Pumpkin Donuts

These Pumpkin Donuts are a delightful treat that captures the essence of autumn. Perfect for coffee time or as a sweet snack, these baked donuts are not only quick and easy to make but also healthier than traditional fried options. With their warm spices and a luscious maple glaze, they stand out as a must-try recipe for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These pumpkin donuts come together in no time, making them ideal for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
• Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, they have fewer calories and less fat while still being deliciously satisfying.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon makes these donuts a perfect fit for any fall-themed event or cozy get-together.
• Portion Control: Made in a mini donut pan, these treats are the perfect size for a sweet indulgence without overdoing it.
• Maple Glaze Magic: The rich maple glaze adds an irresistible sweetness that perfectly complements the pumpkin flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make these pumpkin donuts, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mini donut pan
• Cooking spray
• Mixing bowls (medium and small)
• Whisk
• Large piping bag
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Why These Tools Matter

• Mini donut pan: This specialized pan shapes your donuts perfectly while allowing them to bake evenly.
• Piping bag: Using a piping bag makes it easy to fill the donut cavities without making a mess.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine your ingredients thoroughly, ensuring your batter is smooth and well-mixed.

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.

Dry Ingredients

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup oat flour
• 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

Wet Ingredients

• 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

Maple Glaze Ingredients

• 1¼ cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon 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 your mini donut pan with cooking spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Combine the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, oat flour, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Whisk until evenly mixed. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the wet ingredients: egg, light brown sugar, oil, vanilla extract, and canned pumpkin until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients:
1. Mix gently until combined to form a thick donut batter.

Step 5: Fill Donut Pan

Transfer the batter into a large piping bag:
1. Pipe the batter into each cavity of the greased donut pan until filled about halfway full.

Step 6: Bake Donuts

Bake in the preheated oven for about 6-7 minutes:
– Check doneness by pressing lightly on top; they should spring back or use a toothpick inserted into a donut—it should come out clean.

Step 7: Cool Down

Once baked:
– Transfer the donuts to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare Maple Glaze

While cooling:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, dark corn syrup, water, and ground cinnamon until smooth.
2. Place the rack of cooled donuts over a lined baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 9: Glaze Donuts

Dip each donut top into the maple glaze:
– Ensure they are well-coated before letting them rest on the rack until the glaze sets completely.

How to Serve Pumpkin Donuts

Serving Pumpkin Donuts can be a delightful experience, especially when paired with the right accompaniments. These mini treats are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, perfect for any occasion or mood.

With Coffee

• Pairing pumpkin donuts with a warm cup of coffee enhances their flavors. The rich taste of coffee complements the sweetness of the donuts.

As a Snack

• Enjoy them as a mid-afternoon snack. Their portion control size makes them easy to grab without overindulging.

With Whipped Cream

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top for a creamy texture that balances the denser donut.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• A light drizzle of melted chocolate adds extra sweetness and visual appeal, making them even more irresistible.

At Fall Gatherings

• Present these donuts at autumn parties or gatherings. They are festive and will surely impress your guests.

On a Dessert Platter

• Include them on a dessert platter alongside other treats. Their vibrant color adds beauty to any spread.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Donuts

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh baking powder and spices will elevate the flavor and texture of your donuts.
• Don’t Overmix: Mixing just until combined ensures light and fluffy donuts, preventing them from becoming dense.
• Check Oven Temperature: An accurate oven temperature is crucial for proper baking. Use an oven thermometer if needed.
• Cool Before Glazing: Allowing the donuts to cool completely before glazing prevents the glaze from melting off.
• Pipe Carefully: When filling the donut pan, pipe evenly to ensure uniform sizes for even cooking.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices or add extras like nutmeg for personalized flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Donuts

Pumpkin Donuts can be paired with various side dishes that complement their sweet flavor profile. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Apple Slices: Fresh apple slices provide a crisp contrast to the soft texture of the donuts.
2. Yogurt Parfait: A yogurt parfait with granola and berries adds creaminess and crunch that pairs well.
3. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses offers savory balance against the sweetness of pumpkin donuts.
4. Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea harmonize beautifully with pumpkin flavors.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings freshness and acidity, balancing out the sweetness of the donuts.
6. Hot Chocolate: Rich hot chocolate pairs perfectly for a cozy treat during chilly days.
7. Nuts Mix: A mix of nuts provides crunchiness, enhancing texture while offering healthy fats.
8. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: These sweet chips can add fun crunch and additional cinnamon flavor alongside your donuts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin donuts can be simple, but there are a few common errors that can impact your results. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold eggs or canned pumpkin can lead to uneven mixing. Always use ingredients at room temperature for the best texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make your donuts tough. Mix just until combined to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
• Not measuring flour accurately: Too much flour can result in dry donuts. Use the spoon-and-level method for precise measurements.
• Skipping the cooling step: Glazing warm donuts can cause the glaze to melt away. Allow your donuts to cool completely before glazing for a perfect finish.
• Using stale spices: Old spices can diminish flavor. Always check your spice freshness, especially pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon, for maximum taste.

Storage and Reheating

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 freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Pumpkin Donuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place donuts on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat each donut on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat to warm each donut gently, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Pumpkin Donuts healthier?

You can reduce sugar and use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This will maintain flavor while enhancing nutrition.

Can I customize my Pumpkin Donuts?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for added flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have oat flour?

You can make oat flour by blending rolled oats in a food processor until fine, or substitute with more all-purpose flour if needed.

How long do Pumpkin Donuts last?

When stored properly, they last about 3 days in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With options for customization and easy storage, they are perfect for autumn gatherings or cozy mornings at home. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful treats!

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