Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Moist and fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts are baked, not fried, and ready in just 20 minutes! Perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack, these donuts boast a rich pumpkin flavor combined with warm spices. Whether you’re celebrating fall or simply craving something sweet, these treats are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings.
• Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, these donuts offer a lighter take on your favorite treat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cinnamon creates a warm, inviting taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert – they fit any occasion perfectly.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure you enjoy baking!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin pan: Essential for shaping your donuts; it gives them their classic form.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining all ingredients evenly; having multiple sizes helps manage different ingredient groups.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending dry ingredients and ensuring your mixture is smooth without lumps.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts, you’ll need 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

Additional Ingredients (if needed)

• 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

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 Your Muffin Pan

Grease your muffin pan lightly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the flour, light brown sugar, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin spice.
2. Whisk together until well mixed.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Mix together the pumpkin pie puree, melted butter, and milk until smooth.
2. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.

Step 5: Blend Together

Gently fold the mixture until just combined. Do not overmix; some lumps are okay!

Step 6: Fill Muffin Pan

Spoon the batter into each muffin cup about two-thirds full.

Step 7: Bake Donuts

Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 12 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the donuts bake:
In a small bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon for coating.

Step 9: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

Once donuts are done:
1. Allow them to cool slightly before removing from the pan.
2. Dip each donut into melted butter then roll in cinnamon sugar mixture until coated evenly.

Now enjoy your delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts! Perfectly sweet with a hint of spice – they won’t last long!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pair these donuts with a hot cup of coffee for a perfect morning treat.
• Tea: A warm cup of chai or herbal tea complements the spices in the donuts beautifully.

As a Breakfast Delight

• Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside slices of fresh apples or pears for a balanced breakfast.
• Yogurt: Add a side of yogurt topped with granola and honey for extra texture and flavor.

For a Sweet Snack

• Ice Cream: Enjoy these donuts with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent snack.
• Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter on each donut for added protein and richness.

At Parties or Gatherings

• Dessert Platter: Arrange your donuts on a platter with other treats like cookies and brownies for variety.
• Dipping Sauce: Offer them with chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping, making them even more irresistible.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

To achieve the best Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and spices are fresh for optimal rise and flavor.
• Measure Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons to get the right amount of flour, sugar, and liquids.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the donuts light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to dense donuts.
• Cool Before Coating: Allow the donuts to cool slightly before coating in cinnamon sugar; this helps the sugar adhere better.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding chopped nuts or drizzling chocolate over the top for extra flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Adding complementary side dishes can elevate your pumpkin donut experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the donuts.
2. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with cinnamon enhances the fall flavors present in the donuts.
3. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or cream cheese paired with crackers create a savory contrast.
4. Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries to create a delightful parfait that pairs well with coffee.
5. Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl topped with seeds and nuts offers a nutritious side option that pairs nicely.
6. Pancakes: Serve mini pancakes topped with maple syrup alongside the donuts for a hearty breakfast spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts can be simple, but avoiding mistakes ensures they turn out perfectly.

• Incorrect measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Use measuring cups and spoons to avoid using too much or too little of an ingredient.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts instead of fluffy ones.
• Skipping the preheating step: Always preheat your oven before baking. This helps in achieving a consistent bake and proper rise.
• Not letting the donuts cool properly: Allow donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
• Using old spices: Fresh spices are key for flavor. Check the expiration date and replace any that are old or stale.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture build-up.

Freezing Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place donuts on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual donuts on high for about 10-15 seconds. Watch closely to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are baked donuts that combine pumpkin puree with warm cinnamon spice, coated in cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness.

Can I use other types of milk in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute almond milk, coconut milk, or any non-dairy milk for the regular milk without affecting the taste significantly.

How long does it take to make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

From start to finish, you can have these delicious donuts ready in just about 25 minutes!

Can I customize the spices in Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

Absolutely! You can add nutmeg, ginger, or cloves if you prefer different spice profiles.

Are there gluten-free options for Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Adjust as needed based on the blend’s instructions.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are not only moist and fluffy but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them by adding nuts or swapping spices based on your preferences. Give this delightful recipe a try; your family will appreciate these tasty treats at breakfast or as an afternoon snack!