Irresistible Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

If you’re craving a cozy, mouthwatering treat that captures the essence of autumn, these Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar are exactly what you need. Delight in homemade Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar—perfectly spiced, soft, and coated for an irresistible fall treat that’s as comforting as a warm hug. Each bite offers the perfect blend of pumpkin’s natural sweetness paired with a cinnamon sugar finish that will have you reaching for seconds without hesitation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Fall Flavor: The blend of pumpkin and warming spices creates a classic autumn taste that feels festive and familiar.
• Soft and Tender Texture: These donuts are incredibly fluffy and moist, making them light enough to enjoy any time of day.
• Easy to Make at Home: No complicated techniques or special equipment needed—anyone can whip these up with simple kitchen tools.
• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: A simple, sweet coating that adds just the right amount of crunch and spice to every bite.
• Perfect for Sharing: These donuts make a fantastic treat for gatherings, breakfast, or holiday brunches.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar is straightforward, yet each one plays an important role in flavor, texture, and the overall magical experience of the finished donuts.

• All-Purpose Flour: The base for structure, ensuring the donuts are soft but hold their shape perfectly.
• Pumpkin Puree: Naturally moist and flavorful, this adds the iconic pumpkin taste and tender texture.
• Sugar: A balance of granulated and brown sugar gives sweetness and deeper molasses notes.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients together and contribute to the moist, cake-like crumb.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents make the donuts light and airy.
• Warm Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves combined for that unmistakable pumpkin spice warmth.
• Butter: Melted for richness and a tender crumb.
• Milk: Helps balance the batter and keeps it smooth and easy to mix.
• Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: A simple blend of ground cinnamon and granulated sugar for coating the hot donuts.

Variations for Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar are easy to customize based on dietary needs, ingredient availability, or your flavor preferences. Here are some tasty ideas to inspire your own twist.

• Gluten-Free Version: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a donut everyone can enjoy.
• Vegan Option: Use flax eggs instead of real eggs and a plant-based milk plus vegan butter substitute.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or extra ginger for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness.
• Glaze Instead of Cinnamon Sugar: Drizzle a simple vanilla or maple glaze for a different, decadent finish.
• Nut Topping: Roll the warm donuts in chopped pecans or walnuts mixed with cinnamon sugar for extra crunch.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and warm spices in a large bowl. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices throughout the dough for consistent flavor and lift.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, melted butter, milk, eggs, and sugars. Whisk until smooth and creamy. This wet mixture provides moisture and sweetness that balance the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Combine and Stir

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding them gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts soft and tender rather than dense or tough.

Step 4: Fill the Donut Pan

Lightly grease your donut pan and fill each cavity about 2/3 full with batter. This allows room for the donuts to rise perfectly without overflowing.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake the donuts at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool slightly before the cinnamon sugar coating.

Step 6: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

While the donuts are still warm, brush lightly with melted butter and toss in a plate of cinnamon sugar mixture, pressing gently to adhere. This creates the signature sweet crust that’s full of flavor and texture.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg make a noticeable difference in flavor intensity.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir batter until ingredients are just combined to keep the donuts light and fluffy.
• Grease the Pan Well: This helps the donuts release easily and maintain their perfect shape.
• Coat While Warm: Apply the cinnamon sugar right out of the oven for the best stickiness and flavor adherence.
• Adjust Baking Time: Oven temperatures vary, so check early to avoid drying out your donuts.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

Garnishes

Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or add chopped toasted nuts on top for extra texture and visual appeal that complements the cinnamon sugar coating.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or hot apple cider — the warm beverages elevate the seasonal flavors of the donuts beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the donuts on a rustic wooden board with autumn leaves or edible flowers around for an inviting fall-inspired display perfect for brunch or parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days without losing freshness. Keeping them sealed prevents drying out.

Freezing

Wrap individual donuts in plastic wrap then place in a freezer bag to freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Warm frozen or day-old donuts in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a toaster oven to refresh the soft texture and revive the cinnamon sugar coating’s aroma.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for these donuts?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is a convenient choice and works perfectly in this recipe without altering the flavor or texture.

Are these donuts gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can easily make them gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend of equal measure.

Can I bake these donuts without a donut pan?

If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use muffin tins and slightly adjust baking time, though the shape will be different.

How long do Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar last?

They stay fresh for about 2 days at room temperature, but freezing is great for longer storage.

Can I use a glaze instead of cinnamon sugar coating?

Yes! A vanilla, maple, or cream cheese glaze pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin spice base and provides a different sweet finish.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like homemade Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar to celebrate the flavors of fall in the coziest way possible. Whether you’re enjoying them alongside your morning coffee or sharing with family and friends, this recipe brings warmth, sweetness, and that special seasonal magic into your kitchen. I hope you try these donuts soon and fall in love with every bite!

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