonal magic to your kitchen. Whether you enjoy them plain, sugared, or glazed, these donuts are sure to become a go to favourite during pumpkin season.
