As fall rolls in, there’s nothing better than a warm, spiced treat. Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for cozy evenings. In this post, I’ll share easy steps to make these tasty delights. With simple ingredients and handy tips, you can bake donuts that smell and taste like fall. Let’s dive in and make your kitchen the go-to spot for seasonal treats this autumn!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts
To make these tasty donuts, gather the following main ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
These ingredients make the base of your donuts. The pumpkin puree adds moisture and flavor. The sugars give sweetness, while the spices bring warmth.
Optional Ingredients for Customization
You can change up the flavor or texture with these optional ingredients:
- Chocolate chips
- Chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts)
- Dried fruits (like cranberries or raisins)
Feel free to mix in any of these for a twist. They can make your donuts even more delicious.
Essential Tools and Equipment Needed
You will need some tools to make the process smooth:
- Donut pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Piping bag or ziplock bag (for filling the pan)
- Toothpick (for checking doneness)
- Wire rack (for cooling)
These tools ensure you create the perfect donuts. The donut pan shapes them just right, while the wire rack helps cool them evenly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of the Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures even baking. Grease a donut pan with non-stick spray to help the donuts release easily. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Add 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth. In another bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and spices: 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Baking the Donuts
Next, fill each cavity of the donut pan about 3/4 full with the batter. You can use a piping bag or a ziplock bag with one corner snipped off for easy filling. Bake the donuts for 15 to 18 minutes. They are done when a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time helps them set nicely.
Coating the Donuts in Cinnamon Sugar
While your donuts cool, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. In a shallow bowl, mix 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Once the donuts are fully cool, roll each one in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Make sure they are fully coated for that sweet and spicy touch. Serve them fresh, or store in an airtight container for up to three days. Enjoy your delicious fall treat!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Texture
To get soft and fluffy donuts, you must mix carefully. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts. Use fresh pumpkin puree for a moist texture. If you use canned pumpkin, drain excess liquid. Make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F. This ensures even baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is not greasing the pan well. Make sure to use non-stick spray or oil. Another mistake is skipping the cooling step. Allow the donuts to cool for five minutes in the pan. This helps them hold their shape better. Also, don’t rush the coating process. Roll the donuts in cinnamon sugar only when they are fully cool.
Enhancements for Flavor
You can make these donuts even more special. Add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for a fun twist. Try using maple extract instead of vanilla for a unique taste. For a spicier flavor, add more cinnamon or even a pinch of cloves. You can also top the donuts with a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. This gives a sweet finish that pairs well with the pumpkin flavor.
Variations
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Donuts
You can add chocolate chips to the batter for a tasty twist. Use about 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Fold them in gently before filling your donut pan. The chocolate melts and mixes well with the pumpkin flavor. These donuts become rich and sweet, perfect for chocolate lovers.
Maple Glazed Pumpkin Donuts
To make maple glazed pumpkin donuts, skip the cinnamon sugar. Instead, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup. Add a splash of milk to make it smooth. Once the donuts cool, dip the tops into the glaze. This gives a sweet, sticky finish that pairs well with pumpkin.
Gluten-Free Version
For a gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Check that your blend includes xanthan gum for the best texture. The rest of the recipe stays the same. These donuts will still taste great and be safe for those avoiding gluten. Enjoy the autumn flavors without worry!
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Donuts
To keep your cinnamon sugar pumpkin donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container. A container helps to lock in moisture and flavor. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Make sure the donuts are completely cool before storing them. This step stops sogginess.
How Long Do They Last?
These delightful donuts last for up to 3 days when stored properly. After that, they may lose their flavor and texture. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing. Just wrap each donut tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
Reheating Instructions
To enjoy your donuts warm, reheat them in the microwave. Heat for about 10-15 seconds. This warms them without drying out the donuts. You can also use an oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C), and heat for about 5 minutes. Enjoy your fresh, warm treat!
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just cook it until soft, then mash it. You need the same amount, one cup. Fresh pumpkin may have a lighter flavor. But, it will still taste great in the donuts.
How can I make these donuts healthier?
To make these donuts healthier, you can swap some ingredients. Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This adds fiber and nutrients. You can also reduce the sugar. Try using half the amount of granulated sugar in the batter. Consider adding applesauce for moisture.
Where can I find pre-made cinnamon sugar pumpkin donuts?
You can find pre-made donuts at many bakeries. Some grocery stores may also carry them in the fall. Check local farmer’s markets too. They often have fresh, seasonal treats. If you can’t find them, consider making your own. It’s fun and very rewarding!
Making cinnamon sugar pumpkin donuts is fun and easy. We covered key ingredients, tools, and step-by-step instructions to help you bake perfect donuts. I shared tips for texture and common mistakes to avoid. You can also try fun variations like chocolate chip or gluten-free donuts.
Store them well to keep them fresh for longer. Enjoy your baking adventures, and don’t hesitate to experiment! Your taste buds will love the results, and you’ll impress everyone with your delicious treats.
