Easy Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Glaze

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through your kitchen. If you’re a busy person juggling work, family, and social obligations, the thought of whipping up homemade treats may feel daunting. But fear not! With this Easy Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Glaze recipe, you can indulge in a delightful fall-themed treat that is not only simple to make but also brings a comforting touch of seasonal joy to your busy life. Imagine coming home to a tray of freshly baked donuts, topped with a luscious glaze—pure bliss!

Why You Will Love This Easy Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Glaze

Imagine starting your weekend morning with the family gathered around the kitchen table, sipping coffee and enjoying homemade donuts that are bursting with flavor. This recipe for Easy Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Glaze caters to such heartwarming moments, bringing a touch of homemade joy to your busy life. As the days get shorter and the weather turns cooler, these donuts are the perfect way to embrace the spirit of the season.

Not only are these donuts delicious, but they’re also surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients typically found in your pantry, this recipe is perfect for those busy mornings when you crave something homemade but haven’t a lot of time. You can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes from start to finish, allowing you to savor life’s sweetest moments without the stress. Plus, they make for a fantastic afternoon snack or an impressive dessert for gatherings!

The delightful pumpkin spice flavor combined with the warm cinnamon glaze creates a treat that evokes feelings of nostalgia and comfort, making them particularly beloved during the autumn months. These donuts are also guilt-free indulgence because they are baked, not fried, making them a slightly healthier option to enjoy. So get ready to dive into the irresistible world of pumpkin spice, and let’s bring some sweetness to your busy life!

Practical Tips / Cooking Tips

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: While you can always opt for canned pumpkin, making your own puree from fresh pumpkins can elevate the flavor.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently mix until just combined to ensure your donuts remain soft and fluffy.
• Coat Immediately: For the best glaze adherence, coat your donuts while they’re still warm. This helps the glaze stick better and adds a beautiful sheen!
• Use a Donut Pan: Investing in a silicone or metal donut pan makes removal easier and helps achieve perfect donut shapes.

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

These Easy Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Glaze offer a nutritious twist on a classic treat. Here’s what you’ll gain when you indulge in these seasonal delights:

• Pumpkin: Packed with vitamins A and C, pumpkin supports your immune system and contributes to eye health.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Using whole wheat flour increases fiber content, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
• Spices: The spices used in pumpkin spice—cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger—are known for their antioxidant properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
• Lower Sugar Option: By reducing the sugar in the glaze or opting for natural sweeteners, you can make these donuts even healthier.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients

Ingredient	Substitution Options
1 cup pumpkin puree	Mashed sweet potatoes
1/2 cup granulated sugar	Coconut sugar, maple syrup (adjust the liquid in the recipe)
1/2 cup brown sugar	Coconut sugar or honey (use less for honey)
1/2 cup plain yogurt	Applesauce or buttermilk
2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat)	Gluten-free flour blend
2 teaspoons baking powder	Homemade baking powder (1 part baking soda + 2 parts cream of tartar)
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice	1/2 teaspoon each of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt	No substitutions necessary
1/2 cup powdered sugar	Maple sugar or stevia (for a low-calorie option)
2 tablespoons milk	Almond milk or any plant-based milk

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your donut pan well to prevent sticking.
2. Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and yogurt. Whisk these together until smooth and well incorporated.
3. Sift dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This helps prevent clumping and ensures even distribution of the ingredients.
4. Combine mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; small lumps are okay!
5. Fill the donut pan: Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill the donut pan about 2/3 full with batter.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
8. Make the glaze: While the donuts cool, prepare your glaze by mixing powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until you achieve a smooth consistency.
9. Glaze the donuts: Once the donuts are cool, dip the tops into the glaze and let the excess drip off before placing them back on the rack. You can sprinkle additional cinnamon if desired.
10. Serve and enjoy: Your pumpkin spice donuts are ready to be served! Enjoy them warm or store them in an airtight container for later.

FAQ

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 ratio for the best results.

How should I store leftover donuts?

Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can refrigerate them for longer storage, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

Is it possible to skip the glaze?

Yes, if you prefer a less sweet option, you can enjoy the donuts plain or dust them lightly with powdered sugar instead of glazing them.

Can I freeze pumpkin spice donuts?

Yes, these donuts freeze well! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize your pumpkin spice donuts to suit your taste! Here are a few variations you might consider:

• Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Spices: Add a half cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a delicious chocolatey twist.
• Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter or sprinkle them on top before glazing.
• Coconut Flavor: Add shredded coconut to the batter or sprinkle on top for a tropical touch.
• Different Glazes: Experiment with various glazes, such as maple or caramel, for unique flavor profiles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Easy Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Glaze are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall while satisfying your sweet tooth. With their easy preparation and customizable options, they are perfect for busy individuals and families alike. So why not gather your ingredients and bake a batch today? You’ll be rewarded with scrumptious donuts that not only taste amazing but also fill your kitchen with the cozy aroma of autumn. Don’t forget to share your experience and photos with us—we’d love to see how your donuts turned out!

Print