If you’re on the lookout for a cozy, flavor-packed treat that beautifully combines fall’s best flavors with a fresh twist, this Gluten Free Pumpkin Donuts with Orange Glaze Recipe is going to steal your heart. These donuts are perfectly tender and moist, with warm spices that dance alongside the bright, zesty orange glaze. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a simple weekend indulgence, this recipe effortlessly brings comforting pumpkin goodness and a citrus kick into one unforgettable bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward, wholesome ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering that tender texture, rich pumpkin flavor, and tangy glaze that’ll have you coming back for more. Using gluten free flour means everyone at the table can enjoy these donuts without worry.
- 2 cups gluten free 1:1 baking flour: The foundation for our donuts, providing structure without gluten.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Gives the donuts a beautiful rise and lightness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances the sweetness and spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a warm, slightly sweet spice boost.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Brings a cozy, nutty aroma.
- 1 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Classic fall flavor that always pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
- 2/3 cup pumpkin puree: The star ingredient, giving moisture, color, and that unmistakable pumpkin taste.
- 2/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a touch of molasses for depth.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together while lending a rich texture.
- 1/2 cup plain, unsweetened almond milk: Keeps the batter smooth and dairy-free friendly.
- 4 tablespoons melted butter, cooled: Adds richness and tenderness; non-dairy options work beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon orange juice: Introduces a hint of citrus brightness into the batter.
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest: Boosts the orange flavor and aroma for that perfect glaze partner.
- 2 cups confectioners sugar, sifted: Essential for a silky-smooth glaze finish.
- 3 tablespoons plain, unsweetened almond milk: Helps adjust glaze consistency without overpowering flavor.
- 1 tablespoon orange juice: Gives the glaze a fresh, zesty punch.
- 1 teaspoon orange zest: Adds aroma and texture to the glaze, making it irresistibly fragrant.
How to Make Gluten Free Pumpkin Donuts with Orange Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Combine Dry Ingredients
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a donut pan to prevent sticking. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together your gluten free flour, baking powder, salt, and those warm fall spices—cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon. This dry mix sets the flavor base and ensures your donuts have the perfect light rise.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, get ready to bring on the pumpkin magic by beating together the pumpkin puree, light brown sugar, and eggs. Once combined, add in almond milk, cooled melted butter, orange juice, and orange zest. Mix everything gently until smooth, which keeps the batter tender and bursting with rich flavor.
Step 3: Fill the Donut Pan
You can spoon the batter directly into your prepared donut pan, or if you want that extra touch of precision, pop the batter into a pastry bag fitted with a large tip and pipe it carefully. Make sure to fill each cavity without overflowing – this helps keep the donuts perfectly shaped and even in baking.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop your filled donut pan into the oven and bake for about 12 minutes, testing doneness with a toothpick inserted into a donut—it should come out clean. Once baked, carefully remove the donuts from the pan and let them cool on a wire rack. Repeat the process with the remaining batter so you wind up with 12 mouthwatering donuts ready for glazing.
Step 5: Prepare and Apply the Orange Glaze
While your donuts cool, it’s time for the best part: the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together sifted confectioners sugar, almond milk, orange juice, and orange zest until you have a smooth, lump-free glaze. Spoon it generously over each donut while still slightly warm, letting it set just enough to create the perfect glossy, citrus-packed finish.
How to Serve Gluten Free Pumpkin Donuts with Orange Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these donuts even further, a light sprinkle of finely chopped toasted nuts or a few small orange zest curls can add beautiful texture and visual appeal. You could also dust them with a little cinnamon sugar for extra warmth and sweetness. These little touches make serving feel special without overpowering the delicate glaze.
Side Dishes
Pair these donuts with a steaming cup of spiced chai tea or bright coffee to balance their sweetness with a cozy bitterness. A dollop of whipped coconut cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can make this an indulgent brunch or dessert treat, adding richness and creaminess to every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, line a pretty platter with parchment paper and arrange your donuts in a circle, garnished with fresh orange slices and sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary. You could even skewer mini donuts and orange wedges on sticks for a fun and shareable presentation that invites everyone to dig in with a smile.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once glazed, store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep their moisture and flavor intact. If your home tends to be warm, a cool spot or lightly refrigerated container will help prevent glaze melting without drying out the donut itself.
Freezing
If you want to save these beauties for longer, freeze unglazed donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw completely, then add the orange glaze fresh to keep that bright citrus flavor vibrant and fresh.
Reheating
To enjoy the donuts warm, gently reheat them in a toaster oven or regular oven at low heat to avoid drying. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve texture, but if short on time, a quick 10-second zap can do the trick before glazing again for that melt-in-your-mouth effect.
FAQs
Can I use another type of milk instead of almond milk?
Absolutely! Oat milk, soy milk, or any plant-based milk works beautifully in this recipe, just use unsweetened varieties to keep the flavor balanced.
What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?
Sweet potato puree or butternut squash puree are great substitutes that offer a similar texture and mild sweetness, keeping your donuts moist and flavorful.
Can I make these donuts vegan?
Yes! Simply swap the eggs for flax eggs or another vegan egg replacement, and use a dairy-free butter or oil. The glaze already uses non-dairy milk, so you’re mostly set.
Is this recipe suitable for those who are gluten intolerant?
Definitely. Using a quality gluten free 1:1 baking flour blend ensures these donuts are safe for gluten intolerant diets without sacrificing texture or taste.
How thick should I make the orange glaze?
The glaze should be pourable but thick enough to coat the back of a spoon—thin enough to drizzle easily but thick enough to set and create that irresistible shiny finish.
Final Thoughts
This Gluten Free Pumpkin Donuts with Orange Glaze Recipe is such a joy to make and share, combining comfort, festive flavor, and that perfect sweet-tart finish to brighten any day. Whether you’re new to gluten free baking or a seasoned pro, these donuts are a wonderful way to celebrate pumpkin season with a fresh twist. Grab your ingredients, bake them up, and watch how these donuts quickly become your next favorite treat!
PrintGluten Free Pumpkin Donuts with Orange Glaze Recipe
Delight in these Gluten Free Pumpkin Donuts topped with a zesty Orange Glaze, perfectly spiced with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. These moist, fluffy donuts are an ideal treat for fall, baked to perfection and suitable for those avoiding gluten.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 donuts
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten free 1:1 baking flour (e.g., Bob’s Red Mill)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
- 2/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup plain, unsweetened almond milk
- 4 tablespoons melted butter, cooled (non-dairy Earth Balance used)
- 1 teaspoon orange juice
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
Orange Glaze
- 2 cups confectioners sugar, sifted
- 3 tablespoons plain, unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a doughnut pan thoroughly and set it aside while you prepare the batter. In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten free flour, baking powder, salt, ground cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together the pumpkin puree, light brown sugar, and eggs until smooth and fully incorporated. Add the almond milk, cooled melted butter, orange juice, and orange zest, stirring well to blend all wet elements thoroughly.
- Combine Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined and no large lumps remain. The batter should be thick yet pipeable.
- Fill the Doughnut Pan: Using either a spoon or a pastry bag fitted with a large tip, carefully fill the prepared doughnut pan cavities with batter. Do not overfill to prevent overflowing during baking.
- Bake the Donuts: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the donuts for about 12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the donuts to cool in the pan briefly before transferring them to a cooling rack.
- Repeat Baking: Repeat the filling and baking process with any remaining batter to make approximately 12 donuts total.
- Prepare the Orange Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together all glaze ingredients – confectioners sugar, almond milk, orange juice, and orange zest – until smooth and free of lumps.
- Glaze the Donuts: Spoon or drizzle the orange glaze over the cooled doughnuts evenly to coat the tops. Allow the glaze to set slightly before serving for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute melted non-dairy butter with regular melted butter if not dairy-free.
- Ensure the pumpkin puree is well drained if it feels too wet to get the right batter consistency.
- Using a pastry bag helps with neat and even batter distribution in the doughnut pan.
- The donuts are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- To make the glaze thicker, reduce the almond milk slightly; for thinner glaze, add a bit more.
