Soft & Fluffy Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating

As the leaves start to change and the crisp fall air settles in, there’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of baked goods to bring a sense of coziness into your home. Imagine yourself on a busy autumn morning, the kids need to get to school, and you’ve got a million things on your plate—but you want to infuse a bit of seasonal joy into your day. What if I told you that you could whip up a batch of soft and fluffy pumpkin spice donuts in just over an hour? These delightful treats not only make your breakfast more delicious but are also perfect for sharing with family and friends. Welcome to the irresistibly warm and inviting world of pumpkin spice donuts—the ideal treat for busy people looking to add a touch of sweetness to their day. Let’s dive into why you will love this recipe!

Why You Will Love This Soft & Fluffy Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating

If you’re anything like me, you crave flavors that evoke memories and comfort, especially during the fall. The rich blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in these donuts transports you to a happy place with every bite. Not only do they taste amazing and pair perfectly with your morning coffee, but they are surprisingly easy to make, even if your mornings are chaotic. Whether you are preparing a cozy breakfast for your family, hosting a fall brunch, or just treating yourself after a long week, this recipe delivers moist, flavorful donuts with a lovely cinnamon-sugar coating that will have everyone asking for seconds.

In addition, these donuts can be made ahead of time and stored, so you can enjoy a delightful snack anytime during the season without the fuss. With their soft and fluffy texture, they are baked and not fried, making them a lighter option that still satisfies your cravings. So let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on creating these incredible pumpkin spice donuts that will surely become a fall favorite in your household!

Practical Tips / Cooking Tips

• Use Fresh Pumpkin: If possible, opt for fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned for a more intense flavor. You can easily roast a pumpkin and blend it into a smooth puree.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix until just combined. This will ensure the donuts remain tender and fluffy.
• Check Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center of a donut to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, you’re good to go.
• Coat While Warm: Make sure you coat the donuts with cinnamon sugar while they’re still warm to adhere better and enhance the flavor.

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

These donuts, while a sweet treat, also incorporate some nutritional benefits. Pumpkin is rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body, crucial for vision and skin health. It also provides fiber, supporting good digestive health. Additionally, the spices like cinnamon and nutmeg have their own health benefits; cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar levels, while nutmeg is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. When compared to traditional fried donuts, baked ones generally have fewer calories and less fat, making them a more heart-healthy option for indulging in fall flavors.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients (with substitution options in table format)

Ingredient	Quantity	Substitution Options
All-purpose flour	1 ½ cups	Whole wheat flour for a healthier option
Baking powder	1 teaspoon	Self-rising flour can be used if adjusting other leavening agents
Ground cinnamon	1 teaspoon	Apple pie spice or pumpkin pie spice for diverse flavors
Ground nutmeg	½ teaspoon	Allspice can be used for a different spice profile
Ground ginger	¼ teaspoon	Fresh ginger for a spicier kick
Granulated sugar	¾ cup	Coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index choice
Pumpkin puree	1 cup	Applesauce for a different texture and flavor
Egg	1 large	Flax egg for a vegan alternative
Vegetable oil	⅓ cup	Applesauce or melted coconut oil for a healthier fat
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon	Almond extract for a nutty twist
Cinnamon sugar	For coating	Replace with cocoa powder and sugar for a chocolate twist

Instructions (step-by-step with cooking tips)

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger until evenly combined.

3. In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, pumpkin puree, egg, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients to create a batter. Be careful not to overmix; stir until just combined.

5. Spoon the batter into the greased donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full. You can also use a piping bag for easier filling.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the donuts spring back when pressed and a toothpick comes out clean.

7. Remove the donuts from the oven, and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. While the donuts cool, prepare the cinnamon sugar by mixing granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.

9. Once the donuts are still slightly warm, gently toss them in the cinnamon sugar until fully coated. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later enjoyment.

FAQ

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure that the blend has a binding agent, like xanthan gum, included!

How should I store leftover donuts?

Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each donut tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Absolutely! Fresh pumpkin puree gives a richer flavor. Just roast your pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and blend it until smooth. Make sure to use the right amount as specified in the recipe.

Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?

Yes! Feel free to fold in some chocolate chips or nuts into the batter before baking for added texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that this will change the overall flavor profile slightly.

Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?

To make these donuts vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use a plant-based oil. Ensure that your sugar is vegan as well.

Can I use mini donut pans instead?

Yes, you can use mini donut pans! Just be sure to adjust the baking time. Mini donuts will typically take about 8-10 minutes to bake.

What are some variations of this donut recipe?

Feel free to experiment! You can add different spices like cardamom or cloves for more complex flavor. Consider topping your donuts with a glaze, sprinkles, or even a drizzle of caramel or chocolate!

Conclusion with light call to action

Now that you have the secret to making soft and fluffy pumpkin spice donuts with a delightful cinnamon sugar coating, it’s time to bring some autumn vibes into your kitchen! This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to put your own spin on it. Whether you enjoy them with your morning coffee or as a delightful after-school snack, these donuts promise to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Don’t forget to share your delicious creations on social media and tag us; we love seeing how you bring these recipes to life! Happy baking and enjoy every scrumptious bite!

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