Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

There’s something magical about autumn—the crisp air, colorful leaves, and of course, pumpkin-spiced everything! If you’re craving a seasonal treat that’s warm, fluffy, and perfectly spiced, these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are the answer. They’re healthier than fried donuts, incredibly moist, and packed with cozy pumpkin flavor that will brighten any chilly morning. Best of all, they come together quickly in just one bowl, making them the perfect weekend bake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier than fried – no messy oil, just a light bake.

• Quick & easy – simple ingredients, ready in under 30 minutes.

• Cozy flavors – cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin puree make these irresistible.

• Perfect for fall gatherings – from brunch to Thanksgiving breakfast.

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts recipe, this is it!

Ingredients for Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious fall treats:

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups (220 g) all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 g) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

• ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed

• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar

• ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil (or melted butter)

• 2 large eggs

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Optional Coating:

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 3 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make these Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts, you don’t need fancy equipment. Just a few basics:

• Mixing bowls (1 large, 1 medium)

• Whisk and spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Donut baking pan (6 or 12 cavities)

• Cooling rack

• Pastry brush (for butter coating, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have warm, fluffy Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts in no time:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your donut pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or the donuts may turn dense.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon the batter into the donut cavities, filling each about ¾ full. You can also pipe the batter using a zip-top bag for neater results.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool & Coat

Allow donuts to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. For a cinnamon-sugar coating, brush warm donuts with melted butter and roll in cinnamon-sugar mixture.

And just like that—you’ve got warm, pillowy-soft Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts ready to enjoy!

Helpful Tips for Perfect Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

1. Use pure pumpkin puree – Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which already contains sugar and spices.

2. Don’t overmix – Stir just until combined for soft, fluffy donuts.

3. Add a glaze – Instead of cinnamon sugar, drizzle with a maple glaze for extra sweetness.

4. Make ahead friendly – Bake and store in an airtight container; reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

5. Pumpkin spice boost – Replace individual spices with 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice for convenience.

6. Double the batch – These go quickly! Make a double batch if you’re hosting brunch or a fall party.

Serving Suggestions

These donuts are incredibly versatile and fit many occasions:

• Pair with a pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate autumn breakfast.

• Serve at a fall brunch buffet alongside apple cider muffins and cinnamon rolls.

• Offer as a Thanksgiving morning treat while the turkey roasts.

• Drizzle with cream cheese glaze for a dessert-worthy twist.

Why Baked Donuts Are a Great Alternative

Traditional donuts are fried in oil, which adds extra calories and fat. Baking gives you the same soft, cake-like texture with less guilt. These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts strike the perfect balance: indulgent, yet lighter than the fried version.

Variations of Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Want to put your own spin on this recipe? Try these creative ideas:

• Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Donuts – Stir in ½ cup mini chocolate chips.

• Pumpkin Cream Cheese Donuts – Add a cream cheese swirl before baking.

• Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts – Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

• Vegan Pumpkin Donuts – Replace eggs with flax eggs and use coconut oil.

• Pumpkin Pecan Donuts – Fold in chopped pecans for extra crunch.

Storing and Freezing

• Room Temperature – Store cooled donuts in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Refrigerator – Lasts up to 1 week, but bring to room temperature before serving.

• Freezer – Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight and reheat lightly in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these without a donut pan?

Yes! You can bake them in a muffin tin—just adjust the baking time to 18–20 minutes.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Absolutely. You can cut the sugar by ¼ cup without affecting texture.

Are these donuts fluffy or dense?

They’re light, cake-like, and moist thanks to the pumpkin puree.

Can I add a glaze instead of cinnamon sugar?

Yes—try a simple glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and a touch of maple syrup.

Conclusion

These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts are the ultimate fall treat—soft, flavorful, and so simple to make at home. With warm spices, real pumpkin puree, and a fluffy baked texture, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite for your family. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven with a cup of coffee or prepare a batch for a festive brunch, these donuts are guaranteed to impress.

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