Hey, fellow food lovers! Nyla here, ready to turn your kitchen into a flavor explosion zone! Today, we’re diving headfirst into a recipe that’s been turning my late-night cravings into pure joy: Pumpkin Spice Donuts!

I’m talking about warm, perfectly spiced donuts that practically melt in your mouth. These aren’t just any donuts; they’re a hug in every bite, and they’re about to become your new go-to treat.

It all started with a late-night kitchen experiment gone right. I was craving something sweet and comforting. After playing around with different spices and textures, the perfect batch of Pumpkin Spice Donuts was born. The taste was incredible; a happy accident turned into my favorite recipe.

This Pumpkin Spice Donuts recipe is more than comfort food; it’s an invitation to create something special. I’m excited to share a taste of my delicious world, where bold flavors meet cozy vibes. Get ready to transform your next meal into an unforgettable experience!

So, grab your apron, and let’s make some magic together! These Pumpkin Spice Donuts are about to become a staple in your kitchen, too. Trust me, the aroma alone is worth the effort!

INGREDIENTS You Need

This Pumpkin Spice Donuts ingredient list is all about bold flavors that work together! This recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can substitute with a gluten-free blend. Let’s gather what we need!

Here’s everything you’ll need:

2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of our donut.
1 teaspoon baking powder: For that perfect, airy rise.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: To balance the acidity and add extra lift.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The heart of our spice blend.
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a warm, nutty depth.
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: A little goes a long way, adding warmth.
1/2 teaspoon salt: To enhance all the flavors.
1 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness, of course!
1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Adds moisture and a caramel-like note.
1 cup pumpkin puree: Make sure it’s 100% pumpkin, not pie filling! You can easily find this during your normal shopping trip.
1/2 cup buttermilk: For a tender crumb and tangy flavor. No worries if you don’t have buttermilk – I use a mix of 1/2 cup milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice all the time in my Pumpkin Spice Donuts.
2 large eggs: To bind everything together.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A classic flavor booster.
Vegetable oil, for frying (if making fried donuts): Use a high-heat oil for the best results.
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional): A simple and elegant finish. This Pumpkin Spice Donuts gets its amazing taste from freshly grated nutmeg. I love adding extra nutmeg to my Pumpkin Spice Donuts for that extra kick.

For a baked version, you’ll need a donut pan!

Make sure your butter is fully melted before you start. If you are short on time, you can also mix the dry ingredients the day before. Store everything in airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Let’s Make Some!

This is my favorite part of making Pumpkin Spice Donuts – watch the delicious magic happen! Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying warm, spiced donuts in no time. I promise, it’s easier than you think!

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. This ensures that each bite of your Pumpkin Spice Donuts is perfectly spiced!
Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. This is where the magic starts happening! The aroma is already hinting at the deliciousness to come.
Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. A few lumps are okay! Overmixing can lead to tough donuts.
For Fried Donuts: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. In my kitchen, this Pumpkin Spice Donuts usually takes about 6-8 minutes per batch.
For Baked Donuts: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan. Fill each cavity about 2/3 full with batter. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. These baked pumpkin donuts should smell absolutely incredible right now. If your kids love this, they’ll go crazy for my Spiced Cider Pumpkin Waffles.
Cool and Decorate: Let the fried or baked pumpkin donuts cool slightly on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar or your favorite glaze, if desired. Your Pumpkin Spice Donuts should smell absolutely incredible right now!
Serve Immediately: Enjoy your warm, freshly made Pumpkin Spice Donuts! Don’t worry if your Pumpkin Spice Donuts looks slightly imperfect. It’ll still taste incredible!

While your Pumpkin Spice Donuts are doing its thing, get ready for some amazing aromas. It’s the perfect time to brew a cup of coffee or tea to enjoy with your delicious treat.

Remember, these instructions are a guide. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you like a stronger cinnamon flavor, add a little extra. The key is to have fun and create spice donuts that you love!

How to Serve Up This!

People literally do happy dances when this Pumpkin Spice Donuts hits the table. They pair incredibly well with a warm cup of apple cider or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This is how I love to enjoy this Pumpkin Spice Donuts!

These Pumpkin Spice Donuts are perfect for those weeknight dinners that need to be special! They’re also fantastic for brunch with friends, holiday gatherings, or even just a cozy night in. They remind me of another family favorite: pumpkin lasagna.

Here are some ideas for serving:

Classic Dusting: A simple dusting of powdered sugar is always a winner.
Cinnamon Sugar: Combine cinnamon and sugar for a warm, spiced coating. You can even check out Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts – Deep Fried – Veena ….
Maple Glaze: Drizzle with a maple glaze for a touch of sweetness.
Chocolate Drizzle: Because chocolate makes everything better!
Cream Cheese Frosting: Adds a tangy and rich element.

For a fusion twist, try serving your Pumpkin Spice Donuts with a dollop of mascarpone cheese and a sprinkle of candied ginger. It’s an unexpected but delightful combination!

Leftovers (if there are any!) can be transformed into a delicious bread pudding. Simply cube the Pumpkin Spice Donuts, soak them in a custard mixture, and bake until golden brown.

To wow your guests, arrange the Pumpkin Spice Donuts on a tiered serving stand and garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. The presentation is as important as the taste! For more weeknight winners that don’t sacrifice on taste, check out my Spiced Cider Pumpkin Waffles. They are a huge hit.

The reactions when I serve this Pumpkin Spice Donuts are always priceless. Everyone loves the warm, comforting flavors and the perfectly soft texture. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

FAQs:

Got questions about making Pumpkin Spice Donuts? Don’t worry, I’ve got answers! Here are some common concerns and my tried-and-true solutions.

Q: Will kitchen newbies succeed with this recipe?

A: Absolutely! This recipe is designed to be easy and fun. Follow the steps, and you’ll be amazed at what you can create. Plus, mistakes often lead to delicious discoveries!

Q: Can I make these donuts ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can! The baked pumpkin donuts are best served fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat them slightly before serving to restore their warmth and softness.

Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?

A: No problem! As I said before, simply combine 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken, and you’re good to go.

Q: Can I freeze these donuts?

A: Absolutely! Freeze the unglazed or unfrosted donuts in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw them at room temperature and then glaze or frost as desired.

Q: What if I mess up my Pumpkin Spice Donuts? (Spoiler: it’ll still taste incredible!)

A: Don’t stress! Even if they’re not perfect, they’ll still be delicious. Maybe they’ll be a little misshapen or slightly overcooked. The flavor will still be amazing!

Q: How can I prep this recipe for busy weeknights?

A: You can mix the dry ingredients ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. You can also prepare the pumpkin puree mixture and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to make the donuts, simply combine the wet and dry ingredients and bake or fry. For other quick options, see Fried Pumpkin Spice Donuts | Norine’s Nest.

Q: Can I use a different type of flour?

A: Yes! You can use a gluten-free flour blend or whole wheat flour. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different. For more sanity-saving dinner ideas, check out my Spiced Shrimp with Roasted Honeynut Squash.

I’ve experimented with different flours and found that a 1:1 gluten-free blend works best. My family taste testing results were overwhelmingly positive when I used almond flour.

CONCLUSION:

This Pumpkin Spice Donuts recipe brings me so much joy because it’s simple, comforting, and bursting with flavor. I love sharing it with friends and family and seeing their faces light up with every bite. It’s a true crowd-pleaser.

Here are My Pumpkin Spice Donuts Flavor Secrets:

Fresh Spices: Use freshly ground spices for the best flavor.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing leads to tough donuts.
Temperature is Key: Make sure your oil is at the right temperature for frying.

Here are some delicious Pumpkin Spice Donuts variations I’ve tested:

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Spice Donuts: Add chocolate chips to the batter for an extra touch of sweetness.
Maple Glazed Pumpkin Spice Donuts: Drizzle with a maple glaze for a rich and decadent treat.
Spiced Pumpkin Spice Donuts: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a subtle kick.

The chocolate chip version is perfect for a kid-friendly treat, while the maple glazed donuts are ideal for a special occasion. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the spiced version! It is a fun twist on the traditional recipe.

Trust your taste buds and get creative in the kitchen. Add your favorite spices, experiment with different glazes, and make this Pumpkin Spice Donuts recipe your own. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process. I would love to see your versions of pumpkin spice donuts!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the delicious magic of Pumpkin Spice Donuts. Happy cooking! If you need even more options, check out Pumpkin Spice Donuts – Good Things Baking Co. Enjoy!

Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Print Recipe

These soft and fluffy pumpkin spice donuts are baked to perfection and coated in a sweet glaze. A perfect fall treat to enjoy with your morning coffee!

Author: Nyla
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 donuts
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup packed brown sugar
½ cup pumpkin puree
¼ cup milk
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
In a separate bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Transfer batter to a piping bag or zip-top bag. Cut the tip off the bag and pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Dip each donut into the glaze and place back on the wire rack to allow the glaze to set.
Enjoy!

Notes

For an extra touch, sprinkle the glazed donuts with chopped pecans or a dusting of pumpkin pie spice.