Go Back
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s a certain magic that envelops the season of fall. It’s a time filled with cozy sweaters, warm drinks, and the delightful scent of pumpkin spice wafting through kitchens everywhere. Among the myriad of pumpkin-flavored treats, Cozy Baked Pumpkin Spice Donuts stand out as a quintessential autumn indulgence. These donuts embody the rich flavors of pure pumpkin puree and a blend of warm spices, creating a deliciously comforting experience that is perfect for any occasion.

Baked Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Warm up your autumn days with these Cozy Baked Pumpkin Spice Donuts, perfect for enjoying during crisp mornings or festive gatherings. Made with wholesome pumpkin puree and a blend of comforting spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, these baked treats are both delicious and healthier than traditional fried donuts. Discover the joy of baking from scratch with simple ingredients and easy steps that fill your kitchen with delightful scents. Perfectly indulgent for fall!

Ingredients
  

For the Donuts:

1 cup pure pumpkin puree (ensure it’s not pumpkin pie filling)

1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce

1/4 cup pure maple syrup

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup milk (or your choice of plant-based milk)

For the Topping:

1/4 cup melted butter (or melted coconut oil for a dairy-free option)

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a donut pan by greasing it with non-stick spray or lightly brushing it with oil.

    Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, unsweetened applesauce, maple syrup, packed brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and uniformly blended.

      Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and salt until well mixed.

        Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the bowl of wet ingredients. Gently fold the mixture together using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! If the batter appears too thick, add the milk gradually until you achieve a smooth consistency.

          Fill the Pan: Use a spoon or piping bag to fill each cavity of the donut pan about two-thirds full with the batter. This ensures they have room to rise without spilling over.

            Bake: Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. The donuts are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges are lightly golden.

              Cool: Once baked, remove the donut pan from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Carefully turn the donuts out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

                Prepare the Topping: As the donuts cool, mix the granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice together in a small bowl for the topping.

                  Coat the Donuts: Once the donuts have cooled, dip the tops into the melted butter, allowing any excess to drip off. Next, coat them in the sugar-spice mixture until fully covered.

                    Serve: Indulge in your delightful baked pumpkin spice donuts warm or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | Yields 12 delicious donuts