Easy Pumpkin Donut Recipe

If there is one treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall while still being wonderfully easy to make, it has to be this Easy Pumpkin Donut Recipe. These donuts bring together the rich, comforting flavors of pumpkin and warm spices, all baked to light, tender perfection. Whether you’re hosting a cozy brunch, looking for a tasty snack, or craving a sweet pick-me-up, this recipe will quickly become your go-to. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a plate of irresistible pumpkin donuts in no time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Pumpkin Donut Recipe is all about combining a handful of common pantry staples that work beautifully together. Each ingredient plays a crucial role: pumpkin puree adds moisture and that unmistakable autumnal taste, the spice cake mix brings in a perfect blend of cinnamon and nutmeg, and the buttery cinnamon-sugar coating adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to every bite.

• Pumpkin puree: Use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best texture and true pumpkin flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Melted butter contributes rich flavor and helps create a tender crumb.
• Large egg: Acts as a binder to hold all the ingredients together seamlessly.
• Spice cake mix: The star dry ingredient with built-in warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves for effortless flavor.
• Granulated sugar: Combined with cinnamon, it creates that classic donut coating that’s both crunchy and sweet.
• Cinnamon: Essential for that warm, aromatic punch in the sugar topping.

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Donut Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for perfectly baking these donuts. Lightly grease your donut pan with a nonstick spray to make sure the donuts slide out effortlessly once baked.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, melted butter, and egg. Stir them together until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. This ensures that your batter starts off with a creamy base that will yield soft donuts.

Step 3: Add the Spice Cake Mix

Next up, add the spice cake mix to the wet ingredients. Stir gently but thoroughly—just until combined. Your batter will be thick and hearty, perfect for donut dough. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts tender.

Step 4: Pipe the Batter

Transfer your thick batter to a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off. This makes filling the donut cavities neat and simple. Fill each mold about three-quarters full so they have room to rise without overflowing.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake your pumpkin donuts for 8 to 12 minutes depending on your pan size; around 9 minutes for 3-inch donuts is just right. You’ll know they’re done when they spring back lightly to the touch. This step locks in moisture and creates that perfect bite.

Step 6: Cool Slightly Before Decorating

Allow the donuts to rest in the pan for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack. This prevents sogginess and keeps the donuts from sticking to the pan as they cool.

Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the donuts cool, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. This mixture will give the donuts that irresistible spiced crunch once coated.

Step 8: Dip and Coat for Extra Yum

Finally, dip each donut into melted butter, then toss it in your cinnamon sugar until fully coated. This extra step adds a luscious buttery layer and a sweet crisp finish that takes these donuts over the top.

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Donut Recipe

Garnishes

Your Easy Pumpkin Donut Recipe is lovely on its own, but for a special touch, consider sprinkling a bit of powdered sugar or finely chopped toasted pecans on top. These garnishes add aesthetic appeal and an extra layer of texture that your guests will adore.

Side Dishes

Serve these donuts alongside a warm cup of coffee, chai tea, or hot apple cider. Their comforting spices and moist texture pair beautifully with hot beverages, making each bite a cozy experience. For a heartier brunch, a side of fresh fruit or a light salad balances the sweetness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra festive presentation, stack donuts on a decorative cake stand or thread them onto skewers to create a donut “tower.” You can also glaze a few with a simple vanilla or maple glaze for varied flavors, delighting everyone at the table with a colorful display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After you enjoy these donuts fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them soft and flavorful. Refrigeration tends to dry them out, so keep them cozy on your countertop if you plan to eat them soon.

Freezing

Want to save some for later? These pumpkin donuts freeze wonderfully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to three months without losing their delightful texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your donuts in the microwave for about 15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 7 minutes. This refreshes their soft, tender texture and revitalizes the buttery cinnamon sugar coating.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

It’s best to use pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling because the filling contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor and consistency of your donuts.

Do I have to use a spice cake mix?

The spice cake mix is key for that signature blend of fall spices in this recipe, but if you want to customize, you can substitute with a plain cake mix and add your own ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Absolutely! Look for a gluten-free spice cake mix to keep the recipe intact. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

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

Generously grease your donut pan with nonstick spray or butter before piping in the batter. You can also lightly dust it with flour for extra insurance against sticking.

What does the cinnamon sugar coating add to the donuts?

The cinnamon sugar adds a crispy, sweet layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft, moist donut interior—giving you that classic donut experience that everyone loves.

Final Thoughts

You simply cannot go wrong with this Easy Pumpkin Donut Recipe. It combines the warmth of fall flavors with a quick, fuss-free method that anyone can master. Share them with loved ones or savor them yourself—either way, these donuts will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with cozy delight. Give it a try, and watch these seasonal gems disappear fast!

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