Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Moist and fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are the perfect treat for any occasion. These delightful donuts are baked, not fried, making them a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Ready in just 20 minutes, they are an ideal breakfast or snack to enjoy with family and friends during the fall season or whenever you crave something sweet and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of only 8 minutes, you can whip up these delicious donuts in no time.
• Baked to Perfection: Unlike traditional donuts that are fried, these are baked, resulting in a lighter texture.
• Flavorful Twist: The combination of pumpkin spice and cinnamon sugar brings out the best flavors of fall.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack. They also make great gifts!
• Healthier Choice: Using wholesome ingredients like pumpkin puree adds nutrition without compromising taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delightful donuts, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools that will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Donut pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Donut pan: This is crucial for achieving that classic donut shape while baking.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows for easy mixing of dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Whisk: Ideal for ensuring your batter is smooth and free of lumps.

Ingredients

Moist and fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts are baked, not fried, and ready in just 20 minutes!

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup + 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon pumpkin spice

Wet Ingredients

• 1/4 cup pumpkin pie puree
• 2 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk (I used whole, but any type will do)

Cinnamon Sugar Topping

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon

Additional Ingredients (if needed)

This recipe uses similar ingredients more than once for added ease.

Additional Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup + 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon pumpkin spice

Additional Wet Ingredients

• 2 1/2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
• 1/2 cup almond milk

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to bake your donuts perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Donut Pan

Grease your donut pan with some butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin spice.
2. Stir until well mixed.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Mix together the pumpkin pie puree, melted butter, and milk until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients:
– Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Fill the Donut Pan

Using a piping bag or spoon:
– Fill each cavity of the donut pan about halfway with batter.

Step 7: Bake

Place the donut pan in the preheated oven:
– Bake for about 12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping

While donuts bake:
– Mix together sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.

Step 9: Coat Donuts

Once done:
– Let them cool slightly before brushing each donut with melted butter and rolling them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious homemade Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Serving Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts can elevate your breakfast or brunch experience. These delightful treats pair wonderfully with various accompaniments, enhancing their flavor and presentation.

With Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the donuts perfectly. The rich flavors create a delightful morning ritual.

With Whipped Cream

• Top your donuts with fresh whipped cream for an indulgent treat. This adds a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the donut’s fluffy interior.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm donuts alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The heat from the donut melts the ice cream slightly, creating a delicious dessert experience.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of maple syrup adds extra sweetness and enhances the autumn flavors in the donuts.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair your donuts with sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast. The natural sweetness of fruit balances out the richness of the donuts.

With Hot Chocolate

• Enjoy these donuts as a sweet side to a cozy cup of hot chocolate. The chocolate’s richness pairs well with the pumpkin spice notes.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Creating the ideal Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and spices are fresh for optimal flavor and rise.
• Measure Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons to get precise amounts; this is crucial for baking success.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your donuts light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense results.
• Cool Before Coating: Allow the donuts to cool slightly before tossing them in cinnamon sugar, so it adheres better.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor variations.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days for maximum freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar donuts can make for a more balanced meal. Here are some tasty options that complement these sweet treats nicely.

1. Bacon
   Crispy bacon provides a savory contrast that enhances the sweet flavors of the donuts.

2. Eggs
   Scrambled or poached eggs add protein and make your meal more filling while balancing sweetness.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing side that adds creaminess and crunch.

4. Oatmeal
   A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or fruits makes for a hearty breakfast alongside your donuts.

5. Smoothie
   A fruity smoothie can provide hydration and nutrients, making it a perfect complement to your sweet treats.

6. Chia Pudding
   This healthy option adds fiber and pairs well with the rich flavors of pumpkin spices in your donuts.

7. Fruit Salad
   A vibrant blend of seasonal fruits refreshes your palate after enjoying sweet donuts, providing balance.

8. Cinnamon Applesauce
   This sweet side echoes the flavors in your donuts while adding moisture and warmth to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise measurements. This can affect the texture and taste of your donuts.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense donuts. Stir just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow your donuts to cool slightly before adding cinnamon sugar. This helps the topping stick better.
• Using stale spices: Check your spice freshness, especially pumpkin spice. Fresh spices enhance flavor significantly.
• Not preheating the oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps in achieving an even rise and proper cooking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• For best results, wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap.

Reheating Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Warm for 10-15 seconds for a quick reheat; be careful not to overdo it as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet for 2-3 minutes per side to regain some crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts.

How do I make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts vegan?

You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use plant-based milk and oil instead of dairy products.

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin puree works well and can add a fresher flavor compared to canned options.

What toppings pair well with Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

Consider drizzling with maple glaze or adding chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor!

Why are my donuts dense?

Dense donuts may result from overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Make sure to mix gently and measure carefully.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are moist, fluffy, and incredibly versatile. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack, you can easily customize them by adding chocolate chips or nuts. Give this delightful recipe a try – it’s sure to warm your heart!