Pumpkin donuts are the ideal treat to embrace the fall season. Fluffy, soft, and full of pumpkin spice flavor, these healthy baked pumpkin donuts are an easy-to-make delight. Gluten-free and only 150 calories per serving, they’re perfect for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt. Whether you’re enjoying them with a hot cup of coffee or sharing with friends and family, these pumpkin donuts are sure to be a hit!
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Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Donuts
Pumpkin donuts are an irresistible autumn dessert that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. What makes this recipe so special is its ease and versatility. These donuts are baked, not fried, so they’re a healthier option without compromising on taste. Plus, the fluffy texture and light cinnamon sugar coating make every bite melt in your mouth. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a festive dessert, they’re loved by kids and adults alike!
Ingredients for These Delicious Pumpkin Donuts
To make these pumpkin donuts, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create the perfect fall treat. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients:
• Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and helps keep these donuts light and airy.
• Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture and that signature pumpkin flavor.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar gives the donuts their sweet taste.
• Eggs: Four large eggs help bind the ingredients together, providing a rich texture.
• Coconut Oil: A healthier fat substitute for butter, making these donuts lighter.
• Baking Powder: Helps the donuts rise, giving them a light and fluffy texture.
• Cornstarch: Contributes to a soft, cake-like texture in each bite.
• Spices (Pumpkin Pie Spice, Cinnamon, Nutmeg): These spices give the donuts their warm, comforting fall flavor.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Butter (Optional): For brushing on the donuts before coating them in cinnamon sugar, adding extra richness.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you don’t have pumpkin puree, you can substitute it with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt. While this will change the flavor slightly, the donuts will still be delicious! For a more indulgent treat, add chocolate chips or chopped pecans to the batter before baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Pumpkin Donuts
Follow these simple steps to make your pumpkin donuts:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your donut pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, eggs, sugar, pumpkin puree, spices, salt, and baking powder. Mix until smooth.
- Add in the gluten-free flour and cornstarch. Stir until the batter is thick but smooth.
- Fill each donut cavity about ¾ full with the batter. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for precision.
- Bake the donuts in the preheated oven for 15-17 minutes, or until the tops are puffed up and lightly golden brown.
- Let the donuts cool for a few minutes, then prepare the cinnamon-sugar topping by mixing sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Gently remove the donuts from the pan and roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Optionally, brush each donut with melted butter before coating them for extra flavor.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Pumpkin Donuts
To ensure your donuts come out light and fluffy, be sure not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can cause the donuts to become dense and gummy. Also, don’t forget to grease the donut pan well to prevent sticking. Let the coconut oil cool slightly before adding it to the mixture, as this helps prevent the eggs from scrambling.
If you want a more decadent treat, you can brush the donuts with melted butter before coating them in cinnamon sugar.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
These pumpkin donuts pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a warm chai latte. For a twist, try serving them with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re feeling adventurous, add some chocolate chips, nuts, or even a dash of caramel to the batter.
If you’re planning ahead, these donuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just be sure to wait until they’re fully cooled before storing them to keep them fresh!
Why Pumpkin Donuts Are the Perfect Fall Treat
Pumpkin donuts aren’t just a treat; they capture the essence of fall with their warm spices and comforting flavors. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or just enjoying a quiet morning at home, these gluten-free pumpkin donuts are a must-try. They’re light, fluffy, and satisfy your pumpkin craving without all the extra calories. And with their simple ingredients, you can make them in under 30 minutes!
Enjoy these pumpkin donuts as part of your seasonal traditions. They’ll quickly become a family favorite!
Conclusion: Why These Pumpkin Donuts Are a Must-Try
These baked pumpkin donuts are a delightful and healthier take on a fall favorite. With their soft and fluffy texture, spiced flavor, and gluten-free goodness, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a sweet morning treat or looking for a fun fall recipe to share with loved ones, these pumpkin donuts won’t disappoint. Easy to make and full of autumn flavors, they’re sure to become a staple in your fall baking repertoire!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free flour for these pumpkin donuts?
Yes, you can substitute regular all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour if you’re not following a gluten-free diet. However, this will affect the recipe’s gluten-free benefits, so be sure to use an equal amount of regular flour as the gluten-free alternative in the recipe.
How can I store leftover pumpkin donuts?
Store any leftover pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, you can refrigerate them, though the texture may change slightly. It’s best to coat them in cinnamon sugar when serving them fresh.
Can I freeze pumpkin donuts for later?
These pumpkin donuts do not freeze well, as the texture can become too soggy once thawed. It’s best to enjoy them fresh, but you can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days for an easy snack later in the week.
More Relevant Recipes
- Soft Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies: A Delicious Fall Treat
- Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Apple Cider Butter Sauce: A Perfect Fall Delight
- Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies: The Ultimate Fall Treat
Pumpkin Donuts
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 13 donuts 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These gluten-free baked pumpkin donuts are a healthy, fluffy fall treat, ready in 30 minutes. With a light and soft texture, these donuts are full of delicious pumpkin spice flavor and coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar topping. Perfect for breakfast or as a seasonal snack, these donuts are easy to make and loved by everyone!
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups canned pumpkin puree – Adds moisture and flavor
- 4 large eggs (room temperature) – Provides structure and richness
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil – A healthier fat option
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the donuts
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the donuts rise
- 1.5 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice – Adds warm fall flavor
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Enhances the spice profile
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Complements the cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness
- 1 + ¾ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour – Provides structure without gluten
- ½ teaspoon cornstarch – Contributes to the soft, cakey texture
- Butter (optional) – Used to brush on the donuts before coating in cinnamon sugar for extra richness
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your donut pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted coconut oil, eggs, sugar, pumpkin puree, spices, salt, and baking powder. Mix until smooth.
- Add gluten-free flour and cornstarch to the mixture. Stir until the batter is thick but smooth.
- Fill the donut cavities about ¾ full with the batter. You can use a spoon or piping bag to add the batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-17 minutes, or until the tops are puffed up and golden brown.
- Let the donuts cool for 2-3 minutes, then prepare the cinnamon-sugar topping by mixing sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Carefully remove the donuts from the pan and coat them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Optionally, brush each donut with melted butter before coating for extra flavor.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter, as this can make the donuts dense.
- Grease the donut pan well to ensure the donuts come out easily after baking.
- Allow the coconut oil to cool slightly before adding it to the batter.
- For added richness, brush the donuts with melted butter before coating them in cinnamon sugar.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-17 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
