Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Moist and fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. These baked donuts are quick to make, ready in just 20 minutes, and feature a warm blend of pumpkin and aromatic spices. Their irresistible cinnamon sugar topping makes them suitable for any occasion, from cozy fall mornings to festive gatherings. Enjoy the comforting flavors of pumpkin spice without the fuss of frying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, these donuts are perfect for busy mornings.
• Deliciously Flavored: The combination of pumpkin and cinnamon creates a cozy taste that everyone will love.
• Baked, Not Fried: A healthier option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a breakfast item, snack, or dessert—these donuts fit any time of day!
• Perfect for Fall: Embrace the seasonal flavors of pumpkin spice that warm your heart.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment helps streamline the process and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Donut pan: This specialized pan gives your donuts their classic shape while ensuring even baking.
• Mixing bowls: Having various sizes allows you to mix ingredients comfortably without spills.
• Whisk: A good whisk aerates the batter, making your donuts light and fluffy.

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Ingredients

To create these delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts, gather the following ingredients:

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 Topping

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

For Additional Flavoring (repeated)

• 1 cup + 1/4 cup 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 coconut oil, melted
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 3 tablespoons coconut oil, melted

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your donuts bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl:
* Combine the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin spice.
* In another bowl, mix together the pumpkin pie puree, melted butter, and milk until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients:
* Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep your donuts fluffy.

Step 4: Fill the Donut Pan

Using a piping bag or spoon:
* Fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full with batter.

Step 5: Bake

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

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping

While donuts cool:
* In a small bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon. Stir well.

Step 7: Coat with Topping

Once cooled slightly:
* Brush tops with melted butter then dip into cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair your donuts with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning or afternoon snack.

Ice Cream Sundae

• Top your donut with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzle with chocolate sauce for a delicious dessert twist.

Fresh Fruit Platter

• Serve alongside a colorful platter of fresh fruits like apples, pears, and berries for a refreshing balance.

Whipped Cream Dip

• Create a light whipped cream dip flavored with vanilla extract to complement the spices in the donuts.

Breakfast Sandwich

• Slice the donut in half and fill it with cream cheese or nut butter for a hearty breakfast option.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

To ensure you achieve the best texture and flavor, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh pumpkin puree and spices to enhance the donuts’ flavor profile.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping to prevent dense donuts.

• Do Not Overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can result in tough donuts.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperature for perfect results.

• Cool Before Coating: Let the donuts cool slightly before rolling them in cinnamon sugar for better adherence.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts can be enjoyed alongside various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the donuts.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a nutritious side that pairs well.
3. Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars provide a crunchy contrast and are easy to grab on the go.
4. Savory Muffins: Cheese or vegetable muffins can serve as a delightful savory counterpart.
5. Oatmeal Bowl: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts and honey offers hearty nutrition next to sweet donuts.
6. Chia Pudding: Light yet filling, chia pudding is rich in nutrients and complements the sweetness perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here’s how to dodge them:

• Ignoring Measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Using too much or too little can affect the texture and flavor of your donuts.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep your donuts light and fluffy. Overmixing can make them dense.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allow your donuts to cool slightly before coating them in cinnamon sugar. This helps the sugar stick better.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Preheat your oven before baking for even cooking. This ensures that your donuts rise properly.
• Using Old Baking Powder: Check the expiration date on your baking powder. Old baking powder may not provide enough lift, resulting in flat donuts.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

• Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a container.

Reheating Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one donut at a time for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts:

Can I use gluten-free flour for Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

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

How do I customize my Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even different spices like nutmeg or ginger for additional flavor variations.

Can I make these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts vegan?

Yes! Substitute butter with coconut oil and milk with almond milk as mentioned in the recipe.

What is the best way to store leftover donuts?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I bake these donuts without pumpkin spice?

Absolutely! You can replace pumpkin spice with cinnamon and nutmeg or any spice mix you prefer.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are not just delicious; they are also easy to make and customizable! Whether you enjoy them as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, they are sure to please everyone. Experiment with different spices and toppings to make this recipe your own!