Pumpkin Donuts

Pumpkin Donuts are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall season. These baked pumpkin donuts with maple glaze are not only delicious but also healthier than their fried counterparts. They are quick to prepare and ideal for portion control, making them a great snack for both kids and adults. Enjoy them with coffee or as an afternoon pick-me-up!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Option: These donuts are baked instead of fried, resulting in lower calories and fat.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have fresh donuts in no time.
• Perfect for Autumn: The pumpkin spice flavor makes these donuts a seasonal favorite.
• Family-Friendly: Easy enough for kids to help with, making them a fun family activity.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or spices to make them uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

To create these tasty Pumpkin Donuts, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mini donut pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Piping bag
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Why These Tools Matter

• Mini donut pan: Helps shape the donuts perfectly and ensures even baking.
• Piping bag: Makes filling the donut pan easy and mess-free.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing ingredients smoothly without lumps.

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

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Oat flour
3. Pumpkin pie spice
4. Ground cinnamon
5. Baking powder
6. Baking soda
7. Salt

Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together these wet ingredients until smooth:
1. Egg
2. Light brown sugar
3. Oil
4. Vanilla extract
5. Canned pumpkin

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and whisk until well combined, forming a thick donut batter.

Step 5: Pipe into Pan

Transfer the batter into a large piping bag. Pipe it into the greased donut pan, filling each cavity about halfway full.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Bake for about 6-7 minutes or until the donuts spring back when touched or when a toothpick inserted comes out clean without crumbs.

Step 7: Cool Down

Transfer the baked donuts to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare Maple Glaze

While cooling, prepare the maple glaze by whisking together:
– Powdered sugar
– Pure maple syrup
– Dark corn syrup
– Water
– Ground cinnamon

Place the rack of cooled donuts over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 9: Glaze the Donuts

Dip the top of each donut into the maple glaze, turning to coat well. Let them rest on the rack until the glaze sets completely.

How to Serve Pumpkin Donuts

Serving pumpkin donuts is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few simple ideas. Whether for a cozy family gathering or a festive get-together, these treats can be dressed up in various ways to impress your guests.

With Coffee

• A classic pairing, pumpkin donuts and coffee create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Choose your favorite brew, whether it’s a rich espresso or a smooth latte.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each donut for an extra indulgent treat. A sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate this simple addition.

Sprinkled with Nuts

• Chopped pecans or walnuts can add crunch and flavor. Simply sprinkle them on top of the glazed donuts while the glaze is still wet for better adhesion.

Served Warm

• Enjoying these donuts fresh out of the oven enhances their flavor and texture. Warm donuts can be more inviting and comforting, especially on chilly days.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair your pumpkin donuts with sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast. Their crisp texture complements the soft, sweet donuts perfectly.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Donuts

To achieve the best pumpkin donuts, follow these simple tips that ensure they turn out fluffy and flavorful every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Eggs and other ingredients mix better when at room temperature, creating a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ones to avoid tough donuts. Overmixing develops gluten, which can lead to dense results.
• Fill the Pan Properly: Filling the donut pan halfway allows room for rising without overflowing. This helps maintain their shape and texture.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test if they’re done baking. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Allowing the donuts to cool ensures that the glaze sets properly without melting off.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Donuts

Pairing your pumpkin donuts with complementary side dishes can enhance your overall experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea harmonize beautifully with pumpkin flavors, making it an excellent drink choice.
2. Cinnamon Applesauce: A side of homemade cinnamon applesauce adds moisture and sweetness that blends well with the donuts.
3. Cream Cheese Dip: A creamy dip made from softened cream cheese mixed with vanilla adds richness that pairs nicely with pumpkin.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fruits creates a refreshing balance to the richness of the donuts.
5. Spiced Hot Chocolate: A cup of spiced hot chocolate offers warmth and sweetness, perfect for dipping or sipping alongside your treats.
6. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over pumpkin donuts provides an extra layer of flavor that many will enjoy.
7. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and brightness to your spread, balancing out the sweetness of the donuts.
8. Maple Syrup Dipping Sauce: For those who love maple flavors, serving pure maple syrup as a dip enhances every bite!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Donuts, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold ingredients can lead to dense donuts. Always ensure your egg and other liquids are at room temperature for the best texture.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make the donuts tough. Mix just until combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can lead to undercooked or burnt donuts. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Not Greasing the Pan Properly: Failing to grease your donut pan can result in sticking. Use a non-stick cooking spray generously for easy release.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Dipping warm donuts in glaze can cause it to melt off. Allow the donuts to cool completely before glazing for a perfect finish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pumpkin Donuts in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Donuts

• Place cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container, where they will last up to 2 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Donuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat one donut at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place a donut in a skillet over low heat, covering it for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Pumpkin Donuts?

Pumpkin Donuts are baked treats made with pumpkin puree, spices, and flour. They’re fluffy, flavorful, and perfect for autumn.

Can I customize my Pumpkin Donuts?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even different spices like nutmeg for personalization.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Donuts are done?

The donuts are ready when they spring back after touching or when a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Can I make these Pumpkin Donuts gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well in baking.

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Donuts are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their light texture and delightful flavor make them an excellent treat any time of year. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins or toppings!

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