Name: Baked Pumpkin Doughnuts Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 1/2 cups sugar; 1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin (not pie filling); 1/4 tsp cloves; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ginger; 1/4 tsp cardamom; 1/4 tsp allspice; 1/4 tsp cinnamon; 1 1/2 tsp salt; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar (for coating)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 45 reviews

If you’re looking for a cozy, irresistible treat that blends the warmth of autumn spices with the lightness of a baked delight, this Baked Pumpkin Doughnuts Recipe will become your new favorite indulgence. Imagine soft, fluffy doughnuts infused with the rich flavor of pumpkin and kissed by a blend of fragrant spices, all baked instead of fried for a lighter approach without sacrificing a single bit of that comforting sweetness. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee on a crisp morning or sharing with friends at a festive gathering, these doughnuts are pure pumpkin perfection and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to baking these delightful doughnuts. Each component plays an essential role, from creating the tender crumb to enhancing the signature pumpkin flavor that makes these doughnuts shine.

3 large eggs: These provide structure and moisture to keep the doughnuts light and fluffy.
1/2 cup vegetable oil: Adds tenderness and helps keep the crumb moist without heaviness.
1 1/2 cups sugar: Sweetens the doughnuts just right and helps with browning.
1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin (not pie filling): Brings a smooth pumpkin puree flavor and lovely color.
1/4 tsp each cloves, nutmeg, ginger, cardamom, allspice and cinnamon (or 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin spice): These spices create that classic, cozy pumpkin pie essence.
1 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances flavor depth and balances the sweetness.
1 1/2 tsp baking powder: Gives a gentle lift for an airy texture.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that binds everything together.
1 cup sugar (for coating): Adds a delightfully sweet and sparkling finish.

How to Make Baked Pumpkin Doughnuts Recipe

Baked Pumpkin Doughnuts Recipe - Recipe Image

Step 1: Prepare Your Doughnut Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and giving your doughnut pan a light buttering or spray. Even if your pan is non-stick, this extra step ensures your doughnuts will come out beautifully every time. You can use a regular doughnut pan or a mini one; just remember, baking times will adjust accordingly. The recipe works perfectly with mini pans that measure about 2 3/4 inches across.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients and Spices

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, sugar, pumpkin puree, all those aromatic spices, salt, and baking powder. This combination forms the flavorful, moist base that makes these doughnuts so irresistibly soft and speckled with warmth.

Step 3: Fold in the Flour

Gently fold the flour into the wet mixture until just combined. Resist the urge to overmix because you want to keep the doughnuts tender and light—not dense. This delicate folding helps maintain a soft, airy texture.

Step 4: Fill Your Pan

Fill each doughnut mold about three-quarters full with batter. An easy trick is to transfer the batter into a large resealable bag and snip off one corner, turning it into a makeshift piping bag for neat, even portions. If you have only one pan, bake in two batches but be sure to clean and re-spray the pan between uses to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Bake the Doughnuts

Bake your doughnuts for 12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye as small doughnuts cook quickly—you definitely don’t want them to dry out by overbaking.

Step 6: Cool and Release

Once baked, allow the doughnuts to cool just enough so they’re safe to handle, then gently pop them out onto a cooling rack. This brief cooling period ensures they hold their shape perfectly.

Step 7: Sugar Coating Finale

While the doughnuts are still warm, toss them in a bowl filled with sugar for a sweet, sparkling coating that perfectly complements the spicy pumpkin base. This final touch adds a delightful crunch and extra sweetness.

How to Serve Baked Pumpkin Doughnuts Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate your doughnuts with simple garnishes like a dusting of powdered sugar, a light drizzle of maple glaze, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. Each garnish provides a different dimension of sweetness and spice, making your pumpkin doughnut experience truly special.

Side Dishes

These doughnuts pair wonderfully with warm drinks like coffee, chai tea, or even a creamy latte. Offering fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream on the side turns your serving into an irresistible autumn-inspired brunch or afternoon treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve your baked pumpkin doughnuts stacked on a rustic wooden board or arranged in a wreath shape sprinkled with little rosemary sprigs or mini pumpkins. You can even dip half of each doughnut in melted white chocolate and sprinkle crushed pecans for a stunning, tasty twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep leftover doughnuts fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This short storage period helps maintain their softness without the sugar coating becoming soggy.

Freezing

To enjoy these doughnuts later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to two months and make a convenient quick snack whenever pumpkin craving strikes.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or leftover doughnuts by warming them in the oven at 300°F for 5 to 7 minutes or until soft and warmed through. Avoid microwaving to preserve their tender texture and sugar coating crunch.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh pumpkin for canned pumpkin in this recipe?

Yes, you can, but make sure to cook and puree the fresh pumpkin thoroughly to match the moisture and texture of canned pumpkin for the best results.

Do these doughnuts need to be baked or can they be fried?

This recipe is specifically designed for baking to keep it lighter and easier, but if you prefer fried doughnuts, you’ll want a different recipe for the batter and frying instructions.

Can I use gluten-free flour to make these doughnuts?

Absolutely! Just be sure to use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for proper structure and texture.

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

You can substitute melted coconut oil or a neutral oil like canola, but avoid strongly flavored oils that might overpower the pumpkin spices.

How long do these doughnuts last fresh?

They are best eaten within two days when stored properly, as they tend to lose their tender texture after that.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the way this Baked Pumpkin Doughnuts Recipe captures the essence of fall in every bite. It’s easy to make, wonderfully flavorful, and a perfect treat to enjoy any time you’re craving that cozy pumpkin goodness. Give it a try, and I promise these doughnuts will quickly become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.