Pumpkin donuts are a delicious treat, perfect for the fall season or any time you’re craving a warm, spiced delight. These donuts have a soft, moist texture with rich pumpkin flavor, enhanced by spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Whether baked or fried, pumpkin donuts can be customized with different glazes, toppings, and flavor combinations.
In this guide, we will walk you through the entire process of making pumpkin donuts, from gathering the necessary ingredients to baking or frying, glazing, and decorating. Follow along to create the perfect batch of homemade pumpkin donuts.
Ingredients List
Before starting, gather all the ingredients needed for both the donut batter and the glaze or toppings.
For the Pumpkin Donut Batter
2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
½ cup (100g) brown sugar
1 cup (240g) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
2 large eggs
½ cup (120ml) milk
¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Glaze (Optional)
1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating (Optional)
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
Optional Toppings
Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts)
Chocolate chips
Caramel drizzle
Cream cheese frosting
Equipment Needed
To make pumpkin donuts, you’ll need the right tools to ensure a smooth baking or frying process.
Mixing bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients.
Whisk and spatula: To mix and fold ingredients properly.
Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps blend the batter smoothly.
Donut pan or deep fryer: Depending on your preferred method.
Piping bag or spoon: For filling the donut pan evenly.
Wire cooling rack: To let the donuts cool properly after baking or frying.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) if you are baking. If frying, heat oil in a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon.
In another bowl, whisk the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the donuts dense.
Step 2: Fill the Donut Pan or Fryer
For baked donuts: Grease a donut pan and pipe or spoon the batter into the molds, filling them about ¾ full.
For fried donuts: Transfer the batter into a piping bag, pipe small rings onto parchment paper, and carefully drop them into the hot oil.
Step 3: Bake or Fry the Donuts
Baking: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Frying: Fry the donuts in hot oil for about 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on a paper towel.
Making the Glaze or Toppings
Simple Powdered Sugar Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
Adjust the consistency by adding more milk for a thinner glaze or more sugar for a thicker one.
Maple Glaze
Combine 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, and 1-2 tablespoons milk.
Mix until smooth and pourable.
Cream Cheese Glaze
Beat together 4 oz (115g) softened cream cheese, ½ cup powdered sugar, and 2 tablespoons milk until creamy.
Glazing and Decorating the Donuts
Let the donuts cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting too much.
Dip each donut into the glaze, coating evenly.
Place on a wire rack to set and sprinkle with toppings like cinnamon sugar, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips.
Tips for Success
Use fresh pumpkin puree for the best flavor.
Measure ingredients accurately to avoid a dry or overly moist batter.
Do not overmix the batter, as it can lead to tough donuts.
If frying, maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) to prevent the donuts from becoming greasy.
Let donuts cool on a wire rack to avoid soggy bottoms.
Variations and Additions
Chocolate Pumpkin Donuts
Add ½ cup cocoa powder to the batter.
Pumpkin Pecan Donuts
Stir in ½ cup chopped pecans.
Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts
Add 1 teaspoon instant coffee to the glaze.
Serving and Storage
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy with hot coffee, chai tea, or apple cider for a cozy treat.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Storage Tips
Store baked donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to a week if using a dairy-based glaze.
Freeze unglazed donuts for up to 2 months, then reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Whether baked or fried, these donuts bring the warm, spiced flavors of fall to your kitchen. By following this step-by-step guide, you can create delicious homemade pumpkin donuts with various glazes and toppings to suit your taste. Enjoy them fresh, store them properly, and experiment with different flavors for a delightful experience.
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