If you’re craving a cozy, tender treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite, this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Soft and fluffy with a gentle pumpkin warmth, these donuts are lightly spiced and perfectly coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar blend that adds just the right amount of crunch and sweetness. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or an impressive dessert, these pumpkin donuts bring that comforting seasonal spirit straight to your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples but each plays a crucial role in making these donuts perfectly spiced, fluffy, and deliciously moist. From the smooth pumpkin puree that adds richness and moisture, to the traditional blend of warm spices that gives these donuts their autumn magic—every component is essential for that perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of the donut’s structure, creating a tender crumb.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the donuts rise and stay fluffy.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Boosts leavening and enhances the texture.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances and heightens the sweetness and pumpkin flavor.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings that warm, cozy spice that’s synonymous with fall.
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg: Adds an earthy, sweet warmth that complements pumpkin perfectly.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough for a perfect bite.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a subtle molasses note and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree: Provides moisture, tenderness, and that unmistakable pumpkin taste.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the donuts moist and soft.
- 1/4 cup sugar (for coating): Coats the donuts to add sweetness and crunch.
- 1 tbsp cinnamon (for coating): The perfect finishing touch for that classic cinnamon sugar coating.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Make sure to grease your donut pan thoroughly so that each donut comes out easily without sticking. This makes cleanup and serving a breeze, plus it keeps those delicate donuts intact.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the aromatic spices cinnamon and nutmeg. Add in both the granulated and brown sugars. Mixing these dry ingredients evenly ensures the spices and leavening agents distribute perfectly throughout every bite.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth and uniform. This combination imparts moisture, richness, and the signature pumpkin flavor that makes these donuts special.
Step 4: Unite Wet and Dry, then Bake
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined—over-mixing can make the donuts dense, so keep it light and quick. Spoon the batter into your prepared donut pan, filling each mold about three-quarters full to allow space for rising. Pop them in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and the donuts spring back lightly when touched.
Step 5: Finish with Cinnamon Sugar Coating
Allow your donuts to cool just enough to handle but still warm. Then toss them gently in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon for that irresistible sweet crunch. This coating adds a classic touch and a delicate contrast in texture that makes every bite so satisfying.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts Recipe
Garnishes
While the cinnamon sugar coating is delightful on its own, consider sprinkling a little extra cinnamon or even a dusting of powdered sugar on top for an extra pop of sweetness and charm. A light drizzle of vanilla glaze or cream cheese frosting would also elevate these donuts for a special occasion treat.
Side Dishes
These pumpkin donuts pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or a creamy latte – the spices in the beverage play off the warm cinnamon and nutmeg beautifully. For a richer dessert plate, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the pumpkin flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these donuts stacked on a rustic wooden board adorned with autumn leaves and cinnamon sticks for a festive look. You can also thread a few onto decorative skewers for fun pumpkin donut kabobs, perfect for parties or sharing with guests. Setting them alongside fresh fruit slices like apple or pear adds a fresh, juicy contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store your cinnamon sugar pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their soft texture. Keeping them sealed prevents them from drying out and helps retain that freshly baked taste.
Freezing
To preserve these delicious donuts longer, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen donuts stay good for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Warm your donuts gently in a microwave for about 15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Reheating revives their softness and enhances the aroma, making each bite taste just like freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts Recipe. Just make sure to use pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains extra spices and sweeteners.
Are these donuts baked or fried?
These donuts are baked, which makes them a lighter and easier-to-make alternative to traditional fried donuts, while still being incredibly moist and flavorful.
Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that works well for baking. Just check that your blend contains xanthan gum or add a little to help with texture.
What else can I add to the batter for extra flavor?
Consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy element that complements the pumpkin and cinnamon flavors beautifully.
How do I prevent the donuts from sticking to the pan?
Make sure to grease your donut pan thoroughly with oil or non-stick spray, paying special attention to edges and crevices. You can also lightly dust with flour after greasing for added security against sticking.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts Recipe enough for anyone wanting to bring a little fall magic into their kitchen. They’re straightforward to make, wonderfully flavorful, and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share them with you. Go ahead—bake a batch, grab a warm drink, and savor the cozy comfort that these scrumptious pumpkin donuts bring to your day.
Print
Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (approximately 8 donuts)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these soft and moist Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts, perfectly spiced for a cozy treat. With a tender crumb infused with warm cinnamon and nutmeg, these baked donuts are coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture, making them an irresistible autumn favorite that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Coating
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease your donut pan to ensure the donuts release easily after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined and uniform in texture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vegetable oil together until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
- Unite & Bake: Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, taking care not to overmix to keep the donuts tender. Spoon the batter into the prepared donut molds, filling each about three-quarters full. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the donuts comes out clean.
- Finish: Allow the donuts to cool slightly until they are warm but not hot. Prepare the coating by mixing 1/4 cup sugar with 1 tablespoon cinnamon. Toss each donut gently in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly, then serve and enjoy.
Notes
- Check donuts at 12 minutes to avoid overbaking; every oven heats differently.
- For a dairy-free version, ensure your vegetable oil and sugars meet dietary needs.
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for the best flavor, or canned pumpkin if preferred.
- If you don’t have a donut pan, use a muffin tin and adjust baking time slightly longer.
- Store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
