Introduction
Indulging in homemade baked goods can bring warmth and joy to any kitchen, and there’s nothing quite like the flavor of pumpkin spice during the fall season. This pumpkin donut recipe combines the richness of pumpkin puree with a delightful blend of spices to create a scrumptious treat that’s perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Plus, the easy-to-follow steps ensure that even novice bakers can whip up a batch with confidence.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
1 3/4 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 to 18 minutes
Total Time: 25 to 28 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 donuts
Following the simple steps outlined in this recipe, you can enjoy the delightful flavors of pumpkin spice donuts right from your oven. Get ready to share these delicious treats with friends and family—or savor them all for yourself!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure that you have a donut pan ready and spray it with baking spray to prevent sticking.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a stand mixer, add the vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, and packed light brown sugar. Beat these ingredients together until well combined and smooth.
Add Eggs
Add the large eggs to the mixture one at a time. After each addition, mix well to ensure the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking powder. Make sure there are no lumps in the dry ingredients for even distribution.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in the stand mixer. Mix on low speed until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the donuts.
Fill the Donut Pan
Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each cavity of the donut pan about 3/4 full with the batter. This will allow enough space for the donuts to rise while baking.
Bake the Donuts
Place the filled donut pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into a donut comes out clean.
Cool the Donuts
Once baked, remove the donut pan from the oven and let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This will help them firm up slightly before removing.
Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
In a large ziplock bag, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. This will create a delicious coating for the donuts.
Coat the Donuts
Take a few slightly cooled donuts and place them in the ziplock bag. Seal the bag and shake gently until the donuts are evenly coated with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Transfer and Cool
After coating, transfer the donuts to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help maintain their texture and prevent sogginess.
Notes
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them.
Alternatives
If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can create your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in equal parts.
Donut Pan Options
If you do not have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin instead; just be sure to adjust your baking time as muffins may take slightly longer to bake.
Cook techniques
Mixing Ingredients
Using a stand mixer allows for even blending of the vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, and brown sugar, ensuring a smooth base for the donuts.
Whisking Dry Ingredients
Whisking together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking powder in a separate bowl helps evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices, which is crucial for the donut’s rise and flavor.
Filling the Donut Pan
Filling each cavity of the donut pan about 3/4 full ensures that the donuts have enough space to rise without overflowing during baking.
Baking Time
Baking the donuts at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 18 minutes allows them to cook through evenly. Using a toothpick to check for doneness ensures they are fully baked without being overdone.
Cooling the Donuts
Letting the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack helps maintain their shape and prevents them from becoming soggy.
Coating the Donuts
Shaking the slightly cooled donuts in a bag with cinnamon and sugar creates a nice, even coating that enhances the flavor and adds sweetness.
FAQ
Can I substitute pumpkin puree with fresh pumpkin?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin; just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth before using.
Can I use another type of oil instead of vegetable oil?
You can substitute vegetable oil with canola oil or melted coconut oil for similar results.
What can I do if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
You can make your own by combining cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice in equal proportions.
How do I know when the donuts are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of a donut; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re done.
Can I store these donuts? If so, how?
Yes, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.
Conclusion
This pumpkin donut recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors that captures the essence of fall. The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice creates moist, fragrant donuts that are perfect for any occasion. Coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, these treats are sure to become a favorite in your household.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pumpkin Muffins
Transform the donut batter into muffins for a quick breakfast option. Simply pour the batter into a muffin tin and adjust the baking time accordingly.
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Donuts
Fold in some chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet twist. The rich chocolate pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin flavors.
Maple Glazed Pumpkin Donuts
Create a simple maple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with maple syrup and drizzle it over the cooled donuts for added sweetness.
Nutty Pumpkin Donuts
Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a crunchy texture that complements the soft donuts.
Spiced Cream Cheese Filling
Pipe a cream cheese filling flavored with vanilla and cinnamon into the center of the donuts for a delicious surprise.
