Description
These Spiced Pumpkin Donuts with Sweet Maple Glaze are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. Soft, moist, and packed with warm spices, these baked donuts are a healthier alternative to fried ones and are incredibly easy to make. Topped with a luscious maple glaze, they’re an irresistible indulgence for breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave a comforting, seasonal delight.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
For the Maple Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed)
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan thoroughly with cooking spray or butter to prevent the donuts from sticking.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and ground ginger. Ensure that all spices are evenly distributed.
Step 3: In a separate, large mixing bowl, combine the wet ingredients: canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, buttermilk, eggs, and melted unsalted butter. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough donuts. Stir until there are no large lumps remaining.
Step 5: Spoon the donut batter into a large piping bag or a ziplock bag. If using a ziplock bag, cut off one of the bottom corners. Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full. This ensures the donuts have room to rise without overflowing.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into one of the donuts comes out clean. The donuts should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched.
Step 7: Remove the donut pan from the oven and let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: While the donuts are cooling, prepare the maple glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and pure maple syrup. Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the glaze reaches the desired consistency. It should be smooth, pourable, but not too thin.
Step 9: Once the donuts are completely cool, dip each donut into the maple glaze, coating the top evenly. Place the glazed donuts back on the wire rack to allow the excess glaze to drip off and set. The glaze will harden slightly as it cools.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Spiced Pumpkin Donut recipe will become a fall favorite! It’s easy to follow, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. The donuts are incredibly moist, thanks to the pumpkin puree and buttermilk, while the blend of spices adds a warm, comforting taste. Baking them instead of frying makes them a healthier option, and the maple glaze provides the perfect touch of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these donuts warm or at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Arrange them on a platter for a festive brunch or breakfast gathering.
- Dust them with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Tips
- Use high-quality pure maple syrup for the best flavor in the glaze.
- Allow the donuts to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
- For a richer flavor, use brown butter instead of melted unsalted butter in the donut batter.
- Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes
Nutrition Information
Calories: Approximately 260 kcal per donut (values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes).
Protein: Approximately 4g per donut.
Sodium: Approximately 200mg per donut.
Conclusion
These Spiced Pumpkin Donuts with Sweet Maple Glaze are a must-try recipe for anyone who loves the flavors of fall. They’re simple to make, healthier than traditional fried donuts, and bursting with warm spices and sweet maple goodness. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply want a comforting treat, these donuts are sure to delight.
Q&A
Q1: Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
A1: Yes, you can bake the donuts a day ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Glaze them just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Q2: Can I freeze these donuts?
A2: Yes, you can freeze the unglazed donuts. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving.
Q3: Can I use a different type of milk for the glaze?
A3: Yes, you can use any type of milk you prefer, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Just add it a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Q4: Can I add chocolate chips to the donut batter?
A4: Absolutely! Adding 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter would be a delicious addition.
Q5: What if I don’t have a donut pan?
A5: If you don’t have a donut pan, you can bake the batter in muffin tins. Fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
