The cozy essence of fall is captured in these baked pumpkin spice donuts — soft, moist, and bursting with the perfect blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. They’re a healthier alternative to fried donuts without compromising on flavor, making them ideal for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Whether you’re welcoming guests or simply treating yourself, these donuts bring autumn vibes right to your kitchen. Easy to prepare and perfect with a cup of coffee or tea, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite that you’ll bake again and again.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
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½ teaspoon ground ginger
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¼ teaspoon ground cloves
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¼ teaspoon salt
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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½ cup canned pumpkin puree
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½ cup whole milk
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves), and salt. Set aside.
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In a large bowl, beat the sugar and egg until well combined. Add the pumpkin puree, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts tender.
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Spoon or pipe the batter evenly into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the donut comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Optional: Dust with powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or glaze with a simple vanilla icing for extra sweetness.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 190 kcal per donut | Servings: 12 donuts
Why Baking Instead of Frying Matters
One of the standout features of these pumpkin spice donuts is that they are baked instead of fried. Traditional donuts are deep-fried, which contributes to their classic crispy exterior and tender interior but also adds significant calories and fat. Baking offers a cleaner alternative by reducing oil content and making the donuts less greasy, which appeals to health-conscious bakers.
Baked donuts maintain a soft, cakey texture that highlights the moistness of pumpkin and the balance of spices without feeling heavy. Additionally, baking allows for easier preparation and cleanup, since there’s no need to handle hot oil. It’s a more approachable method for home bakers who want to enjoy the indulgence of donuts without the extra effort or mess.
The Magic of Pumpkin and Spices
Pumpkin puree is the star ingredient, contributing moisture, subtle sweetness, and a beautiful natural color. Beyond its taste, pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious addition to these treats. It pairs perfectly with classic fall spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves — each bringing unique notes that complement the pumpkin’s mild earthiness.
Cinnamon adds warmth and a hint of sweetness, nutmeg offers a subtle nuttiness with a slightly sweet aroma, ginger provides a mild zing and freshness, and cloves introduce a deep, almost smoky undertone. Together, these spices create the familiar and beloved “pumpkin spice” flavor profile that defines this recipe.
Versatility and Customization
One of the great things about baked pumpkin spice donuts is their versatility. The recipe can be easily adjusted to suit various dietary needs or flavor preferences. For example, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends to make the donuts gluten-free. Vegan versions can be created by replacing the egg with flaxseed or chia seed gel and using plant-based milk and butter alternatives.
You can also experiment with toppings and glazes. A simple dusting of cinnamon sugar adds a touch of crunch and extra spice, while a classic vanilla glaze or cream cheese frosting can elevate the donuts to a more indulgent treat. Adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts inside the batter or as a topping can provide a delightful textural contrast.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These pumpkin spice donuts are incredibly adaptable, making them suitable for various occasions. They make a festive addition to fall parties, Halloween gatherings, or Thanksgiving brunch spreads. Because they can be baked ahead of time and stored well in an airtight container, they’re convenient for busy mornings or quick snacks throughout the week.
Their inviting aroma and appealing appearance also make them a thoughtful homemade gift during the holiday season. Wrapped in a pretty box or tin, they convey warmth and care, perfect for friends, family, or coworkers.
Tips for the Best Donuts Every Time
For the best results, be sure not to overmix the batter — mixing just until the ingredients come together will keep the donuts tender and prevent them from becoming dense. Use fresh spices for maximum flavor impact. If you don’t have all the traditional pumpkin spice ingredients, premixed pumpkin spice blends from the store work wonderfully as well.
Using canned pumpkin puree is the most convenient choice and ensures a smooth texture, but homemade pumpkin puree from roasted pumpkin can add an even richer flavor if you have the time. Always grease your donut pan well or use a non-stick spray to prevent sticking, and allow the donuts to cool fully before removing them to keep their shape intact.
Nutritional Benefits
While donuts aren’t traditionally known for being health foods, these baked pumpkin spice donuts do offer some nutritional benefits. The inclusion of pumpkin adds fiber and important micronutrients such as vitamin A, which supports eye health and the immune system. The spices themselves contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
By baking instead of frying, these donuts have less fat and fewer calories compared to classic donuts, making them a better choice if you want a seasonal treat without overindulgence. Of course, moderation is key, but they provide a balanced way to enjoy the flavors of fall.
Conclusion
Baked pumpkin spice donuts are a delightful celebration of autumn’s best flavors wrapped in a soft, tender, and lightly spiced package. They offer the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition, making them suitable for a wide audience—from families looking for a wholesome breakfast option to dessert lovers craving a seasonal sweet. Their ease of preparation, customizable nature, and ability to evoke warm memories and cozy feelings make them a recipe worth adding to your seasonal baking repertoire.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, these donuts deliver impressive flavor and texture with minimal fuss. So this fall, bring the comforting aroma of pumpkin spice into your kitchen and enjoy a batch of these baked delights with your favorite cup of coffee or tea. They’re sure to become a beloved classic in your home, season after season.