Fall is a season that brings to mind cozy sweaters, crisp leaves, and delicious flavors. Baked pumpkin spice donuts capture that essence beautifully. These treats are soft, moist, and filled with rich pumpkin flavor and warm spices. And when you add a brown sugar glaze, you're taking them to an even higher level. We make these every year during the Fall season.

In this post, you’ll find a simple recipe along with valuable tips for making these delcious donuts. Hint, they are way easier than you think.

Why Choose Baked Over Fried?

Baked pumpkin spice donuts are not only a lighter option, but they also present a healthier choice compared to a traditional fried donut. For instance, a fried donut can contain over 300 calories and more than 15 grams of fat each. Where a baked pumpkin spice donut typically has around 150 calories with approximately 6 grams of fat, helping you enjoy a treat without excessive guilt. I also susubsitute coconute sugar in a lot of my bakinhg including these donuts which make them even better for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these key ingredients before you start baking:

For the Donuts:

• 1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 3/4 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

• ½ tsp salt

• 2 large egg

• 1/3 cup milk

• 1/2 cup avocado oil (or melted coconut oil)

• 1 cup pumpkin purée

  
  

Brown Sugar Glaze:

• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar

• 1 tbsp butter

• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 1/2 cups powder confectioners sugar

• Pinch of salt

These ingredients create a delicious flavor profile that embodies the spirit of autumn with every bite.

Making the Donuts

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C)

   
   

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Whisk these together until fully combined.

   
   

3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the pumpkin puree, egg, milk, and vegetable oil. Ensure the mixture is smooth with no lumps remaining.

   
   

4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Be gentle to avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense donuts. Your batter should remain thick and slightly lumpy.

   
   

5. Fill the Donut Pan: Lightly spray a donut pan with cooking spray for easy removal. Fill a gallon size bag and snip the corner to pipe batter in, or spoon in to fill each cavity about ¾ full.

   
   

6. Bake: Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 10-11 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.

   
   

7. Cool Completely: Let the donuts cool completely before glazing. This ensures a smooth application of the glaze.

   
   

Preparing the brown sugar Glaze

1. Mix: In a a medium sauce pan combine the milk, butter, and brown sugar, whisk until smooth, turn off heat, whisky in vanilla and confectioner sugar until no lumps remain.

   
   

2. Glaze the Donuts: Once the donuts are cool, dip the tops into the glaze o

   
   

3. Let it Set: Allow the donuts to sit for a few minutes to let the glaze set. This step ensures a beautiful finish.

Tips for the Best Baked Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results every time:

• Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing can toughen your donuts. Always fold gently until the ingredients just come together.

  
  

• Check for Doneness Early: Since oven temperatures can vary, start checking for doneness a couple of minutes before the recommended bake time.

  
  

• Adjust Spices to Taste: Don't hesitate to experiment with the spices. Some people love a spicier donut, while others prefer a more subdued spice profile.

  
  

Serving Suggestions

These donuts are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate the experience even further with these serving ideas:

• Coffee or Tea Pairing: Enjoy a warm donut with a cup of coffee or flavored tea for a relaxing experience. A cinnamon chai could complement the spices beautifully.

  
  

• Ice Cream Delight: For a decadent dessert, place a warm donut next to a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzle with extra maple syrup.

  
  

• Fresh Fruit Side: Brighten up your plate with fresh apple slices, pears, or mixed berries. The natural sweetness and acidity of the fruit balance the richness of the donuts.

  
  

A Sweet Baking Adventure Awaits

Baked pumpkin spice donuts are a delightful way to embrace the flavors of fall. They're simple to make, and they provide a pleasing, guilt-free indulgence that everyone will LOVE.

These donuts will quickly become a go-to recipe in your home. Whether you serve them at breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon treat, they are sure to bring joy to your table.

Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create something truly delicious. Your taste buds are in for a wonderful surprise!

Happy baking!