Intro
There’s something about cooler mornings and the scent of cinnamon in the air that brings comfort straight to your soul. That’s exactly where these easy baked pumpkin donuts come in. Soft, fluffy, warmly spiced, and coated with sweet cinnamon sugar—each bite feels like a cozy sweater hug. This recipe isn’t fussy or complicated. You won’t need fancy equipment or hours of prep time. Just a mixing bowl, a donut pan, and a craving for something delicious. Whether you’re a pumpkin spice loyalist or just curious, these donuts are the perfect introduction. Let’s bake comfort—one easy bite at a time.
Why You’ll Love These Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Quick & fuss-free, even for beginners
Baking doesn’t have to be intimidating. These easy baked pumpkin donuts require just two bowls, one donut pan, and no mixer. That’s right—you can whip them up with a simple whisk and a spatula. With just 15 minutes of baking time, these are perfect for weekend brunches, weekday snacks, or lazy Sunday cravings. Unlike deep-fried donuts, these are lighter, cleaner, and way less messy. You don’t need a candy thermometer or gallons of oil—just a few pantry staples and a love for pumpkin treats.
The base of the donut is made with smooth pumpkin purée, giving them a naturally moist texture and deep autumn flavor. When combined with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin pie spice, the flavor sings with nostalgic notes of fall. The best part? You probably already have these ingredients in your kitchen.
Healthier than traditional donuts
Sure, donuts are still a treat—but these baked pumpkin donuts skip the deep frying. That means less fat and grease while still delivering on texture and flavor. They’re baked until golden and soft, and then brushed with a little butter before getting rolled in cinnamon sugar. You get all the indulgent vibes with a fraction of the heaviness.
Even better, the use of pumpkin adds a subtle nutritional boost—think beta carotene, fiber, and natural sweetness. If you’re watching your intake or baking for kids, these make a better option than store-bought or fried varieties.
They store well too, making them ideal for meal prep or sharing.
Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Ingredients
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ▢¼ cup milk
- ▢¼ cup vegetable oil
- ▢1 cup all purpose flour
- ▢½ cup brown sugar
- ▢1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ▢1 teaspoon baking powder
- ▢½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ▢¼ teaspoon salt
- ▢¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ▢Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ▢⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ▢2 tablespoons butter melted
- ▢1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350ºF and spray a donut pan with non-stick cooking spray. Set it aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk.
- In a smaller bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a spatula until just combined.
- Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a ziplock bag with the corner cut off. Pipe the batter into each donut cavity, dividing it evenly among the six donuts.
- Bake for 15-16 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Flip the pan upside down to release the donuts onto a cooling rack and let them cool for at least 10 more minutes.
- For the cinnamon sugar coating, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the microwave. Use a pastry brush to coat the cooled donuts with melted butter, or quickly dip each side of the donut in the butter if you don’t have a brush.
- Combine the cinnamon sugar mixture in a bowl. Place each donut in the sugar mixture, flipping to coat both sides.
Ingredients & Step-by-Step Method for Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Simple ingredients, pantry-friendly
One of the best things about this recipe? You likely have everything you need already. These easy baked pumpkin donuts come together with a short list of wholesome ingredients, no weird additives or specialty products. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pumpkin puree | ½ cup |
| Milk | ¼ cup |
| Vegetable oil | ¼ cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup |
| Pumpkin pie spice | 1 tsp |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
| Ground cinnamon | ½ tsp + 1 tsp (for coating) |
| Salt | ¼ tsp |
| Nutmeg | ¼ tsp |
| Granulated sugar (for coating) | ⅓ cup |
| Butter, melted (for coating) | 2 tbsp |
There are no eggs in this recipe, making it suitable for some dietary needs without compromising texture or flavor.
Easy baked pumpkin donut method
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and lightly greasing a standard donut pan. In one bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, milk, and oil until smooth. In another, mix flour, baking powder, spices, and salt.
Gradually fold the dry mix into the wet using a spatula—don’t overmix. Transfer the batter into a piping bag (or a zip-top bag with the corner cut), then fill the donut molds evenly. Bake for about 15–16 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool the donuts in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a rack and let them finish cooling. For the coating, brush or dip each donut in melted butter, then roll them in a cinnamon sugar mixture for that perfect crunchy finish.
Creative Variations & Smart Storage Tips
Fun ways to customize your pumpkin donuts
Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, the real fun begins—customizing your easy baked pumpkin donuts. These donuts are incredibly versatile, and a few small tweaks can take them in a whole new direction.
Love chocolate? Toss a handful of mini chocolate chips into the batter before baking. The warm spices and gooey chocolate melt together beautifully.
Craving crunch? Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts for texture and a nutty twist.
Need extra sweetness? Drizzle with a simple maple glaze made from powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of milk.
If you’re dairy-free, you can swap the milk for oat or almond milk, and use vegan butter or coconut oil for the coating. Prefer less sugar? Skip the cinnamon sugar coating and dust with a little powdered sugar or eat them plain—they’re still flavorful.
Another crowd-pleaser? Dip the tops in a cream cheese glaze for a bakery-style look. The tangy glaze complements the pumpkin spice base perfectly. These donuts adapt to your pantry and your preferences, which makes them ideal for experimenting all year long—not just in the fall.
Storing & reheating made easy
Fresh-baked donuts are best enjoyed the same day, but these baked pumpkin beauties hold up well for several days. Once completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep the sugar coating crisp, separate layers with parchment paper.
Want to extend their life? Pop them in the fridge for up to 5 days, though they may lose a bit of their fluffy texture. For longer storage, freeze the plain (uncoated) donuts. Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for 2 months.
When you’re ready to eat, defrost at room temp or warm briefly in the microwave. Add the butter and cinnamon sugar coating after reheating for that fresh-baked feel. It’s the perfect trick to have homemade treats ready anytime cravings strike.
When & How to Serve Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Perfect for every season—not just fall
Pumpkin often gets labeled a fall-only ingredient, but these easy baked pumpkin donuts prove it belongs all year round. Yes, they’re ideal for crisp October mornings, cozy Thanksgiving brunches, and Halloween dessert spreads—but don’t box them in.
They make a thoughtful addition to baby showers, back-to-school breakfasts, weekend brunches, or even casual coffee catchups. Their soft, spiced texture pairs beautifully with hot drinks—think spiced chai, dark roast coffee, or a homemade latte.
Since the recipe is quick and doesn’t require yeast, it’s also a fun weekend activity with kids. Let them help mix the batter or dip the cooled donuts in cinnamon sugar—it’s messy, delicious fun. If you’re planning a DIY donut bar, these make the perfect base. Set out glazes, sprinkles, and toppings so guests can decorate their own.
Whether you’re hosting or just treating yourself, these donuts deliver comfort in every bite.
Serving suggestions & pairing ideas
Serve these pumpkin donuts warm, fresh from the oven, or give them a slight reheat before serving to bring out that just-baked softness. They’re already flavorful, but a drizzle of cream cheese glaze, a touch of maple syrup, or a spoonful of whipped cream takes things up a notch.
Hosting brunch? Stack them on a tiered tray with mini quiches and fresh fruit. For dessert, serve with vanilla ice cream and a dash of caramel sauce. Want to keep it simple? Just pair one with a hot mug of coffee or tea and enjoy it slowly.
These donuts also make wonderful edible gifts. Wrap a few in wax paper, tuck them into a kraft bakery box or tin, and tie with twine. Share them with neighbors, teachers, or friends who need a little sweet moment in their day.
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts
1. Can I make baked pumpkin donuts without a donut pan?
Yes! If you don’t have a donut pan, you can pipe the batter into a muffin tin using parchment paper rings in the center to mimic the donut hole. Another option is to bake them as mini muffins—they’ll still have the same flavor and soft texture, just without the classic donut shape.
2. Are baked pumpkin donuts healthier than fried?
Absolutely. Baked donuts skip the oil bath, which drastically reduces fat and calories. These donuts are made with pumpkin purée for added moisture and nutrients, plus no eggs, making them a slightly lighter option. You still get that indulgent taste—just with a healthier twist.
3. Can I freeze baked pumpkin donuts?
Yes, but freeze them before adding the cinnamon sugar coating. Let them cool completely, wrap individually in plastic, then place in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and warm slightly. Then dip in melted butter and coat with cinnamon sugar for that fresh-from-the-oven finish.
4. What’s the best way to store baked pumpkin donuts?
Store cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re using the cinnamon sugar coating, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. For longer storage, refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze uncoated donuts for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
Easy baked pumpkin donuts are proof that simple ingredients and a little time can produce something truly special. Soft, warmly spiced, and coated in cinnamon sugar—they deliver everything you love about fall flavors in one tidy circle. Whether you’re baking a quick weekend treat, prepping for a cozy brunch, or surprising the kids with an after-school snack, these donuts fit the bill.
You don’t need a mixer, fryer, or even eggs—just a bowl, a donut pan, and the willingness to get just a little messy. Once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen—not just in October, but all year round.
