Name: Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze for Cozy Fall Mornings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups All-purpose flour (Use gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option.); 2 teaspoons Baking powder; 1 teaspoon Pumpkin pie spice; 0.5 teaspoon Kosher salt; 0.5 teaspoon Baking soda; 0.5 cups Unsalted butter (melted) (Use dairy-free butter for vegan option.); 0.5 cups Light brown sugar; 2 large Eggs (Use flax seeds or applesauce for egg-free alternative.); 0.5 cups Canned pumpkin puree (Fresh pumpkin puree can be used as a replacement.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 0.25 cups Maple syrup; 1 cups Powdered sugar

The cool breeze of fall sweeps in, bringing with it a cozy urge to bake—especially when it comes to this recipe for Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze. The moment I pull these delightful little treats from the oven, the sweet scent of pumpkin pie spice dances through my kitchen, instantly conjuring memories of autumn gatherings. These donuts are not just a delicious nod to the season; they are also an easy and healthy alternative to heavier fried options, perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack. With simple ingredients and quick prep, they are as pleasing to make as they are to eat. Plus, they come with the option to adjust for gluten-free or vegan diets, ensuring everyone can indulge. Ready to experience fall in every bite? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why are these Baked Pumpkin Donuts irresistible?

Comforting Fall Flavors: Immerse yourself in the cozy essence of autumn with every bite of these soft pumpkin donuts, enhanced by warm maple glaze.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal hassle, this recipe is perfect for home bakers of all skill levels.

Diet-Friendly Options: Whether you’re gluten-free or vegan, you can enjoy these donuts. Simple substitutions ensure everyone can share in the deliciousness!

Make-Ahead Potential: Bake a batch and freeze them without glaze for a quick morning treat; just thaw and dip in the maple glaze for fresh flavor anytime.

Versatile Treat: Pair them with your favorite spiced chai or Baked Lemon Butter for a delightful afternoon snack that warms the soul.

You’ll love how these Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze bring the flavors of fall into your kitchen effortlessly!

Baked Pumpkin Donuts Ingredients

For the Donuts
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure and texture for light yet firm donuts. Substitution: Use gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free donuts.
• Baking powder – A leavening agent that helps the donuts rise, contributing to a soft texture.
• Pumpkin pie spice – Adds a warm, comforting flavor, essential for a seasonal touch.
• Kosher salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the glaze.
• Baking soda – Reacts with the pumpkin to ensure a good rise in the donuts.
• Unsalted butter (melted) – Adds richness and moisture to the donuts. Substitution: Use dairy-free butter for a vegan option.
• Light brown sugar – Sweetens the donuts, adding a hint of molasses flavor.
• Eggs – Provide structure and bind ingredients for a tender crumb. Substitution: Use flax seeds or applesauce for egg-free alternative.
• Canned pumpkin puree – The primary ingredient, contributing moisture and authentic pumpkin flavor. Substitution: Fresh pumpkin puree can be used as a replacement.
• Vanilla extract – Adds depth and a touch of sweetness to the donuts.

For the Maple Glaze
• Maple syrup – Sweetens the glaze and adds rich flavor.
• Powdered sugar – Used in the glaze for sweetness and thickness.

Feel free to collect the ingredients and prepare to enjoy these delectable Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and greasing your donut pan with a light coat of non-stick spray. This ensures your donuts will release easily after baking. As the oven warms, gather your ingredients and mix your dry components, setting the stage for a delightful baking experience with these Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 and ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon of baking soda. This dry mixture forms the backbone of your donuts, giving them the necessary texture and flavor. Look for a well-blended mixture before moving on to the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter, and add 1 cup of light brown sugar. Mix them together until smooth and creamy. Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, incorporating ½ cup of canned pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition. You should have a cohesive, wet batter, rich in flavor and inviting.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet batter. Using a spatula, gently fold the two mixtures together until just combined, being careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. This is key to achieving tender Baked Pumpkin Donuts, so take your time and enjoy the delightful aroma of the pumpkin-soaked batter.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full to allow for rising. You can use a piping bag or a spoon for this step. Smooth the tops lightly and ensure an even distribution. This preparation will lead to beautifully shaped donuts once they’re baked to perfection.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Place the filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as they bake. The enticing scent of pumpkin and spices will fill your kitchen, evoking cozy autumn vibes.

Step 7: Cool Before Glazing
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Carefully turn the donuts out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important for the donuts’ texture; they need to be cool to the touch before dipping them into the maple glaze, ensuring a beautifully sticky finish.

Step 8: Make the Maple Glaze
As your donuts cool, prepare the maple glaze by reducing ¼ cup of maple syrup in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Remove it from the heat, then whisk in 2 tablespoons of butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and 1 cup of sifted powdered sugar until smooth and glossy.

Step 9: Glaze the Donuts
Once the donuts are cool, dip the tops of each donut into the warm maple glaze, allowing the excess to drip off before placing them back on the rack. The glaze should create a lovely, shiny coating that enhances the flavors of your Baked Pumpkin Donuts. Let them rest for a few minutes until the glaze sets.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Now that your Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are ready, serve them fresh with a warm beverage of your choice. These delightful treats are perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack, bringing a burst of cozy fall flavors to your table. Enjoy the happiness they bring!

What to Serve with Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

The warm aroma of pumpkin and maple fills the air, inviting you to create a comforting autumn spread.

Spiced Chai Tea: This warm and fragrant tea effortlessly complements the sweetness of the donuts while enhancing their cozy flavors.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A burst of fresh fruit provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the donuts, adding bright flavors and crunch.
Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a delightful breakfast or snack that balances richness with creaminess.
Coffee or Espresso: The bold, rich notes of coffee pair beautifully with the sweet maple glaze, creating a perfect breakfast duo.
Maple Butter: A simple spread of maple butter on the side enhances the donuts’ flavor while providing an indulgent, sweet addition.
Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an airy texture, elevating your pumpkin donut experience.
Roasted Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top or on the side add crunch and a lovely nutty flavor, pairing perfectly with autumn’s bounty.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A touch of dark chocolate melted on top offers a rich contrast to the sweetness, creating a decadent treat.
Hot Apple Cider: This cozy drink perfectly complements the flavors of fall, making every bite of your donuts even more delightful.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a sweet dessert twist, serving a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside warm donuts creates an irresistible combination.

Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful variations that bring out even more flavors and accommodate different dietary needs in your baked pumpkin donuts!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously tender donut that’s perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegan: Swap out the eggs for 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce and use dairy-free butter in the batter for a fully vegan treat.
Spice Swap: Replace pumpkin pie spice with cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist that adds warmth and comfort.
Nutty Crunch: Top your glazed donuts with chopped pecans or walnuts for an added texture that complements the sweetness beautifully.
No Glaze: If you’re in the mood for something less sweet, bake the donuts without glaze or toss them in cinnamon sugar for a delightful dusting.
Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned for a fresher flavor. It gives the donuts a more vibrant, authentic pumpkin taste.
Maple Flavor Burst: Enhance the maple glaze by adding a splash of maple extract for those who can’t get enough of that sweet, syrupy flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the glazed donuts for a rich addition that pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin base.

With these enticing variations, you can make your Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze a personalized treat for everyone!

Expert Tips for Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Thick Batter: Ensure your batter is thick enough; if it’s runny, add more flour. This helps your baked pumpkin donuts hold their shape beautifully.
Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, so treat the batter delicately!
Cool Properly: Allow the donuts to cool fully before glazing. This prevents the glaze from melting and ensures a lovely, shiny finish.
Storage Solution: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They taste best when fresh, but can be reheated briefly for a delightful treat later!
Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend. It allows everyone to enjoy these delicious baked pumpkin donuts with maple glaze!

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the donut batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the wet and dry ingredients together, cover the bowl tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let the batter sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before filling the donut pan. Additionally, you can bake the donuts in advance and store them without glaze for up to 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature. To enjoy fresh flavor, glaze them just before serving, ensuring they stay moist and delicious! These time-saving methods keep your mornings stress-free while delivering delightful results.

Storage Tips for Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

Room Temperature: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked donuts without glaze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable bag, where they can last up to 3 months.

Thawing: To enjoy, thaw the donuts overnight in the fridge or at room temperature. Reheat briefly in the microwave or toaster oven for a fresh taste.

Reheating: If you have glazed donuts, reheat briefly in the microwave (about 10-15 seconds) to soften them, but avoid overheating to preserve the glaze’s texture.

Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin should I use for the donuts?
You can use either canned pumpkin puree or fresh pumpkin puree. Canned pumpkin is typically more convenient and has a consistent flavor, while fresh pumpkin can offer a brighter taste. If using fresh, make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin before adding it to your batter for the best results!

How should I store leftover baked pumpkin donuts?
Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 days. This helps maintain their soft, moist texture. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months; just make sure to freeze them without glaze to preserve their quality.

Can I freeze baked pumpkin donuts?
Absolutely! To freeze, place your baked pumpkin donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then transfer the donuts to a resealable freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature. For the best taste, reheat them briefly before glazing!

What if my donut batter is too runny?
If you notice your batter is too runny, don’t worry! Simply add a little more flour, about 1 tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a thicker consistency. It should hold its shape better when spooned into the donut pan. This step is crucial for achieving those delightful, fluffy donuts.

Are these baked pumpkin donuts suitable for vegans?
Yes! To make these donuts vegan, you can substitute the eggs with 1 tablespoon of ground flax seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. Allow it to sit for a few minutes until it becomes gel-like. Use dairy-free butter in place of regular butter for a completely vegan treat.

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
Absolutely! I recommend using a gluten-free flour blend to substitute the all-purpose flour. This will ensure that your donuts maintain the right texture while still being safe for those with gluten sensitivities. Just keep an eye on the batter and adjust with the right amount of flour if needed.