Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts Irresistible Recipe

Are you ready to indulge in a fall favorite? These Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts combine warm, spiced flavors with a sweet touch that makes every bite irresistible. In this post, I’ll share a simple recipe packed with easy steps and helpful tips. Whether you’re a baking newbie or a seasoned pro, these donuts will have your kitchen smelling amazing. Let’s get started and make some delicious memories together!

Ingredients

To make these delightful cinnamon sugar pumpkin donuts, gather the following ingredients:

– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar

– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

– 1/2 cup buttermilk

– 2 large eggs

– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1 tablespoon baking powder

– 1 teaspoon baking soda

– 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice

– 1 teaspoon cinnamon

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

– 2 tablespoons cinnamon (for coating)

These ingredients come together to create soft, moist donuts bursting with pumpkin flavor. The pumpkin puree gives a rich taste and a lovely color. The mix of sugars adds sweetness and depth. Buttermilk lends a nice tang, making these donuts extra fluffy. The spices work magic, offering that warm, cozy feeling we all love.

Make sure to measure your ingredients carefully. This helps keep the donuts light and airy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

– Grease your donut pan with cooking spray or butter.

Mixing the Wet Ingredients

– In a large bowl, combine:

– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar

– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

– 1/2 cup buttermilk

– 2 large eggs

– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– Whisk these ingredients together until smooth.

Mixing the Dry Ingredients

– In another bowl, combine:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 tablespoon baking powder

– 1 teaspoon baking soda

– 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice

– 1 teaspoon cinnamon

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– Mix well to ensure even distribution.

Combining Ingredients

– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ones.

– Mix until just combined. A few lumps are fine.

Baking the Donuts

– Use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner cut off.

– Fill each donut cavity about 2/3 full with batter.

– Bake for 12-15 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean.

Coating the Donuts

– While the donuts bake, mix:

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar

– 2 tablespoons cinnamon

– Once the donuts cool for 5 minutes, transfer them to a wire rack.

– While still warm, roll each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture until coated.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Mixing

To make great donuts, avoid over-mixing the batter. If you mix too much, your donuts may turn out tough. Aim for a light touch. When you mix, stop when you see a few lumps. That means your batter is just right!

For the best consistency, mix your wet ingredients first. This includes the pumpkin puree, sugars, buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla. Then, add the dry mix slowly. This keeps your donuts fluffy.

Ensuring the Perfect Bake

To check for doneness, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of a donut. If it comes out clean, your donuts are ready. If there’s batter on the toothpick, bake them a little longer.

Every oven is different. If your donuts seem undercooked, add a minute or two to the bake time. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.

Serving Suggestions

For the best flavor, serve your donuts warm right after baking. The cinnamon sugar coating tastes best when fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. This keeps them soft for up to three days.

Variations

Alternatives to Pumpkin Puree

If you want a change from pumpkin puree, try sweet potato or butternut squash. Both options give a nice flavor and texture. You can use them in the same amount as pumpkin puree in your recipe. Sweet potato adds a hint of sweetness, while butternut squash has a mild taste. Each will make your donuts unique and tasty.

Flavor Enhancements

You can easily boost the flavor of your donuts. Adding chocolate chips gives a rich taste that many love. Nuts, like walnuts or pecans, add crunch and depth. If you want to go the extra mile, try a glaze or toppings. A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk adds sweetness. Sprinkles can also make your donuts fun and colorful.

Gluten-Free Option

If you or someone you know is gluten-free, don’t worry! You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends. Look for a mix that has xanthan gum for better texture. This will help your donuts rise and stay fluffy. Just replace the flour in equal amounts, and you can enjoy these donuts too!

Storage Info

Short-term Storage

Store your donuts in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for about three days. If you leave them out, they may dry out. Make sure the container is sealed tightly. You can also use plastic wrap for extra protection.

Freezing Donuts

To freeze donuts, let them cool completely first. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, move them to a freezer bag. This helps avoid sticking. You can reheat them by placing them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will bring back their soft texture.

Best Practices for Preserving Freshness

To keep your donuts fresh, avoid stacking them. Store them in a cool, dry place. You can add a slice of bread to the container. This helps keep the donuts moist. Also, try to consume them within a few days for the best taste.

FAQs

Can I make these donuts vegan?

Yes, you can make these donuts vegan with a few swaps. Use a flax egg instead of eggs. To make a flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes to thicken. Instead of buttermilk, use almond milk with a splash of vinegar to create a vegan buttermilk. Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. These swaps keep the flavor while being plant-based.

How do I know when my donuts are done baking?

To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your donuts are ready. They should also look golden brown and spring back when you touch them lightly. If they are still wet or sticky, give them a few more minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you have options. Mix one cup of regular milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for five minutes to curdle. You can also use yogurt or sour cream mixed with a little water. These substitutes will work well in the recipe.

Can I bake these in a regular muffin pan?

Yes, you can bake these in a muffin pan instead of a donut pan. Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full. Bake for 15-18 minutes, as muffins may take a bit longer. They will be soft and fluffy. Just keep an eye on them, and use a toothpick to check for doneness. Enjoy your pumpkin muffins!

To make these delicious donuts, we used simple ingredients like pumpkin puree and spices. We walked through steps from mixing wet and dry ingredients to baking and coating. Remember, don’t over-mix to keep them fluffy. You can even try storing them or freezing for later. Experiment with flavors or alternatives for fun twists. Now, you have all the tools to enjoy fresh, tasty donuts, made your way. Happy bakin