Pumpkin Donuts

These Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are a delightful treat that captures the essence of Autumn. Perfect for coffee time or as a snack, these baked donuts are easy to make and offer a healthier alternative to fried options. With their warm spices and sweet glaze, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These donuts come together in just 15 minutes, making them a great option for busy mornings or spontaneous gatherings.
• Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried, these donuts have less fat and fewer calories, allowing you to indulge without guilt.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a delicious flavor that complements coffee, tea, or even a cozy evening snack.
• Perfect for Portion Control: Mini donuts mean you can enjoy just one (or two!) without overindulging.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Get the whole family involved in making these fun treats—perfect for kids who love to help in the kitchen!

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Pumpkin Donuts, you’ll need some essential tools that will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mini donut pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Piping bag or plastic zip-top bag
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mini donut pan: This tool ensures your donuts keep their shape while baking, resulting in perfectly formed treats.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients easily and keeping your workspace organized.
• Piping bag: Helps you fill each donut cavity neatly without mess, ensuring uniformity in size and shape.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful Pumpkin Donuts:

For the Donuts

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup oat flour (to make oat flour, grind well old-fashioned oats in a food processor or blender until getting a fine flour texture)
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg (at room temperature)
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup oil
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin or pumpkin puree (it is the same as mashed pumpkin; there are no spices or sugar added)

For the Maple Glaze

• 1¼ cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon dark corn syrup (or Karo dark corn syrup)
• ½ tablespoon water
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease your mini donut pan with cooking spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Mix together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, oat flour, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the wet ingredients including the egg, light brown sugar, oil, vanilla extract, and canned pumpkin until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients:
– Whisk everything together until you form a thick donut batter.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Transfer your batter into a piping bag:
– Pipe into the greased donut pan until each cavity is about halfway full.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Bake for about 6-7 minutes:
– The donuts should spring back when touched or have a toothpick come out clean when inserted.

Step 7: Cool Down

Once baked:
– Transfer the donuts to a wire rack and let them cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare the Maple Glaze

While cooling:
– In a small bowl, whisk together all glaze ingredients until smooth.
– Place your wire rack with donuts over a lined baking sheet. Dip each donut top into the glaze to coat thoroughly. Allow them to rest on the rack until set.

Enjoy these scrumptious Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze as they bring warmth and sweetness to any occasion!

How to Serve Pumpkin Donuts

Pumpkin donuts are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them during your morning coffee, these suggestions will elevate your experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pairing pumpkin donuts with a warm cup of coffee enhances the cozy flavors of autumn.
• Tea: A spiced chai or herbal tea complements the sweetness of the donuts beautifully.
• Hot Chocolate: For a sweeter option, serve your pumpkin donuts with rich hot chocolate for a comforting treat.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mini Cupcakes: Add mini cupcakes to your dessert table for variety and color.
• Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the donuts.
• Cheese Cubes: Include some mild cheese cubes for a savory contrast.

Garnished with Toppings

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top of each donut makes for an indulgent treat.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted dark chocolate over the glaze adds an extra layer of richness.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Donuts

To ensure your pumpkin donuts turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh baking powder and spices for the best flavor and rise.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the texture light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to dense donuts.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures, as ovens can vary widely.
• Pipe Evenly: When filling the donut pan, pipe evenly to create uniform shapes that bake consistently.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Allowing the donuts to cool will help the glaze adhere better without melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Donuts

While pumpkin donuts are delicious on their own, pairing them with certain side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Cinnamon Applesauce: The warm flavors of cinnamon applesauce complement the spices in pumpkin donuts wonderfully.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a refreshing contrast to sweet donuts.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with pumpkin flavors and adds heartiness to your snack time.
4. Savory Scones: Offer savory scones alongside to balance out the sweetness with salty flavors.
5. Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars make for a healthy side option packed with nuts and oats.
6. Herbed Cheese Spread: Serve with herbed cheese spread on crackers for a delightful savory touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pumpkin Donuts is fun, but there are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Precision is key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure the right amounts.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing donuts to cool completely before glazing prevents the glaze from melting off. Patience pays off!
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make your donuts tough. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Ovens can vary. Always use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s accurate, so your donuts bake perfectly.
• Using stale ingredients: Fresh ingredients lead to better flavor and texture. Always check expiration dates on baking powder and spices.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin donuts in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Donuts

• Place cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Donuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the donuts for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one donut at a time for about 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate.
• Stovetop: Place a pan over low heat and warm the donut for about 1-2 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Donuts.

Can I use whole wheat flour for Pumpkin Donuts?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but adjust the liquid slightly as it absorbs more moisture than all-purpose flour.

How do I make these Pumpkin Donuts gluten-free?

To make gluten-free pumpkin donuts, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

What can I substitute for maple syrup in the glaze?

You can use agave syrup or honey as an alternative sweetener in the glaze if desired.

Can I add chocolate chips to my Pumpkin Donuts?

Absolutely! Fold in some mini chocolate chips into the batter before piping into the donut pan for a delightful twist.

How do I store leftover Pumpkin Donuts?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are delicious and versatile treats perfect for any Autumn gathering. You can customize them with nuts or chocolate chips, making them even more delightful. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy and tasty they are!