Pumpkin Spice Donuts Recipe

Pumpkin Spice Donuts: A Delicious Treat for Fall
Pumpkin spice donuts are the perfect blend of warm spices and buttery goodness. This delightful recipe captures the essence of fall in every bite, making it a must-try for anyone who loves seasonal flavors. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these donuts are a crowd-pleaser that will fill your home with a delicious aroma.
Why Make This Recipe
There are countless reasons to make pumpkin spice donuts at home. First, they are incredibly easy to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice offers a comforting flavor that’s not only delicious but also nostalgic. Plus, they are baked, not fried, which means they’re a bit healthier than traditional donuts! Coating them in cinnamon sugar adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that makes these treats irresistible.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Donuts
Follow this simple step-by-step guide to whip up your own batch of pumpkin spice donuts.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups flour (162 grams)
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/3 cup butter (softened)
- 1/4 cup butter (melted, for dipping)
- 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (3 tbsp sugar + 2 tsp cinnamon)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Mix until combined.
- In a large bowl, combine the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, brown sugar, milk, and 1/3 cup softened butter. Mix until smooth.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; some lumps are okay.
- Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a zip-lock bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe the batter into a greased mini donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops bounce back when touched or a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
- In a shallow bowl, add 1/4 cup melted butter. In another shallow bowl, combine the cinnamon and sugar.
- Dip each donut into the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar until fully coated. Enjoy your delicious pumpkin spice donuts!
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Donuts
These pumpkin spice donuts are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they’re still warm. Serve them with a cozy cup of coffee or tea for a comforting treat. You can also plate them beautifully on a cake stand for special occasions or holiday gatherings.
How to Store Pumpkin Spice Donuts
To keep your pumpkin spice donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze uncoated donuts in a zip-lock bag for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw and coat them in melted butter and cinnamon sugar.
Tips to Make Pumpkin Spice Donuts
- Don’t Over-Mix: It’s crucial to mix just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to tough donuts.
- Pipe with Ease: Using a piping bag makes filling the donut pans mess-free.
- Customize Your Coating: Explore different toppings such as a glaze or powdered sugar for a unique twist!
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Add-ins: Mix in chocolate chips or walnuts for extra flavor and texture.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin that you’ve cooked and puréed, but make sure it’s not too watery.
Q2: Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q3: How can I make these donuts healthier?
You can reduce the sugar content, use applesauce instead of butter, or substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour.
Enjoy these heavenly pumpkin spice donuts as the perfect seasonal treat—soft, sweet, and sprinkled with warmth!

Pumpkin Spice Donuts
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups flour (162 grams)
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/3 cup butter (softened)
For Coating
- 1/4 cup butter (melted, for dipping)
- 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (3 tbsp sugar + 2 tsp cinnamon)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until combined.
- In a large bowl, combine the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, brown sugar, milk, and softened butter. Mix until smooth.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.
- Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a zip-lock bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe the batter into a greased mini donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops bounce back when touched or a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Coating
- In a shallow bowl, add melted butter. In another shallow bowl, combine the cinnamon and sugar.
- Dip each donut into the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar until fully coated.