If you are dreaming of a sweet treat that’s bursting with cozy autumn vibes and melts in your mouth, you have to try this recipe for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts. These donuts are moist, rich with warm spices, and topped with a perfectly spiced sugar coating that makes every bite irresistibly delightful. Whether you are new to baking or just looking for a fuss-free way to enjoy pumpkin’s seasonal charm, these donuts combine simple ingredients and straightforward steps to bring a fresh, homemade flavor that rivals any bakery.

Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts lies in their simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a special role in delivering the ideal texture, flavor, and that beautiful autumnal color that makes pumpkin treats so beloved.

All-purpose flour 210 g (1¾ cups): The base that gives structure and a tender crumb to the donuts.

Baking powder 1 tsp: Helps the donuts rise and become light and fluffy.
Baking soda ¼ tsp: Enhances browning and balances acidity.

Ground cinnamon 2 tsp: Adds warm, sweet spice that’s key to autumn flavors.
Ground nutmeg ½ tsp: Freshly ground if possible, for a deep, nutty aroma.

Ground ginger ½ tsp: Adds a subtle kick and complexity.
Ground allspice ¼ tsp: Rounds out the spice mix beautifully.
Ground cloves ¼ tsp: Provides an earthy depth to the flavor.

Salt ½ tsp: Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
Canned pumpkin puree 240 g (1 cup): The pumpkin star, bringing moisture, color, and that unmistakable aroma.
Salted butter, melted 57 g (½ stick/4 Tbsp): Adds richness and keeps donuts tender.

Vegetable oil 60 ml (¼ cup): Helps maintain moisture and softness.
Granulated sugar 100 g (½ cup): Sweetens and aids in browning.
Light brown sugar 100 g (½ cup): Infuses a subtle caramel flavor and chewy texture.

Large eggs, 2: Bind ingredients and contribute to the donut’s structure.
Whole milk 60 ml (¼ cup): Adds moisture and richness.
Vanilla extract 1 tsp: Enhances sweetness and adds a lovely aromatic finish.

Unsalted butter, melted 56 g (½ stick/4 Tbsp): For brushing the warm donuts before coating.
Vanilla extract ¼ tsp: Mixed with melted butter for the topping glaze.
Granulated sugar 100 g (½ cup): Combined with spices to coat the donuts.

Ground cinnamon 2 tsp: Featured again in the topping for an extra punch.
Ground nutmeg ½ tsp: Freshly ground preferred, for a fragrant finish.
Ground ginger ½ tsp: Adds warmth to the sugar coating.

How to Make Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it heats up, grease two or three 6-count donut pans thoroughly. Greasing the pans well is crucial because these donuts are so moist they can stick easily. This step ensures your donuts will come out clean and beautiful.

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, cloves, and salt. Taking the time to combine these spices evenly will ensure every bite is perfectly balanced with those charming pumpkin-spice flavors.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, vigorously whisk together the pumpkin puree, melted butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. This natural whisking action helps incorporate air for a lighter texture, and you’ll see the batter start to shine with a lovely orange hue.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, whisking gently until just combined and thickened slightly. The batter should be thick but pourable. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts tender and cakey, not tough.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pans

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, fill each donut cavity approximately three-quarters full. A #24 cookie scoop (about 3 tablespoons) works well, but some pans might need up to ¼ cup. Filling evenly helps the donuts rise uniformly without spilling over the edges.

Step 6: Tap and Smooth

Tap the pans on your countertop lined with a towel about 10 times to settle the batter and release air bubbles. This little trick creates an even surface so your donuts bake up with smooth tops and pretty edges.

Step 7: Bake Until Perfect

Pop the pans into your oven and bake for 10 to 14 minutes. The donuts will puff up and turn a golden amber, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. Timing slightly varies by oven, so watch closely after 10 minutes.

Step 8: Cool Before Decorating

Allow the donuts to cool in the pans for 5 minutes so they set but remain warm. Then gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely without getting soggy. This short rest helps maintain that tender crumb.

Step 9: Prepare the Vanilla Butter Glaze

In a small bowl, melt the unsalted butter and stir in the ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract. This butter glaze will add both moisture and a flavorful base for the cinnamon-spiced sugar coating.

Step 10: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In another bowl, combine granulated sugar with the cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This fragrant mixture is what transforms the donuts into a cozy, spiced masterpiece with a delightful crunch on the outside.

Step 11: Glaze and Coat the Donuts

While the donuts are still warm, either brush them lightly with the vanilla-butter mixture or dip them directly in it. Immediately roll each donut in the spiced sugar mixture until fully coated, and recoat if you want an extra thick cinnamon coating. This step is where the magic happens—sweet, spicy, buttery goodness all wrapped into one bite.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy

Your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are now ready to enjoy! They are best served warm or at room temperature, and trust me, they reheat beautifully, making them just as delicious the next day.

How to Serve Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Garnishes

Consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of maple glaze for an elegant touch. Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts also add great texture and a nutty contrast to the soft donuts.

Side Dishes

These donuts are delightful with a hot cup of coffee, chai latte, or spiced apple cider—great for breakfast or afternoon snacking. A side of creamy whipped cream or pumpkin spice-flavored cream cheese dip will elevate your snack into a full-on treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts on a rustic wooden plank or vibrant fall-themed plate to enhance their seasonal charm. You could even stack them in a tower shape for gatherings or sprinkle edible gold dust for a festive twist. Sprigs of fresh rosemary or cinnamon sticks on the side add an aromatic and visual pop.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keeping them sealed preserves their soft crumb and that luscious spiced sugar coating.

Freezing

For longer storage, place donuts in a single layer on a baking tray to freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen donuts keep up to 3 months and thaw quickly when needed.

Reheating

To reheat, microwave donuts for about 15 seconds or until warm, or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked softness and revives the butter-spice coating’s aroma beautifully.

FAQs

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Absolutely, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be sure your blend contains xanthan gum for structure, or add it separately to maintain the donut’s tender texture.

What can I use instead of canned pumpkin puree?

If you don’t have canned pumpkin on hand, you can use homemade pumpkin puree or even pureed sweet potatoes. Both have similar moisture content and flavors that complement the spice mix beautifully.

Are these donuts vegan-friendly?

This recipe uses eggs, butter, and milk, so it’s not vegan as is. However, you can experiment with plant-based milk, vegan butter, and flax eggs as a substitute, but it may slightly change texture and rise.

How do I prevent the donuts from sticking to the pans?

Make sure to generously grease your donut pans with butter or a non-stick spray before filling. You can also lightly dust with flour for extra insurance. Proper greasing ensures smooth release and lovely donut edges.

Can I add frosting instead of the cinnamon sugar coating?

Definitely! These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are versatile and hold up well to various toppings. Cream cheese frosting or a simple vanilla glaze would pair excellently, though the cinnamon sugar coating complements the pumpkin spice flavors most traditionally.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about homemade donuts, especially when they carry the vibrant flavors of pumpkin and warming spices. These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for cozy mornings, festive gatherings, or anytime you want a sweet yet wholesome treat. I hope you’ll enjoy making and sharing these as much as I do—they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brightens any day!