Introduction
Fall is the perfect time to indulge in warm, spiced treats, and nothing captures the essence of the season quite like homemade pumpkin donuts. These delightful pastries are soft, moist, and coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture that creates a heavenly experience with each bite. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or dessert, these pumpkin donuts are sure to please pumpkin lovers and skeptics alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Vegetable oil: 1/2 cup
Large eggs: 3
Light brown sugar, packed: 1 cup
Pumpkin puree: 1 1/2 cups
All-purpose flour: 1 3/4 cups plus 2 tablespoons
Pumpkin pie spice: 1 1/2 teaspoons
Salt: 1 1/2 teaspoons
Baking powder: 1 1/2 teaspoons
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:
Granulated sugar: 1 cup
Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
Prep Time
Prep time for these delicious donuts is just 15 minutes, allowing you to quickly mix the ingredients and get baking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is between 15 to 18 minutes, resulting in a total time of approximately 33 to 36 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields about 12 mouth-watering pumpkin donuts, perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying throughout the week.
Enjoy making these delightful pumpkin donuts perfect for any fall occasion!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan with baking spray.
Step 2: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a stand mixer, combine the vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, and brown sugar.
Step 3: Add Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking powder.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Step 6: Fill the Donut Pan
Fill each cavity of the donut pan about 3/4 full with the batter.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool in Pan
Remove the donuts from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
Step 9: Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
Step 10: Coat Warm Donuts
Place a few warm donuts into the bag, seal, and shake gently to coat them with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Step 11: Transfer to Wire Rack
Transfer the coated donuts to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Note 1
Ensure that the pumpkin puree is well-mixed and not too watery for best results.
Note 2
The cinnamon-sugar coating can be adjusted based on personal taste; feel free to add more cinnamon if desired.
Note 3
If you do not have a donut pan, you can use a muffin pan; however, baking times may vary.
Note 4
Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
Cook Techniques
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a stand mixer, combine vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, and brown sugar until well blended. It is essential to mix these ingredients thoroughly to achieve a smooth batter.
Incorporating Eggs
Add eggs one at a time into the wet ingredients, ensuring to mix well after each addition. This helps to emulsify the mixture, which contributes to the final texture of the donuts.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking powder. Whisking dry ingredients separately ensures an even distribution of leavening agents and spices.
Folding Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to dense donuts.
Baking
Fill each cavity of the donut pan about 3/4 full and bake in a preheated oven. The baking time ensures the donuts rise and set correctly, achieving a soft and fluffy texture.
Coating with Cinnamon-Sugar
Once the donuts are cooled slightly, place them in a resealable plastic bag with sugar and cinnamon. Shake gently to ensure an even coating, which adds flavor and sweetness.
FAQ
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
No, pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that can affect the texture and flavor of your donuts. It is best to use pure pumpkin puree.
What if I don’t have a donut pan?
You can use a muffin pan as an alternative. Simply fill the muffin cups and adjust the baking time accordingly.
Can these donuts be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the donuts ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for a few days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
How do I know when the donuts are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of a donut; if it comes out clean, the donuts are done baking.
Can I substitute other spices for pumpkin pie spice?
Yes, you can use a combination of nutmeg, cinnamon, and ginger as alternatives to pumpkin pie spice. Adjust according to your taste preference.
Conclusion
These delightful pumpkin donuts coated in cinnamon-sugar make for a perfect treat, especially during the fall season. Their moist texture and warm spices create a comforting flavor that pairs well with a cozy cup of coffee or tea. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast option or a sweet snack, these donuts are sure to be a hit with everyone.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pumpkin Muffins
Transform the donut batter into muffins by baking them in a muffin tin. Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture.
Pumpkin Spice Latte
Pair your pumpkin donuts with a homemade pumpkin spice latte, combining brewed coffee with steamed milk and pumpkin puree.
Maple Glaze
Top your donuts with a maple glaze made from powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of milk for a sweet and rich finishing touch.
Apple Cinnamon Donuts
Incorporate grated apples into the donut batter for a fruity twist and sprinkle with extra cinnamon-sugar for added flavor.
Chocolate Pumpkin Donuts
Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate version of these pumpkin donuts, and dip them in a chocolate glaze post-baking.
Yogurt Parfait
Serve your pumpkin donuts with a yogurt parfait layered with Greek yogurt, granola, and pumpkin puree for a wholesome breakfast option.
Nutty Pumpkin Donuts
Fold in your favorite nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the batter for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
