I can’t believe it’s pumpkin season again! I absolutely adore this time of year, when the air gets crisp, the leaves begin to change, and the scent of baked goods fills my home. There’s something incredibly cozy about making Baked Pumpkin Cake Donuts, and every time I whip up a batch, it reminds me of the fall mornings spent at my grandmother’s kitchen, where the air was filled with playful laughter and delicious aromas.
These donuts are the perfect blend of moist pumpkin goodness and warm spices that wrap you in a delicious hug. They are so easy to make that even the youngest members of the family can help out! Plus, the fact that they’re baked means less guilt when I grab a second (or maybe third?) one!
Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!
What’s in Baked Pumpkin Cake Donuts?
Pumpkin Puree: The star of the show! This creamy ingredient adds moisture and a lovely, rich flavor that’s undeniably autumnal. I love using canned pumpkin puree for convenience, but if you have fresh pumpkin, you can roast and blend it yourself!
Flour: All-purpose flour is what creates the structure in our donuts. It’s the foundation for that delightful texture we all crave.
Sugar: A sweet touch to balance the spices and pumpkin! You can use white sugar or even brown sugar if you prefer a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
Baking Powder: This little powerhouse is essential for helping our donuts rise and become fluffy.
Cinnamon: No fall treat is complete without the warm, comforting essence of cinnamon. It adds a lovely aromatic experience with every bite!
Nutmeg: Just a pinch of this spice adds a hint of warmth and depth. Trust me, it enhances the flavor beautifully!
Milk: Whether you use whole, almond, or oat milk, it will help create a smooth batter and keep things moist.
Eggs: These act as the binding agent, helping everything hold together while also adding richness.
Is Baked Pumpkin Cake Donuts Good for You?
Oh, let’s be real. These donuts are definitely a treat! But they have some redeeming qualities too. We’re talking about the health benefits of pumpkin itself.
Pumpkin Puree: It’s low in calories and packed with nutrients like Vitamin A and fiber, which can aid in digestion and is good for your eyesight. That’s right, a donut that cares about your eyes!
Cinnamon: This spice is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels. Who knew a sprinkle of spice could do so much good?
However, with sugar and flour involved, they shouldn’t be something you eat every day. Moderation is key, but trust me, these Baked Pumpkin Cake Donuts are a special treat worth savoring!
Ingredients List
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 3/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 eggs
*Servings: This recipe makes approximately 12 delicious donuts.*
How to Make Baked Pumpkin Cake Donuts?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan (you want those donuts coming out smoothly!).
2. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, and milk until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
3. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Give it a light whisk to blend the dry ingredients.
4. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until everything is just combined (don’t overmix!).
5. Pour the batter into the greased donut pan, filling each mold about 2/3 full to give them room to rise.
6. Bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center of the donuts.
7. Once done, let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Tasty Pumpkin Donuts
– If you want to make these truly irresistible, consider topping them with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
– Feeling adventurous? Try adding chocolate chips or walnuts to the batter for extra texture.
– These donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container for a couple of days, though I can’t promise they’ll last that long!
I can’t wait for you to try these scrumptious Baked Pumpkin Cake Donuts! They’re perfect for sharing with friends, family, or even for enjoying alone with a hot cup of coffee. Give it a whirl and let me know how it turns out! Happy baking, friends!
