Introduction to Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts
As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts wafting through the kitchen. These delightful treats are not just a feast for the senses; they’re a quick solution for busy mornings or a sweet way to impress your loved ones. I remember the first time I made these donuts; my kids couldn’t resist sneaking bites while they were still warm! Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making them again and again, especially during the cozy fall season.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts
These Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts are a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 27 minutes from start to finish. The fluffy texture and warm spices create a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, making them a slightly healthier indulgence. Your family will adore them, and you’ll love how simple they are to make!
Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pumpkin puree: This is the star of the show! It adds moisture and that lovely pumpkin flavor.
- Sugar: Regular granulated sugar sweetens the donuts, balancing the spices perfectly.
- Brown sugar: This adds a hint of caramel flavor and extra moisture, making the donuts even fluffier.
- Eggs: They provide structure and richness, helping the donuts rise beautifully.
- Vegetable oil: This keeps the donuts moist. You can also use melted coconut oil for a different flavor.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making each bite irresistible.
- All-purpose flour: The base of the donuts, giving them that classic donut texture.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the donuts rise, creating a light and fluffy treat.
- Baking soda: Works with the acids in the recipe to give the donuts a nice lift.
- Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that brings the essence of fall into every bite.
- Ground nutmeg: This adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor, complementing the cinnamon.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, making them pop.
- Granulated sugar (for coating): This is mixed with cinnamon to create that sweet, crunchy exterior.
- Ground cinnamon (for coating): It adds a delightful spiced sweetness to the outside of the donuts.
For those looking to make adjustments, you can substitute applesauce for the oil for a healthier option. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding chocolate chips or nuts for an extra twist! You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for achieving that perfect bake. While the oven warms up, grab your donut pan and give it a good greasing. I like to use a non-stick spray, but you can also brush it with a little oil. This ensures your donuts pop out easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This mixture is the heart of your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts, bursting with flavor and moisture. Trust me, the aroma alone will have your family gathering in the kitchen!
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This step is essential for evenly distributing the leavening agents and spices. It’s like creating a secret blend that will elevate your donuts to the next level. Make sure there are no lumps; we want a smooth batter!
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, and we want them fluffy and light, just like a cloud of pumpkin goodness!
Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each donut cavity about 2/3 full with the batter. This allows enough room for the donuts to rise without overflowing. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even use a cookie scoop for a neat and tidy fill. Just imagine how lovely they’ll look once baked!
Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Pop the donut pan into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell will be heavenly, and you might find it hard to resist peeking in the oven!
Step 7: Cool and Coat
Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes. This helps them firm up a bit. After that, gently remove them from the pan and place them on a wire rack. While they’re still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This step is where the magic happens, creating that irresistible sweet crust!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your pumpkin puree is pure and not pumpkin pie filling for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it should be just combined for fluffy donuts.
- Use a piping bag for easy filling of the donut pan.
- Let the donuts cool slightly before coating to prevent the sugar from melting.
- Experiment with spices like ginger or cloves for a unique twist!
Equipment Needed
- Donut pan: Essential for shaping your donuts. If you don’t have one, a muffin tin works in a pinch!
- Mixing bowls: Use at least two for wet and dry ingredients.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best results.
- Cooling rack: Helps donuts cool evenly; a plate can work too!
Variations of Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts
- Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Donuts: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise in every bite.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these donuts suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Maple Glaze: Instead of cinnamon sugar, drizzle a maple glaze over the cooled donuts for a delightful twist.
- Spiced Pumpkin Donuts: Enhance the flavor by adding ground ginger or cloves to the spice mix for a more complex taste.
- Nutty Pumpkin Donuts: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts
- Pair with Coffee: These donuts are perfect with a warm cup of coffee or chai tea.
- Serve with Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a delightful touch.
- Presentation: Arrange on a decorative platter for a charming fall gathering.
- Enjoy with Ice Cream: Try them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
FAQs about Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, just roast it, scoop out the flesh, and blend it until smooth. It adds a lovely homemade touch to your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts.
How do I store leftover donuts?
Store your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to two months!
Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Just fill the donut pan and bake them fresh in the morning for a delightful breakfast treat.
What can I substitute for vegetable oil?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use applesauce instead of vegetable oil. It keeps the donuts moist while reducing the fat content.
Are these donuts suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts will still be delicious and fluffy!
Final Thoughts
Making Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The joy of watching my kids’ faces light up as they take their first bite is priceless. These donuts bring warmth to chilly mornings and are perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee or as a sweet treat after dinner, they’re sure to become a beloved staple in your home. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the fall flavors, and let these delightful donuts fill your kitchen with love and laughter!
Print
Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts: A Must-Try Delight!
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 12 donuts 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and fluffy pumpkin donuts coated in cinnamon sugar, perfect for fall.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
- In a large bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fill the donut pan with the batter, about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the donuts cool for a few minutes before removing them from the pan.
- In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and cinnamon for coating.
- While the donuts are still warm, coat them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- These donuts can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- For a healthier option, you can substitute applesauce for the oil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
