Pumpkin Donuts: A Fall-Inspired Indulgence
Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, pillowy donut, still warm from the fryer, with just the right amount of spice and a glaze that drips down your fingers. Pumpkin donuts are not just another dessert; they’re a sensory experience that captures the essence of fall, making them an irresistible treat. Whether you’re reminiscing about cozy weekends spent with family or creating new memories with your kids, this recipe brings comfort and joy to each bite. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, making them a perfect weekend project or a delightful after-school snack!
What’s Your Favorite Indulgent Treat?
Do you remember the last time you treated yourself to something utterly delightful? Maybe it was a warm cup of cocoa on a chilly night or a slice of cake that made your day just a bit brighter. Now, close your eyes and imagine the sweet aroma of spices and sugar wafting through your kitchen as you indulge in these homemade pumpkin donuts. What sweet memories do these delectable donuts evoke for you?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These pumpkin donuts are more than just delicious; they offer a multitude of benefits that make them a must-try.
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Easy Prep: You can whip these up in no time, making them ideal for even novice bakers.
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Nostalgic Comfort: Each donut is reminiscent of autumn afternoons spent with family, making them perfect for sharing.
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Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike can’t resist these sweet treats!
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Minimal Ingredients: Simple pantry staples come together to create an indulgent dessert.
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Versatile: Enjoy them plain, with a glaze, or topped with your favorite sprinkles!
Ingredients
To make mouthwatering pumpkin donuts, you’ll need the following ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering that luscious taste and texture.
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3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for that perfect donut.
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1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness that balances the spices.
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4 teaspoons baking powder: The secret to that fluffy rise.
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2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice: Adds a warm, cozy flavor profile.
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1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors.
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1 cup pure pumpkin: The heart of this recipe, bringing moisture and flavor.
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1/2 cup buttermilk, at room temperature: Ensures a tender donut.
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2 large eggs, at room temperature: For richness and binding.
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds a rich, buttery flavor.
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract: A hint of sweetness.
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Canola oil for frying: Ensures a crispy exterior.
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2 cups confectioners’ sugar: For the luscious glaze.
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2 teaspoons cinnamon: A classic spice that rounds out the flavor.
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2 tablespoons pure maple syrup: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth.
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2 to 4 tablespoons whole milk, at room temperature: Achieves the desired glaze consistency.
Each ingredient brings its charm, creating a symphony of flavors that dances on your tongue!
Timing
If you’re looking for a quick and indulgent treat, these pumpkin donuts are perfect for you! The entire process, from mixing to frying, takes about an hour, making them an excellent option for a last-minute company or an impromptu snack.
On the other hand, if you want to savor the process, take your time to enjoy the mixing and frying. The slow, luxurious cooking might just be the therapeutic escape you need in your busy day.
Step-by-Step
Creating your very own pumpkin donuts is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps for that perfect, golden, fried treat.
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Prepare three baking sheets: Line one with parchment paper, one with paper towels, and set the third with a wire rack.
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Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined.
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Prep wet ingredients: In a second bowl, whisk together pumpkin, buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir by hand until you achieve a well-combined dough.
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Roll it out: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and roll out to about 1/2 inch thickness, flouring as needed.
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Cut out donuts: Use a donut cutter or a round tool to cut out shapes from the dough and place them on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Prepare the glaze: In a medium to large bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, maple syrup, and milk until smooth, adjusting the milk for desired consistency.
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Heat oil: In a large pot or deep fryer, heat 2 to 3 inches of canola oil to 350 degrees F.
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Fry donuts: Fry 2 to 3 donuts at a time for 45 seconds to 1 minute, flipping until both sides are golden brown.
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Drain: Remove the donuts from oil and set them on a paper towel-lined pan to absorb excess oil.
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Glaze them: While still warm, submerge one side of each donut into the glaze, lift, and let it drain before moving to the wire rack to set.
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Storage: Store your donuts between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container for up to two days, although they’re best eaten fresh!
Just imagine the gooey glaze coating each donut and the warm spices enveloping your senses—absolute perfection!
Nutritional Information
Each pumpkin donut contains approximately 200 calories, making them a delectable indulgence. While it’s okay to treat yourself occasionally, offering these to guests will make any gathering memorable.
Healthier Alternatives
For those looking to lighten things up a bit, consider the following alternatives:
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Low-Sugar Swaps: Use a sugar substitute or reduce the sugar content to your taste.
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Dairy-Free Options: Substitute buttermilk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter.
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Whole Wheat Flour: Swap half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added nutrition!
These adjustments ensure you can still enjoy the glorious flavor of pumpkin donuts without the guilt.
Serving Suggestions
These pumpkin donuts are versatile enough to serve in various delightful ways.
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For a cozy autumn dessert, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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They make for a charming addition to your Thanksgiving dessert table, ensuring that everyone leaves with a smile!
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Serve them alongside warm cider for an ultimate fall experience.
Common Mistakes
While making these delicious pumpkin donuts, keep an eye out for these potential pitfalls:
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Overbaking: Fry until golden, as donuts will continue to cook slightly after you remove them from the oil.
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Texture Issues: Avoid overmixing the dough, which can lead to dense donuts.
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Messy Frying: Maintain the correct oil temperature for even cooking.
With a little attention, you’ll be making perfect pumpkin donuts every time!
Storing Tips
To prolong the life of your delightful pumpkin donuts, follow these tips:
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Freezing Portions: Flash freeze cooled donuts before storing them in an airtight container for up to a month.
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Reheating Instructions: For the best experience, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes. This ensures they remain soft and retain their delicious glaze.
Tempted to Bake Some Pumpkin Donuts?
Are you ready to get your hands doughy and create a batch of these fantastic pumpkin donuts? Delight your loved ones with a warm, spicy treat that embodies the flavors of fall. The nostalgia, warmth, and comfort of these donuts are just waiting for you to bring them to life in your kitchen. Don’t wait—start whisking today!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes! Although all-purpose flour is recommended, whole wheat or gluten-free flour can work too with some adjustments.
2. How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
A good test is to drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
3. Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
While they are best enjoyed fresh, they can be made a day in advance and stored properly for optimal flavor.
4. Is it possible to bake these donuts instead of frying?
Yes! You can bake them at 350°F for around 15-20 minutes, but keep in mind they won’t have the same crispy texture as fried donuts.
5. What’s the best way to store leftover donuts?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze them for later enjoyment.
Let the sweet aroma of pumpkin and spices waft through your kitchen as you embark on this delightful donut-making adventure!
Print
Pumpkin Donuts
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in soft, pillowy pumpkin donuts with a warm spice and luscious glaze, capturing the essence of fall.
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup pure pumpkin
- 1/2 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Canola oil for frying
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 to 4 tablespoons whole milk, at room temperature
Instructions
- Prepare three baking sheets: Line one with parchment paper, one with paper towels, and set the third with a wire rack.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined.
- Prep wet ingredients: In a second bowl, whisk together pumpkin, buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir by hand until you achieve a well-combined dough.
- Roll it out: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and roll out to about 1/2 inch thickness, flouring as needed.
- Cut out donuts: Use a donut cutter or a round tool to cut out shapes from the dough and place them on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Prepare the glaze: In a medium to large bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, maple syrup, and milk until smooth, adjusting the milk for desired consistency.
- Heat oil: In a large pot or deep fryer, heat 2 to 3 inches of canola oil to 350 degrees F.
- Fry donuts: Fry 2 to 3 donuts at a time for 45 seconds to 1 minute, flipping until both sides are golden brown.
- Drain: Remove the donuts from oil and set them on a paper towel-lined pan to absorb excess oil.
- Glaze them: While still warm, submerge one side of each donut into the glaze, lift, and let it drain before moving to the wire rack to set.
Notes
Store your donuts between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container for up to two days, although they’re best eaten fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
