Pumpkin Donuts

These Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of autumn. Ideal for any occasion, from cozy coffee mornings to festive gatherings, these baked donuts offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried options. With their fluffy texture and sweet maple glaze, they are sure to please everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Choice: These donuts are baked instead of fried, reducing fat and calories while still being delicious.
• Quick & Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 21 minutes, you can enjoy fresh donuts in no time!
• Perfectly Portion-Controlled: Each batch makes 12 mini donuts, making it easy to satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting flavor that’s perfect for fall.
• Kid-Friendly Activity: Making these donuts can be a fun cooking project for families to enjoy together.

Tools and Preparation

To make the process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mini donut pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Piping bag
• Wire rack
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Mini donut pan: This special pan ensures your donuts hold their shape while baking, giving you that classic donut look.
• Piping bag: Using a piping bag helps you fill each donut cavity evenly, ensuring consistent size and texture.
• Wire rack: A wire rack allows air to circulate around the donuts as they cool, preventing sogginess.

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Ingredients

These Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are ideal for portion control, are low calorie, and have less fat than fried donuts. They are baked, quick and easy to prepare, and quite yummy, making the perfect Autumn coffee time treat.

For the Donuts

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup oat flour (to make oat flour, grind well old-fashioned oats in a food processor or blender until getting a fine flour texture)
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg (at room temperature)
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup oil
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin or pumpkin puree (it is the same as a mashed pumpkin. There are no spices or sugar added.)

For the Maple Glaze

• 1¼ cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon dark corn syrup (or Karo dark corn syrup)
• ½ tablespoon water
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease a mini donut pan with cooking spray and set aside.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine dry ingredients:
1. Add the flours.
2. Stir in the pumpkin pie spice.
3. Mix in ground cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the egg.
2. Add light brown sugar and oil.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and canned pumpkin until well combined.

Step 4: Make Donut Batter

Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients:
– Whisk until just combined to form a thick donut batter.

Step 5: Fill Donut Pan

Transfer batter into a large piping bag:
– Pipe into greased donut pan, filling about halfway full.

Step 6: Bake Donuts

Bake for about 6-7 minutes:
– Donuts should spring back when touched or pass the toothpick test.

Step 7: Cool Donuts

Transfer baked donuts to a wire rack:
– Allow them to cool completely before glazing.

Step 8: Prepare Maple Glaze

In a small bowl:
– Whisk powdered sugar with maple syrup, dark corn syrup, water, and ground cinnamon until smooth.
– Dip tops of cooled donuts into glaze until well coated. Let rest on wire rack until glaze sets completely.

Now your delicious Pumpkin Donuts are ready to be enjoyed! Perfectly moist with an irresistible maple glaze—these treats will surely become a favorite!

How to Serve Pumpkin Donuts

Serving your Pumpkin Donuts can elevate your coffee time experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy these baked treats.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pair your donuts with a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a warm and comforting combination.
• Tea: A spiced chai or herbal tea complements the pumpkin flavors beautifully.
• Cider: Hot apple cider adds a festive touch, especially in the fall.

As a Dessert

• Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a deliciously indulgent dessert.
• Whipped Cream: Top each donut with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
• Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote can enhance the autumn flavor profile, making it even more enjoyable.

At Gatherings

• Dessert Table: Arrange your donuts on a platter as part of a dessert table at parties or gatherings.
• Gift Bags: Package them in decorative bags to share with friends and family during the holidays.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Donuts

To achieve the best results with your Pumpkin Donuts, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring ingredients like eggs are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep your donuts light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts.
• Fill Pan Correctly: Fill the donut pan only halfway to allow room for rising without overflowing.
• Check Doneness Early: Keep an eye on baking time; check doneness around 6 minutes to prevent overbaking.
• Cool Before Glazing: Allow the donuts to cool completely before glazing for better adherence and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Donuts

Enjoying your Pumpkin Donuts alongside other dishes can enhance their flavors. Here are some fantastic side dishes to consider.

1. Apple Slices: Fresh, crisp apple slices bring a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft donuts.
2. Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses pairs well, balancing sweet and savory flavors.
3. Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fruits for a wholesome side that complements the sweetness of donuts.
4. Carrots Sticks and Hummus: Crunchy carrots dipped in hummus offer a healthy contrast to the rich donuts.
5. Trail Mix: A handful of nutty trail mix adds texture and is easy to prepare for snacking alongside donuts.
6. Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad brings brightness and freshness, making it an ideal side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin donuts can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold eggs can affect the batter’s consistency. Always use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense donuts. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science. Use precise measurements for flour and liquids to ensure perfect results every time.
• Skipping the cooling step: Letting donuts cool before glazing ensures the glaze adheres well. Skipping this can lead to a messy finish.
• Using stale spices: Fresh spices enhance flavor. Always check your pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon for freshness before using.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Donuts

• Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Donuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat donuts for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Microwave one donut at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet on low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Curious about making pumpkin donuts? Here are some frequently asked questions to help you out.

How do I make my Pumpkin Donuts fluffier?

To achieve fluffier pumpkin donuts, ensure you don’t overmix the batter. Mixing just until combined helps retain air bubbles for fluffiness.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, make sure it’s cooked and pureed smoothly without added spices or sugars.

What can I substitute for all-purpose flour in Pumpkin Donuts?

You can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend as substitutes. Adjustments may be needed in liquid ingredients based on the flour type.

Are Pumpkin Donuts suitable for breakfast?

Yes! These baked pumpkin donuts make a delightful breakfast option, offering a sweet treat with fewer calories than traditional fried ones.

How long do Pumpkin Donuts last?

When stored properly, pumpkin donuts last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various spices or toppings like nuts or seeds. Enjoy these treats for breakfast or as an afternoon snack!